By Dr. Akinbobola Otitoju
There is something profoundly fascinating about the submarine. Beneath the vast, restless surface of the ocean, it glides quietly; unseen, unheralded, and unbothered by the noise above. It does not announce its presence with fanfare or waves; it simply moves with purpose. And when it finally emerges, it does so with precision; at the right place, at the right time, achieving the mission for which it was sent.
In many ways, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) James Abiodun Faleke reminds me of that vessel of quiet strength. In the unpredictable waters of Nigerian politics, where noise often substitutes for impact, and bluster is mistaken for brilliance; Faleke has chosen the path of strategic depth. His style is not flamboyant; it is focused. His movements are not loud; they are layered with intent. And like the submarine, his emergence always leaves a mark.
In Okunland, Faleke has been the trusted presence; working quietly, yet effectively, to advance the cause of his people even when it is not trending on social media or echoed in the news.
Despite his giant strides, Faleke has not slowed down; if anything, he has dived deeper into service. His influence has become more like that submarine; strategic and far-reaching. Without noise, he has been instrumental in securing appointments for sons and daughters of Okunland in strategic national positions. These appointments are not mere gestures; they are seeds of representation, windows of opportunity that ensure Okun voices are not lost in the corridors of power.
Those who watch the surface alone may miss his movements, but those who understand the currents beneath the political ocean know that Faleke’s hand is steady on the controls. He is the unseen engineer of opportunities, the bridge connecting competence with responsibility, loyalty with reward. Like a submarine commander, he operates from depth: mapping, planning, and acting with precision.
It is no surprise, then, that his influence extends far beyond the geography of his constituency in Ikeja. In Abuja, he is respected as a dependable team player. In Lagos, he is still the trusted ally whose loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unshaken. And in Kogi State, he is the quiet giant whose steps resound even when he walks softly.
Faleke’s strength lies in that calm focus; the discipline to wait, to plan, to build alliances, and then to act decisively when the moment comes. In a time when many seek relevance through noise, his method reminds us that true influence often thrives in silence.
When the submarine resurfaces, it is not to boast of its voyage but to fulfill its mission. Likewise, when Faleke’s efforts manifest; whether in appointments, policies, or grassroots projects, they are not self-serving declarations but outcomes of careful, deliberate work. The applause may come later, but the results speak first.
Okunland, in him, finds a representation that is not seasonal or sentimental but strategic.
Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke remains a lesson in leadership; the kind that understands timing, values silence, and prizes substance. Like the submarine, his movements may be unseen, but his impact cannot be denied. And when next he surfaces, as surely he will, may we once again feel that deep pride that comes with having him at such a time as this.
Dr. Akinbobola Otitoju writes from Abuja, Nigeria.
