In the world of politics any where across the globe, one thing seems sacrosanct; that is personal interest. But in the quest for this, many forget that it is a call to public service. They forget the true intent of going into government and get swayed by personal gains.
However, there are still a few individuals who remain true and real with political ideals. Such individuals are selfless and serve all times either in office or not. They are the real leaders. One of such is Amb. Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki-Gambari.
Born into the Gambari lineage in Ilorin, Kwara State, Yahaya Seriki is a household name and a no novice in politics and public service. Despite, having not held any major political office in the state or at the centre, he has on several occasions, been appointed to serve within several political formation.
Seriki had also been instrumental in the emergence of many political office holders in Kwara, with his huge support and burgeoning influence. Fresh in memory was his unalloyed support for the incumbent Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, during the 2019 Governorship election.
Known for his uprightness and straightforwardness, it was indeed a huge task for him to relinquish his governorship aspiration in support of Governor AbdulRazaq, after the controversial and keenly contested Governorship primary of the APC in 2018. Without much haggling, he collapsed his political structure for Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.
During that ‘O to ge’ political crusade, Yahaya Seriki was at the vanguard, showing his solidarity with the party’s Governorship candidate and committing his personal resources stupendously towards the victory of the APC. It was in recognition of his political astuteness, commitment and loyalty that the ruling party appointed him as Campaign Director General for the 2019 general elections – a role he performed with utmost ardor and without blemish or disappointment.
It is no news that the APC in Kwara state got embroiled in wide political conflict after the polls, and all through the first term of the incumbent Governor. Several political chieftains and stakeholders defected to rival parties and worked against the AbdulRazaq government. The political crisis was capable of breaking the political firmament of the APC and ruining the chances of the party in the 2023 polls. But that was not to be. Thanks to the likes of Yahaya Seriki, one of the very few party chieftains who stood firm, loyal and committed to the party and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
Having suspended his governorship aspiration for the second term of Governor AbdulRazaq, Yahaya Seriki – and after due consultation and plea from his people – agreed to represent them at the Senate. Many believed this was his time to serve his constituent and a deserved reward for his loyalty, commitment and sacrifices. They also believed it was a won battle, considering his bright chances and the huge political support base he has. Again, that dream was short-lived. Under circumstances widely dissatisfactory, he lost the party’s Senatorial ticket for Kwara Central. In spite of this, Yahaya Seriki was never dispirited. Rather, his devotion to the party waxed stronger.
In a rare show of forthrightness, the business tycoon embraced the Kwara Central party flag bearer, Mallam Saliu Mustapha and served as Campaign DG for the governorship race the second time. Talk about his selflessness and innate ability to sacrifice immeasurably, Yahaya Seriki spearheaded the mission to reconcile aggrieved party faithful and attract defectors from other parties.
Without much ado, the race ahead of the 2027 poll is gradually gaining traction, and it is the hope and wish of the people of Kwara that the party will make the most appropriate decision, which is to reward the man who is deserving of the party’s ticket without haggle. It is the easiest route to victory for the APC and will no doubt consolidate the gains of the ‘O to ge’ political revolution.
There’s no disputing the fact that Yahaya Seriki has made his mark in humanitarian service and community development. As a business doyen, he has contributed immensely to the state economy through his mining business via Kursi Investment. In the area of philanthropy, he is famous for his Community Social Responsibility, CSR projects within and outside his host communities. In all humility, his humanitarian service is beyond measure, passionately traversing the nooks and cranny of Kwara to bring succour to the people. Imagine what he would be able to do, if given the opportunity to serve. Yahaya Seriki deserves unanimous support. In the truest sense, we deserve his service.
