OUTBURST AGAINST HON. JAMES ABIODUN FALEKE IS NEEDLESS, UNWARRANTED, AND DISRESPECTFUL — COMR. OLORUNHUDO SAMUEL TAIWO
Date: 8th June, 2026
The attention of concerned political stakeholders and lovers of democracy in Kogi West has been drawn to the recent public comments made by Hon. Alfred Bello against Hon. James Abiodun Faleke. While every citizen is entitled to freedom of expression and political opinion, such freedom should always be exercised with civility, maturity, and respect for constituted leadership and distinguished personalities.
Democracy flourishes where issues are debated on their merits rather than through personal attacks. It is therefore unfortunate that a matter which could have been addressed through reasoned arguments and constructive engagement degenerated into what many have perceived as unnecessary attacks on the personality of Hon. James Abiodun Faleke.
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Hon. Alfred Bello could have communicated his reservations and political position without resorting to comments capable of diminishing the dignity of a leader who has earned widespread respect through years of dedicated public service. Political disagreements are inevitable in any democratic society, but they should never become an excuse for insults, character assassination, or language that weakens the values of mutual respect and political tolerance.
With regard to the issue surrounding the candidacy of Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, it is my position that the matter should now be laid to rest. Following the APC primary election held on 18th May, 2026, Senator Sunday Steve Karimi emerged from the process and was publicly presented as the party’s candidate. As party members and supporters, our collective attention should now be directed toward strengthening unity, consolidating support, and preparing for the tasks ahead.
Rather than reopening divisions or engaging in exchanges that deepen political differences, stakeholders should embrace reconciliation and work together in the overall interest of the party and the people of Kogi West Senatorial District. Unity has always remained the strongest weapon for electoral success, and every responsible party member should contribute positively toward preserving it.
I remain optimistic about the political future of Senator Sunday Steve Karimi and firmly believe that his stewardship has made a significant impact across Kogi West. Through various constituency interventions, empowerment initiatives, developmental projects, and sustained engagement with the people, he has demonstrated commitment to effective representation. These efforts deserve objective assessment by the electorate.
As the 2027 general election approaches, I encourage the people of Kogi West to evaluate every candidate based on performance, accessibility, integrity, and commitment to public service. Where citizens are satisfied with representation, democratic participation through the ballot remains the appropriate means of expressing such confidence.
Furthermore, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke remains one of the most respected political leaders to emerge from Okunland. His contributions to democratic governance, legislative service, political mentorship, and national development have earned him admiration far beyond Kogi State. His influence and commitment to good governance have continued to inspire countless young leaders and political actors.
Respect for leaders who have contributed immensely to society should never be sacrificed on the altar of temporary political disagreements. We may hold different opinions, but our engagements must always reflect decency, maturity, and respect. Constructive criticism strengthens democracy; personal attacks weaken it.
I therefore appeal to all political stakeholders, supporters, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace peaceful engagement, avoid inflammatory rhetoric, and promote the unity necessary for continued progress. Our collective aspiration should be to build a stronger party and a more prosperous Kogi West through dialogue, mutual respect, and responsible leadership.
Let us rise above unnecessary controversies and focus on the greater objective of advancing the interests of our people. History will remember those who built bridges of unity, not those who deepened divisions.
Signed:
COMR. OLORUNHUDO SAMUEL TAIWO
Political Advocate and Social Commentator
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JULY 8TH 2026)
