In politics, titles are easy. Loyalty is rare. In recent times, one name is becoming a bell ringing both in the ears and heart of the people. Hon. Salimonu Almaruf was one of those who presented himself to serve the people of Yagba East State Constituency at Kogi State House of Assembly before the Primaries of the All Progressives Congress APC. As fate will have it, the incumbent Assembly Member representing the Area was retained and will fly the Party’s flag in the coming elections.
Be it as it may, Hon. Almaruf who never came into the contest with the mindset of do-or-die affairs, congratulated the Candidate of the Party and pledged his continued loyalty to the Party and it’s Candidates. Such display of sportsmanship is rare in today’s politics where bitterness and self centeredness is displayed by Politicians.
Before he ventures into the Assembly race, Hon. Almaruf, through has been impacting the lives of the people of various Communities positively through his Almaruf Educational Support Foundation, where he provides education support materials to various students and also holds free Medical Outreach to improve the health needs of the people.
That’s why across Yagba East and beyond, Hon. Salimonu Almaruf is described in one phrase: “an embodiment of loyalty.” It’s not just a slogan. For years, he has built a reputation as a team player who stands with his people and his party and he is ready to serve whenever duty calls.
* LOYALTY TESTED, NOT JUST SPOKEN
Loyalty in public life is measured when pressure is high. Hon. Salimonu has consistently shown commitment to the vision of his leaders and the mandate of his people. Whether in campaign trenches or behind the scenes, he has remained steady, reliable, and focused on collective success rather than personal spotlight. That consistency is why party stakeholders and constituents trust him.
Shortly after the Party’s Assembly ticket was secured by the incumbent, report has it that Almaruf was approached by other Parties, presenting their Party’s ticket to him on a platter of gold. But as a Party man and core loyalist, he did not allow himself to be distracted by such offers as he rejected it and remained focused in promoting the ideas of his Party, APC. This is loyalty at a higher scale.
* SERVICE BEFORE TITLE
“Ready to serve when duty calls” is more than words for him. Long before any office, he engaged in community support: mobilizing youth, supporting grassroots initiatives, and showing up for families in times of need. His approach is simple: serve first, let the position follow. That mindset has earned him respect from elders, youth groups, and women leaders who see him as one of their own.
* THE PEOPLE’S BRIDGE
Hon. Salimonu Almaruf is often called a bridge between leaders and the grassroots. He listens, communicates, and ensures feedback moves both ways. In a political climate where distance grows between leaders and the led, his strength is staying connected.
Leadership is not just about holding office. It’s about being dependable when it matters. Hon. Salimonu Almaruf has proven that through years of loyalty, service, and readiness. For many in Kogi, he represents the kind of leader you can call today and trust to deliver tomorrow.
Because when duty calls, Hon. Salimonu Almaruf will respond – not with excuses, but with action.
