By Dr. Akinbobola Otitoju
Across the three senatorial districts of Kogi State, the drums are beginning to sound again; softly at first, like the hum of a distant talking drum, but with a rhythm that is becoming unmistakable. The name on many lips is not new to the political vocabulary of the state. It is a name that evokes loyalty, structure, and quiet competence: Rt. Hon. (Dr.) James Abiodun Faleke.
From the hills of Okunland to the plains of Ebira and the banks of the Niger, the call is gaining momentum; an appeal to Faleke to contest the governorship seat in the next election cycle. Those who make this call are not faceless voices. They are everyday citizens who believe that Kogi can and should do better. To them, Faleke represents the missing piece in the state’s pursuit of effective governance; tested, trusted, and true to his word.
Yet, not everyone sees it that way. Some have described this groundswell as a distraction, an unnecessary noise that could unsettle the cordial relationship between Hon. Faleke and the incumbent governor. They insist that the current administration is doing a fair job and that the state needs stability, not another political battle. They warn that politics, if not handled delicately, can turn friends into rivals and progress into paralysis.
But others see the matter differently. They believe the call is not born of mischief but of necessity. They point to Faleke’s record; his reach, his resourcefulness, and his rare ability to deliver results even when the odds are steep. They remember how, though representing Ikeja in Lagos, he has continued to touch lives across Kogi State through empowerment programs, infrastructural support, and political inclusion. They recall how his name has opened doors for sons and daughters of Okunland in strategic positions, quietly restoring a sense of belonging long eroded by years of uneven representation.
Kogi has battled the consequences of leadership that often puts self above service for years. Many believe the state now needs a steward who understands both governance and humanity; one whose strength lies not in rhetoric but in results.
So, is the call valid? Yes, it is. The people have every right to desire better; better governance, better accountability, better hope. The question, though, is whether Faleke will answer this time. History reminds us that he was called during the last election cycle, but he declined, preferring to focus on his legislative duties and his unwavering loyalty to the leadership structure he helped build.
However, the yearning of the people is loud enough to be heard beyond the boundaries of the state. The people are preparing their tears of joy in advance, waiting to see whether their call will finally be answered.
Although, politics is often described as the art of timing; knowing when to step forward and when to wait. Faleke has mastered both arts. He is not one to be stampeded by sentiment or distracted by flattery. But even the most cautious man must, at some point, acknowledge when destiny’s rhythm aligns with the will of the people.
Today, that rhythm is unmistakable in Kogi. Friends and foes alike are watching closely, some with hope, others with apprehension, but all united by curiosity about what Faleke will do next. Whether he steps forward or chooses to wait again, one thing remains clear: the people have spoken, and their message is as old as democracy itself; when leadership calls, silence is never an answer.
Dr. Akinbobola Otitoju writes from Abuja, Nigeria.
