Member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in Lagos State, Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, on Sunday hosted former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, at his Ikeja residence. Bello and members of his entourage were warmly received by Hon. Faleke and his family.
During the visit, the legislator thanked the former governor for the honour of visiting him in Lagos, noting that such gestures strengthen brotherhood and unity.
Commending Bello for his achievements as governor, Faleke expressed confidence that his track record would speak for him and assured him that he could comfortably win his forthcoming senatorial election based on his performance in office.
“I want to thank you for finding time to visit us and, of course, for setting aside your engagements to pay this visit, rejoice with us, and dine with my family. I also want to thank you for making what many people consider impossible become possible.
“This is your second visit to me. The first was in Abuja when you called and said you wanted to visit me. Yesterday night, you called again and said, ‘I want to come to your house tomorrow,’ and I said, ‘Really?’ Here you are this afternoon,” he said.
Describing Lagos as a unique place in Nigeria, Faleke noted that the people of Lagos are generally accommodating and welcoming.
He stressed that Lagos rewards those who mean well and embraces people regardless of their background or place of origin.
“Lagos is a good place, and the people are very accommodating. They appreciate those who mean well, and as long as your intentions are good, Lagos will be good to you. They do not discriminate on any basis,” he said.
While extending his best wishes to Bello ahead of the senatorial election, Faleke reiterated that the former governor’s achievements were enough to campaign for him.
“As we prepare for the campaign season, I want to wish you good luck. Of course, you can sit at home and still win your election. Your achievements will campaign for you, alongside the gentlemen and women who serve as your foot soldiers.
“The people can clearly see the difference between you and your opponent, and I am convinced they would not trade you for any other candidate. I am confident you will bring even more development to the state in addition to what you achieved as governor. I wish you the very best,” he said.
Faleke also commended the incumbent Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo, stating that he has been performing well and deserves recognition.
“I also want to commend Governor Ododo. He has been doing very well. I have commended him both privately and publicly, and I wish him continued success,” he said.
Speaking on political reconciliation and fair play, Faleke noted that politics often brings together former rivals and that such developments should be embraced.
“In politics, anything can happen. The impossible can become possible, including what people describe as ‘enemies becoming friends.’ Politics is not a do-or-die affair.
“Only God knows where any of us will be tomorrow. I often remind people that even Prince Abubakar Audu, with whom I ran in 2015, is no longer with us today. Why then should those of us who are alive continue fighting one another? It is unnecessary, and I commend you for finding time to visit me today,” he said.
Responding, Former Governor Yahaya Bello thanked Rt. Hon. Faleke for the warm hospitality extended to him and his entourage.
Bello said he was proud of Faleke’s leadership qualities and political accomplishments in Lagos State, noting that he continues to distinguish himself as a true protégé of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He emphasized that unity remains the foundation for sustainable development and progress.
“I want to thank you and your family for this warm reception. My brother, I am proud of you. When I grow up, I want to be like our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, because through his teachings, we have leaders like you today.
“I want to be like him so that I can also raise and mentor people. Whatever we need to develop our state can only be achieved more easily when we are united. We shall continue to work together for the benefit of our state.
“I also thank your wife for taking time to specially prepare meals for me and my entourage. We shall continue to have this kind of engagement,” he said.
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