It is crystal clear to the public that Otunba Olayinka Braimoh, the leader of the Action Alliance Party (AA) in Kogi State and the 2023 gubernatorial candidate of the party, is unequivocally my political leader and mentor.
However, it is important to acknowledge that I have been met with both the incumbent and former members of the House of Representatives for the Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, Hon. Salman Idris and Hon. Tajudeen Ayo Yusuf, prior to my introduction to Otunba Olayinka Braimoh.
Notably, during the 2019 general elections, the three of us—Hon. Teejay, Hon. Salman, and I—were all cleared by the PDP Screening Committee to participate in the party’s primaries for the House of Representatives, Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, the nomination eventually favoured Hon. Teejay Yusuf.
In 2022, while Hon. Teejay ran for the Kogi West Senate seat, Hon. Salman sought election for the House of Representatives, successfully won and duly declared the winner. By all standard, both of them are my political leaders, and I feel comfortable approaching them at any time.
On Thursday, November 14, I made a courtesy visit to the former three-term member of the House of Representatives for the Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, Hon. Tajudeen Ayo Yusuf, as well as the incumbent, Hon. Salman Idris, in their respective offices. Although, the visit was primarily personal, our discussions naturally expanded to encompass the political and economic development of Ijumu LGA, Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, Kogi West Senatorial District, the State, and Nigeria as a whole.
I had the opportunity to meet Hon Teejay in his business office, where we engaged in an extensive discussion regarding politics and private enterprises. With utmost humility, it is widely acknowledged that he made significant efforts during his tenure in office, ensuring that the dividends of democracy reached the constituents.
His accomplishments are far too numerous to enumerate. Furthermore, he exemplifies humility in every aspect. A key objective of my visit was to inquire about his future political aspirations. Without hesitation, he candidly expressed that his primary focus at present is on his business and family. He stated that while he is not contemplating participation in any political contests at this time, only God knows what the future holds. Should he decide to run, it would certainly not be for a position in the national assembly.
Currently, Hon Teejay is deeply involved in real estate development. Over the past year, during which he has concentrated on this venture, he has successfully managed it to the extent that he wishes he had embarked on this path several years earlier. What sets him apart is his humility, resilience in the political arena, and now, his dedication to business.
Later in the day, I had the opportunity to meet with Honorable (Arch) Salman Idris, the current Member of the House of Representatives for Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal constituency, in his office at the National Assembly. My visit was primarily personal; however, we engaged in a brief discussion regarding political matters. A few days prior to my visit, Arch Salman, as he is affectionately known, had asked me to provide the contact information of an individual of my choosing for empowerment in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
I promptly forwarded the details of someone from my ward. Within his short stay in the National Assembly, he has achieved significant milestones in contributing to society and ensuring that resources are evenly distributet to the communities under his purview.
Therefore, I was not surprised when, upon entering his office, he immediately called me, took out his phone, and began reaching out to discuss my request with those capable of facilitating it. He remained focused on this task until he received a satisfactory response, instilling in me the hope and assurance that my request would be fulfilled. Despite our affiliation with different political parties, I was welcomed warmly and attended to without delay.
Additionally, you may recall that I recently shared an empowerment video featuring Senator Natasha, which resonated deeply with the people of Kogi State and beyond. Notwithstanding his contributions so far, Arch Salman is set to bring a mother of all empowerments to Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu. Although I do not have his permission to disclose this information, it is well known that I am a proponent of good governance and am always eager to share any positive developments.
When I reflect on Hon Teejay and Arch Salman, I am invariably reminded of my principal, Otunba Olayinka. Although he is yet to hold a public office, the extent of his commendable actions for those around him during our brief acquaintance is immeasurable.
As a result, I have reached the conclusion that politicians who embody integrity and compassion, such as Otunba Olayinka Braimoh, Arch Salman Idris, and Hon Tajudeen Ayo Yusuf, will undoubtedly contribute to making the world a better place for all. It is my sincere hope that God will continue to bless, guide, and protect them in their efforts to improve our political landscape through effective governance.
*Hon Musa Olumayowa Yakubu (MOY)*
An Advocate for Good Governance.
