Dear Otunba Olayinka Braimoh,
I understand that this letter may come as a surprise to you, considering our regular conversations and the personal nature of its content. However, I have chosen to send it publicly in order to highlight your unique qualities and to also provide an opportunity for people, particularly politicians, to learn from your exemplary character.
Meeting you a year ago has been a true blessing, as it has had a positive impact on both my personal and political life. It is said that one’s attitude is a reflection of their true self, and I believe that sharing this message publicly is not out of place, but rather a way to further strengthen your determination to create a better world, especially for the people of Kogi state. Therefore, I urge you to continue being the person you are, as described in some of your attributes below:
1) Embracing Godliness in Place of Godfatherism
In Nigeria, having a political godfather is often seen as crucial for success, and it is extremely challenging for any candidate to win an election without such support. However, you have defied this norm and it is one of the qualities that I deeply admire in you. I still remember when you invited me to join your political movement a year ago. I was hesitant, mainly because you were new to politics and running under an unfamiliar political party. I asked you about your political godfather, and your response only strengthened my faith in you and in God. You said, “God created all of us, including those who assume the role of godfathers. Since you have direct access to God Almighty, why should you rely on a mere mortal as your political godfather?” This response was truly remarkable, as I have worked with numerous politicians who have failed to demonstrate that relying solely on God is the ultimate path to success.
2) Rewarding Treachery With Sustainable Empowerment
Throughout history, betrayal has been a common tactic in politics, utilized by traditional politicians and embraced as a strategic move by many in the field. I distinctly recall the moment we discovered that some of your political allies were actually working as spies for our opponents, aiming to undermine your political influence. I was outraged and urged for immediate action, but you calmly explained, “Musa, you must realize that these individuals are acting out of desperation due to their own hardships. A person who is self-sufficient would not resort to such measures.” You generously provided them with everything including vehicles and financial support for their families. Even after the election, when their treacherous deeds had been carried out and I contemplated seeking revenge, you once again advised, “Musa, instead of seeking vengeance, I prefer to empower these individuals in a sustainable manner, freeing them from the cycle of betrayal.” You assured me that through the implementation of your STAT Agenda, everyone in your circle (including those who had been sent by adversaries to disrupt your political movement) would be given opportunities for meaningful employment, enabling them to support their families without resorting to political or economic sabotage. This approach initially puzzled me, but your actions have since provided me with a new perspective on the realm of politics.
3) Courage in the Face of Political Assaults
During the intense onslaught of political assaults, your courage was unwavering, making your campaign impervious to attack. When I inquired about the source of your unwavering confidence, you responded, “My campaign can only be targeted if I had personal political ambitions. However, since it is a divine assignment, neither I nor my loyal supporters shall be harmed by any evil.” True to your words, we only heard of attacks happening elsewhere, while we narrowly evaded planned assaults, either occurring before our arrival or shortly after our departure. I learnt a lot from this form of unshakeable faith in God.
4) Humility in Wealth
Wealth and humility are two qualities that rarely go hand in hand. It is widely acknowledged that you possess both, which sets you apart from many others. Unfortunately, it is also a common observation that most individuals who share your financial status tend to exhibit arrogance. This arrogance is particularly evident in your political adversaries, who not only display pride but also treat their supporters with unnecessary rudeness. The dynamics between these politicians and their followers can be likened to that of a cat and a dog. Regrettably, despite the mistreatment, many of their followers find it difficult to break away due to their reliance on basic necessities otherwise known as stomach infrastructure. One such example is one of your political opponents nicknamed “Mr. Igberaga,” who has gained a reputation for insulting individuals regardless of their social standing or age. Another individual, known as “Uncle use and dump,” has made a habit of providing meager assistance during political campaigns, only to dismiss his supporters afterwards. Instead of prioritizing the welfare of the impoverished masses who contributed to his political success, he chooses to flaunt his wealth childishly on social media.
5) Forthrightness in The Face of Intimidation
When your opponent failed to uncover the sources of your political strength and their attempts to coerce you into collaboration or resignation proved futile, they resorted to spreading a malicious falsehood that you were being funded by the State Governor, Yahya Bello, causing some concern among your supporters, including myself. However, you reassured me that this was merely a battle between light and darkness, and that ultimately, truth would prevail. Thankfully, the political influence of the rumor-monger/politician has diminished, while you continue to fight in the court of law to reclaim the people’s mandate for a brighter future for Kogi State.
6) Business Insight
As a successful entrepreneur and influential figure in politics, you have emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between business and politics. While acknowledging the symbiotic relationship between the two, you have stressed the need to keep them separate. Following the unfortunate outcome of the November 11, 2023 governorship election in Kogi State, you immediately resumed work at your office, devising budgets and strategies to ensure a prosperous 2024 while others were still reeling from the injustices of the ruling party. You wisely pointed out that the funds used for your campaign were sourced from your business accounts, and it only makes sense to return to your entrepreneurial pursuits post-election in order to generate further wealth. This was indeed a great lesson for me.
These and other unmentioned aspects define who you are, and I am taking this opportunity of your birthday to pray for God to uphold them indefinitely. With these qualities, your ascension to the position of Governor of Kogi State is inevitable. The methods by which this will occur are unknown to us, but we are aware that He operates in mysterious ways beyond our comprehension. May He guide you through the political obstacles, symbolized by the red sea, to the promised land of Lugard House, where you will possess the executive authority necessary to lead us out of our current state of stagnation to our rightful position in Nigeria.
As you celebrate your birthday, I pray that your identity as Olayinka Adenehon Braimoh remains unwavering, and may the citizens of Kogi State gain a genuine comprehension of your true essence.
Áséyì sàmódún O!
Yours sincerely,
Musa Olumayowa Yakubu (Alias Songowanwa)
