In Nigerian politics, every competitive election inevitably has a winner and a loser.
Typically, after election day, everything goes smoothly and the loser congratulates the winner. However, that doesn’t always happen.
The Kogi West senatorial election was indeed an historic one owing to its transparency and quality of aspirants. As expected, that history gives us many examples of contests as hotly debated, as fiercely fought, with their own challenges to the popular will; But veteran grassrooter, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi, OBA to use his acronym, has articulatedly demonstrated “Never Say Die” spirit.
His participation alone amid sore intimidation is heroic. In his concession speech made public through his facebook page, he said and I quote “The 2019 Kogi West senatorial election have been concluded and Senator Dino Melaye declared the winner. It was a long and tortuous journey for me traversing the length and breadth of Kogi West. Our campaign strategy was well- organized, aggressive and issued based, we presented to the electorates a robust blueprint on how Kogi West would be transformed, with particular reference to industrialization and job creation, youth empowerment, and affordable quality education. The experience was worth the while but the electorates have spoken loudly of their preference, and I accept the result and hereby congratulates the winner.”
Apparently, a dauntless display of sportsmanship commendable. Our disappointment must be overcome by the love for our land. And I say to members of our community at large, let no one see this contest as a sign of weakness. The strength of democracy is shown most clearly through the difficulties it can overcome. Kogi West is for all.
Just as we fight hard when the stakes are high, we close ranks and come together when the contest is done. And while there will be time enough to debate our continuing differences, now is the time to recognize that that which unites us is greater than that which divides us.
While we yet hold and do not yield our opposing beliefs, there is a higher duty than the one we owe to political party, interest and movements. We are indeed happy to note that OBA have clearly written his name in Gold as we urge him to continue in that manner in making Okun nation and Owe land envy of all.
Today, I make bold to say that, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi merely lost an election but was not defeated.
Better days ahead.
– Balogun Emmanuel Funsho writes from Kabba, Kogi State.
He can be reached on 07034444976.
