By Tayo Aderinola, Lagos Panorama Magazine
Political undercurrents emerging from Kogi State suggest that a transformative era may be imminent — one capable of breaking the cycle of self-interest and stagnation that has long defined the state’s political landscape. For years, Kogi’s politics have been shaped by transient loyalties, personal ambitions, and a lack of developmental vision. But today, momentum appears to be shifting toward a more purposeful future — one that may once again call upon Hon. James Abiodun Faleke to lead.
Within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), growing dissatisfaction with the remnants of maladministration and political manipulation is palpable. The failed attempt by former Governor Yahaya Bello to align Governor Usman Ododo’s second-term ambition with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political influence has only deepened internal discontent, revealing widening cracks in Kogi’s power structure and exposing the waning relevance of Bello’s political machinery.
Amid this disenchantment, the “Faleke Option” is emerging as a symbol of hope.
Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, who currently represents Lagos State in the House of Representatives, remains the most formidable political figure of Kogi origin today. His record of empowerment initiatives, infrastructural projects, and community development efforts — both in Lagos and Kogi West — surpasses that of any governor since Kogi’s creation in 1991.
Faleke’s political strength lies not only in his achievements but also in his integrity. A loyal disciple of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his career is built on discipline, accountability, and compassion — qualities that have earned him widespread respect.
Many who supported the Audu-Faleke ticket nearly a decade ago still recall the painful injustice that denied Kogi a leadership built on merit and competence. That “political robbery,” as many described it, set the state on a downward spiral. Yet, as history unfolds, the architects of that injustice now grapple with the consequences of their actions, while those who stood for truth remain vindicated.
Today, the call to correct that historic wrong is growing louder across the three senatorial districts of Kogi. The people are yearning for direction — a break from personality cults and politics of self-preservation.
Rt. Hon. Faleke must now reconsider his detachment from the state’s affairs. This is not about ambition; it is about responsibility. The people of Kogi are tired of retrogression. They seek a leader with vision, empathy, and competence — qualities Faleke has consistently demonstrated.
He possesses the moral authority, political network, and cross-regional appeal needed to unite a divided state. This is not a partisan appeal, but a call to conscience — an urgent demand for leadership that prioritizes development over division.
For this transformation to succeed, all well-meaning citizens — across party lines, ethnic backgrounds, and faiths — must rally behind a shared vision of progress. Kogi’s next chapter must be defined not by recycled mediocrity but by measurable development and inclusive governance.
The winds of change are gathering strength. The time for restoration has come.
James Abiodun Faleke — it is time to return home and lead Kogi into a new era of purpose, prosperity, and progress.
