By Owodunni Rasheed Adekunle
In politics, it is easy to remain committed when things are going exactly as one wishes. The real test of loyalty, however, comes when personal expectations do not materialise. This is where the character of Alhaji (Chief) Abdulhakeem Kayode Adebiyi Ojokure stands out.
His appointment as the Director General of the campaign of Prince Lekan Adewoye, the APC candidate for Kwara South Senatorial District, says a lot about the confidence reposed in him and the value he brings to the party. It is not simply an appointment; it is also an indication that his experience, network and commitment to the APC are recognised.
The interest shown by His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, in Ojokure’s participation in the Kwara South senatorial campaign further demonstrates the importance attached to his contribution to the party. Likewise, the confidence and attention from the Kwara APC Governorship Candidate, Rt. Hon. Engr. Saliu Yakubu Danladi, show that Ojokure remains a significant stakeholder whose participation matters.
For me, the most important part of this development is what happened after the party primaries.
Ojokure contested the primary and, like every other aspirant, had his own legitimate ambition. He did not emerge as the candidate, but rather than allow personal disappointment to become bigger than the party, he accepted the responsibility of working for the success of the APC and its candidates.
That, to me, is what being a party man means.
Political contests will always produce winners and those who do not emerge. What happens afterwards is what truly reveals the depth of one’s commitment. Party members cannot always get what they want, but the larger interest of the organisation should remain bigger than individual ambition.
Ojokure’s decision to accept these responsibilities sends a message that the APC is bigger than any individual, ambition or temporary setback.
Whether one looks at it from the perspective of party organisation, personal sacrifice or political maturity, Ojokure’s acceptance of these responsibilities deserves attention. He has chosen to put the party’s collective interest ahead of what could have been personal grievances after the primaries.
As the 2027 political season gradually takes shape, the APC will need more of this spirit from its members and stakeholders: the ability to compete when it is time to compete, and the ability to unite and work together when the contest is over.
I wish Alhaji (Chief) Abdulhakeem Kayode Adebiyi Ojokure success in his new responsibility, and I wish Prince Lekan Adewoye, the APC governorship candidate and the entire APC family the very best as they prepare for the elections.
Owodunni Rasheed Adekunle is the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Oyun Local Government and write from Ojoku, Oyun Local Government.