By Paul Ojewola
It is unfortunate that politics in Ibarapa North is gradually shifting away from what truly matters. Instead of focusing on the development of our local government and the welfare of our people, unnecessary distractions and controversies are taking center stage.
Yesterday, party stakeholders and leaders met in Ayete, the headquarters of Ibarapa North Local Government, to decide the Allied Peoples' Movement (APM) Chairmanship Flag Bearer. At the end of the meeting, seven(7) out of the ten(10) stakeholders endorsed Hon. Olubisi Akande, while three endorsed Hon. Peter Gbadegesin Ojedokun. Hon. Sefiu Rasaki received no endorsement.
Not long after Hon. Olubisi Akande was declared the party's flag bearer, conflicting information began circulating on social media, with claims that Hon. Sefiu Rasaki had been endorsed by the party chairman, Hon. Olayiwola Matthew Ojoogun.
Again, this morning, another document surfaced online claiming that Hon. Peter Gbadegesin Ojedokun, a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, is the Allied Peoples' Movement candidate. The document was purportedly signed by Hon. Olayiwola Matthew Ojoogun.
Whatever our political differences may be, the development of Ibarapa North should remain our common goal. We should always stand for justice, fairness, and the truth, no matter whose interest is involved.
Ibarapa North cannot continue to grow if politics is driven by personal interests instead of the people's interests. While many other local governments are creating opportunities for younger people to serve and contribute, we should also encourage leadership that reflects the hopes and aspirations of our people.
Public office is not a lifetime entitlement. Those who have served, and those currently serving the people in various political positions, have made their contributions. It is only fair and democratic to give others with fresh ideas, energy, and commitment the opportunity to serve and move Ibarapa North forward.
I respectfully appeal to Hon. Peter Gbadegesin Ojedokun to accept the outcome of the stakeholders decision and support Hon. Olubisi Akande as the party's flag bearer in the interest of peace, unity, and the development of Ibarapa North. No one remains in the office forever, and history remembers those who place the interest of the people above personal ambition.
I also appeal to Hon. Olayiwola Ojoogun, as a respected leader and party man, to continue to uphold fairness, justice, and impartiality in carrying out the responsibility entrusted to him. Leadership demands honesty and justice will always prevail, and the truth will surely come to light. Let us all work towards leaving behind a good name and a legacy that future generations will be proud of.
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