Raphael Adebanbo writes from Lagos
The just-concluded election was one that came with its twists and turns; many political pundits would describe it as pulsating and exciting, given the various political orchestrations that Nigerians got to witness.
Most importantly, it was also one which showed the true power of the people to give their mandate as well as take it as they had previously given.
The ultimate aim of the people when they vote is to receive the dividends of democracy, and when this is not met, they look forward to another elective year to support another candidate.
For the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency, Festus Akingbaso Fessywest, his emergence as the choice of the people in the house of representatives election is one that solidified and brought into light the beauty of democracy.
It’s a well-known fact that to defeat an incumbent politician is an herculean task, one that can only be made possible by a willful electorate that is determined to change the narrative.
Akingbaso scored 24,263 to defeat incumbent APC’s Mr. Tajudeen Adefisoye, who polled 20,064 to come in second, and the beauty of this victory can never be undermined because it’s not just a victory for Akingbaso but a victory for the people.
His victory was made possible through his determination to win against the odds; the people did not just believe in him because they wanted a change; they did because he gave them a very good reason too.
His records show the tale of a man who has always given his all for the growth of the region. As a member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, he showed his worth and left a mark, one that created a good name for him.
Hence, it was easier for the people to seek and find the change they wanted in him. It is the hope of the majority that this faith imposed on him will birth the desires of the people for their federal constituency.
