Hon. (Elder) Leke Abejide has become a household name in Kogi politics, and his popularity comes from two distinct sources.
On one hand, he is widely respected and reputed for his performance as the Member of the House of Representatives for Yagba Federal Constituency. His record spans across education, road infrastructure, community development, and welfare programs for the aged and widows. These achievements have earned him loyal supporters.
However, some people argue that Elder Leke’s developmental agenda is overwhelmingly concentrated in his immediate community leaving other parts of his Constituency with only token benefits. The most neglected, according to his detractors, is Mopamuro, where there is no notable or tangible projects to his credit. While his community boasts billion-naira tarred road projects, Mopamuro’s best was a poorly executed attempt on Oroke Road.
When questioned, Elder Leke’s stock response has always been that Mopamuro has no significant voting power to influence elections. In inessence, this means that he focuses on development where huge votes are guaranteed.
The Second Face of His Popularity is his numerous fights. Beyond his projects, Elder Leke is also famouso for his numerous political battles. Currently, he is engaged in not less than five major political wars, each running simultaneously:
a. *Inter-Party War* (Faction vs. Coalition) Within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), his faction is locked in a bitter struggle against the Coalition.
b *Intra-Party War* (Representative vs. Party Leadership) – This is a fight over control of the party machinery. The conflict has seen expulsions, counter-expulsions, and counter-counter expulsions. The looming question: Who truly controls the party—the elected representative or the party executives?
c. *Indigenes vs. Settlers Battle* – This is perhaps fiercer than the well-known Jos Plateau dispute. Leke claims ownership of the party, but some say he is merely a “settler” trying to evict the “landlords.” While it is true he has invested heavily in the party, his opponents insist that without the party’s original structure, there would have been nothing to build upon.
d. *Legal War with a Former Loyalist –* In a dramatic fallout, Elder Leke is in court with Hon. Yomi Oloke, his former media strategist and staunch supporter. He now accused him of certain infractions. Leke’s decision to push for his imprisonment marks a political first in Yagba history. Many believe politics demands tolerance, and that those unable to absorb insults should stay away.
e. *The “Mopamuro Lokan” Showdown –* This is the “mother of all battles.” The people of Mopamuro (excluding Leke’s contractors and welfare seekers) are openly opposing his third-term bid, declaring “Mopamuro Lokan” (“It’s Mopamuro’s turn”). This challenge is shaking the political table of the Yagba Federal Constituency.
Why is Hon Leke getting involved in So Many Battles at the same time? There are numerous different opinions on Elder Leke’s motivation. Here are some theories of his fights:
a. *The Third Term Agenda Theory.* Some believe his fights aim to position him for a third-term ticket, possibly in the APC, as compensation after weakening the ADC.
b. *The Attention Seeking Strategy* – Others think the battles are simply to keep him in the political spotlight.
c. *The “Wike Playbook”* Theory – This camp suggests he is copying Wike’s style. This is to gain overwhelming control of two parties, weaken one (ADC), then switch to the other (APC) to clinch the desired ticket. Whether this strategy will work remains uncertain. One thing is clear—Kogi politics is not Rivers politics. Yagba people especially, are politically aware, highly discerning, and not easily swayed.
In all the above analysis, Elder Leke would do well to remember that Power is sweet but fleeting. All living things and even intangible forces like political power, have an expiry date. If one does not leave power when the ovation is loudest, power will one day leave the person. The graveyard of politics is full of once-powerful men now forgotten.
In the end, the wisest political move might not be winning every fight, but knowing which fights are worth fighting. The general belief is that the center of gravity of Elder Leke’s battle is his third term agenda. Once he abandons this agenda and abides by the rule of the game, peace like a river will attend to his soul.
*COMMODORE FOLUSO DANIEL (Rtd)*