By Jaiyeola Awojuola
When sometime in 2012, Architect Yomi Awoniyi was named the running mate to Captain Idris Wada, the electorate did not have to ask too many questions given the fact that the nominee is a known face in the political arena. Not only that his late father, Chief S.B Awoniyi was a politician of repute, it is also true that Yomi, his son has been active in politics. As a matter of fact, he had once made attempt to be at the senate. He is without doubt, a consummate politician.
His choice to deputise for Captain Wada therefore was seen first, as a way of injecting young blood into the system. Also, his vast political claw would help the party’s fortune. Above all, he has the intellectual capability and the exposure too. He is an inspiration to his generation and indeed, the younger generation are sure to draw inspiration from him.
Yomi Awoniyi has since his coming into office, remained an enigma; a phenomenon worthy of study. He is fittingly the right man for the job. This much, his principal has re-affirmed severally. He isn’t a wrong choice for the number two man for Kogi State.
Yomi Awoniyi and his boss stand firm in their resolve to change the sorry state of the state. They have both redefine the concept of politics, especially progressive politics, bringing humanity to the fore of politicking. Prior to the election of the duo, politics in the state was seen as an instrument to debase humanity. Political miscreants took the shine off politics but at their coming, all that has changed.
They have both built a strong wall that ensures protection for all irrespective of tribe, religion or even party affiliation. They have successful defended the masses of the state against rude tackles of those who hitherto assumed the positions of political giants.
Yomi Awoniyi has through words and actions proved a loyal lieutenant. He looks to me as somebody who would rather remain bruised trying to remain loyal to a friend and boss than be seen as a traitor. You may not like his style because he is one person that detests mediocrity but one thing you can’t possibly take away from him is the fact that he knows his job and he is not ready to compromise for the good of the majority of Kogi people. Yomi Awoniyi is an embodiment of emotion. Yomi Awoniyi is a gift to Kogi State, Nigeria and, of course, mankind.
His life this past two years, has been a life of service, commitment and absolute growth of democracy and the development of Kogi State. He has been a wonderful ‘help-meet’ to his boss. Only a few would combine brilliance with dedication, hard work and loyalty. These are the attributes that make Yomi Awoniyi unique; outstandingly unique.
One may be tempted to ask why I have chosen at this time to write on the qualities of this great son of Kogi State. The reason is not far-fetched. Recently, there was an issue over the need for Lokoja/Kotonkarfe to produce the next senator for west senatorial district. Rather than the proponents of the argument to concentrate on the matter at hand, they stood logic on the head by saying if they cannot have the senatorial seat, then, they should be given the slot of the deputy governor. Does one change a winning team?
It is true that Yomi Awoniyi was picked by virtue of the fact that the deputy governorship slot was zoned to west senatorial axis but it is equally true that his choice largely had to do with the inherent qualities of the Youngman. Should that now be sacrificed on the altar of some selfish political calculation?
What is the connection of the deputy governor’s position with a demand to have the senate zoned to Lokoja/Kotonkarfe? The question is: Has Yomi Awoniyi used his position to better the lots of Kogi people, especially those from west senatorial district?
The answer is an unequivocal yes. Has he abused his office in any way? The answer to this is no. So, why ask for his head in a matter that does not concern him?
Our political leaders in Lokoja/Kotonkarfe must be wary of being used by anybody to run down one of their best seeds-Yomi Awoniyi, an acquiescence Youngman. His crime, I know is his insistence to always do the right thing and this is largely, the problem many people who are apostles of ‘cutting corners’ have with the government of Captain Wada.
For how long must we continue to do things the wrong way? There is a new thinking in the land and this is; doing things the right way. Let’s embrace it.
