A renowned peace advocate, Dr Raphael Ogar Oko, has called on the people of Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State to remain prayerful, politically conscious and vigilant as what he describes as a possible turning point in their political history approaches.
Dr Oko made the remarks in a write-up shared on the Yala WhatsApp platform, where he drew a comparison between the struggle for political freedom and the biblical liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.
According to him, divisions among individuals or groups who have historically worked together against an oppressed population could indicate that an era of oppression is approaching its end.
Division Among Oppressors Could Signal Political Change
In his message, Dr Oko argued that when an oppressed people are approaching freedom, those who have collectively maintained their oppression may begin to disagree and turn against one another.
He suggested that such internal disagreements could create an opportunity for the oppressed population to pursue liberation with less resistance.
He wrote:
“When a people in slavery are about to gain their freedom and become free people, the slave masters who have been united in punishing the people will become enemies of each other and fight themselves. This will allow the people to move out of slavery without any opposition. Whenever you see such a thing happening, know that the slavery era is coming to an end.”
His argument presents political division among established power holders as a possible opportunity for a new political direction, particularly when the people concerned are prepared to recognise and take advantage of the changing circumstances.
Yala LGA Approaches 40 Years in 2031
Dr Oko also drew attention to the historical timeline of Yala Local Government Area, noting that the council will mark its 40th anniversary in 2031.
He used this milestone to make a strong political statement about the future of the area, declaring that what he described as the people’s era of political slavery should not extend beyond 40 years.
He wrote:
“Yala LGA Council shall be 40 years by 2031. Our slavery era shall not last beyond 40 years. The oppressors who have been united against the people shall now be divided against themselves. It is time to move our people from political slavery to political freedom.”
The statement reflects his apparent desire for a new political order in Yala, one in which the people can exercise greater political independence, influence decisions affecting their communities and participate meaningfully in determining their collective future.
His reference to 2031 also places the discussion within a broader conversation about the political direction and leadership future of Yala Local Government Area.
Who Will Be the Moses of Yala?
Beyond identifying what he considers signs of an approaching political transformation, Dr Oko challenged the people to pay attention to the question of leadership.
Drawing another lesson from the biblical account of Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, he suggested that God would raise an individual capable of leading Yala towards political liberation.
However, he cautioned that identifying such a person would be a major responsibility for the people.
He stated:
“It is however the people’s portion of responsibility to be prayerfully careful and watch for who the Lord may have raised to serve as the Moses to move them from slavery to freedom. God will surely raise a Moses among them but how to identify him will be the challenge.”
This part of his message places particular emphasis on discernment, responsible political choices and the importance of identifying credible leadership.
It also suggests that political transformation should not be based merely on the emergence of disagreements among established political interests but on the ability of the people to recognise individuals with the character, vision and commitment required to serve their collective interests.
Political Freedom Requires Responsible Leadership
Dr Oko’s message raises important questions about political participation, representation, accountability and the future of democratic leadership in Yala.
Political freedom goes beyond replacing one group of political leaders with another. It requires institutions that serve the people, transparent governance, equal opportunities, respect for citizens’ rights and meaningful participation in decisions affecting their communities.
Similarly, the emergence of political disagreements among established interests does not automatically guarantee liberation or better governance. The people must be prepared to evaluate political actors based on their records, integrity, competence, policies and commitment to public service.
As Yala approaches its 40th anniversary as a local government council in 2031, the message offers an opportunity for reflection on the area’s political journey, achievements, challenges and aspirations.
For Dr Oko, the central message is that the people must remain watchful and prayerful as they anticipate a new chapter in their political history.
Whether the political developments he describes will produce the transformation he envisages remains to be seen. However, his call for political awareness, responsible leadership and collective determination places the question of Yala’s future firmly before its people.
Akahi News will continue to follow important conversations and developments concerning political leadership, peace, governance and the future of communities across Nigeria.
🎓 Attend 2027/2028 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.