By: Jamiu Suleiman Sakele
A few days ago, I addressed an open letter to His Excellency, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq. As a committed son of Adewole Ward, I felt the need to speak up for its progress. After numerous unfruitful efforts, I realized the vital role public discourse plays in driving change. My letter was not written out of malice but aimed at contributing to the progress of both Adewole Ward and Kwara State.
Clarifying Intentions:
Now, I must clarify certain points. Nowhere in my letter did I suggest that Adewole Ward should be prioritized at the expense of the other 192 wards in the state. On the contrary, I acknowledged the commendable work your administration has done, particularly the facilitation of low-tier federal employment opportunities and the transparent process in recruitment of around 5,000 people through SUBEB in 2021. As I said in my previous letter:
“It’s true that under your administration, some low-tier federal employment opportunities have been facilitated for the ward, and for that, we are grateful.” (Suleiman, 2024, para 3)
My intention was not to criticize you personally, but to bring attention to the issues facing Adewole Ward, particularly regarding appointments and human capital development. While it is true that I have gained some political attention recently, and various individuals have invited me to work on political projects, let me be clear: I have never lost focus on the best interests of Adewole Ward. I will never allow any politician to use me for their personal gain. I have my own political ambitions and principles. I may not have much, but no amount of money can ever compromise my integrity.
A Call for Fairness and Investment:
I remain a committed member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and continue to support you as governor, despite our occasional differences in policy and decision-making. As the saying goes, “a stomach made of glass would show the heart within.” If such transparency existed, you would see the silent frustration felt by many responsible citizens of Adewole Ward. Yes, jobs have been facilitated, but human capital development remains severely lacking. This is beyond politics, it’s about impact. I have never treated my political opposition from Adewole Ward with disdain because I understand that we are all striving to make a difference, each in our own way.
Your Excellency, I am not asking for special treatment or unearned favoritism. What I am calling for is fairness and a deeper investment in human capital. The reality is, if Adewole Ward continues to be underrepresented in leadership appointments and opportunities for advancement. no individual from Adewole can be in a position to vie for the governorship after you leave office. Your current role occupies Adewole Ward’s political slot, leaving limited room for growth.
Money and stipends are not the solution. They will never replace the lasting impact of empowering individuals through opportunities and leadership roles. Adewole Ward needs capable leaders who can stand tall, not just within the state, but beyond.
Striving for Growth:
In 2022, I contested in the APC primary elections, fully aware that my chances of securing the ticket were slim due to our shared ward and party affiliation. However, I purchased the form to demonstrate my commitment to political growth and to seek your support in advancing my leadership journey. Unfortunately, that support never materialized.
This lack of encouragement for other capable individuals from Adewole Ward is deeply disheartening. There are many promising individuals within our community actively pursuing opportunities that could greatly benefit us, yet they are not receiving the necessary backing.
The People Are Dying in Silence:
Your Excellency, you have two years remaining in your term. The people of Adewole Ward are frustrated, and I hear their concerns regularly. How long will stipends and handouts be the solution? Yes, you have undertaken some notable projects, and low-tier jobs have been plentiful, especially those facilitated through my good brother, Comrade Wahab Temidire (Aburo-Gomina). However, this does not address the core issue of human capital development. We need sustainable growth and genuine empowerment for the ward’s citizens.
I urge you to seize this opportunity to uplift the ward and leave a legacy that will be remembered not just for short-term achievements but for the long-term empowerment of Adewole’s people. Many individuals from other wards have reached out to me, questioning why I have criticized the governor, but the point remains: Adewole Ward deserves more, and we must seize this lifetime opportunity for the sake of the ward’s future.
Addressing Internal Challenges and a Warning to Dr. Wasiu Tejidini:
Dr. Wasiu Tejidini, I am aware of your recent efforts to mobilize individuals against me. It has come to my attention that you contacted people for your agenda. I commend those individuals for their integrity in informing me of your plans. In fact, I encouraged them to follow your instructions and speak out against me online, believing it might secure them an opportunity or meeting with you, which indeed occurred.
It’s ironic, Dr. Tejidini, that you, who usually ignored phone calls, suddenly reached out to them only when it suited your interests. All your promises are documented, and it highlights how unpredictable politics can be.
Let me assure you that while people may be angry, they are also observant and silent, waiting to see how things unfold. I have full knowledge of everything discussed in your clandestine meetings aimed at defaming and silencing me, even though I have never sought to cage anyone politically. This is ultimately a game of interests, and I remain committed to my political base, where the dynamics of politics are uniquely understood.
A Final Warning:
Dr. Tejidini, I must caution you: refrain from unethical political tactics, or I will respond firmly, beginning with your polling unit. This approach won’t serve our shared interests, so proceed with caution.
Addressing KWASSIP Mismanagement:
Your Excellency, it is time to critically examine the current state of KWASSIP. While the program has benefitted many, it is clear that proper processes have not been followed. Dr. Tejidini has mismanaged the initiative, distributing slots as if they were his personal wealth, favoring his cronies in the process. I have received reports from individuals claiming that syndicates are being used to exploit the program, which is unacceptable.
Furthermore, Dr. Tejidini has effectively turned the agency into an APC party secretariat rather than a safety net agency focused on addressing poverty alleviation in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). This shift undermines the program’s purpose and needs immediate reform.
A Call for Unity and Dialogue:
In conclusion, my letter and criticisms are not personal attacks but calls for necessary change. Stipends and handouts cannot replace genuine empowerment and human capital development.
I implore you to unite the youth and work with Adewole Ward stakeholders. Many suffer in silence, unheard and underserved.
Open dialogue, listen to grievances, and bring about meaningful change that will uplift Adewole Ward for generations.
As your younger counterpart from the same ward, I pledge to always speak the truth to you. Your success is our collective achievement, and I remind you that you occupy a position entrusted to us. Therefore, we cannot remain silent about your actions, as any misstep will inevitably impact our future.
May God guide you to success sir.
Sincerely,
Jamiu Suleiman Sakele
A Concerned Citizen of Adewole Ward
Reference
Suleiman, J. (2024, October 19th). Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, It’s Time to Prioritize Adewole Ward: 6 Years of Neglect, 2 Years Left. Just Event Online.
