Leave Amaechi Alone

Naturally, the infiltration of the well placed individuals in the helm of affairs could be noticeable judging from the level of their performances, and not by mere imaginations which rather bring some fiery tales to riddle the minds.

Without mincing words, Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has, in the last five and half years as governor of Rivers State, demonstrated that he is indeed a man with great ideas, committed to lead the people of the State to a greener pasture.

The Holy Scripture affirms that every perfect gift comes from God, God has bestowed on Amaechi the gift of wisdom and knowledge to deliver the people of the State in particular from the shackles of underdevelopment. Available statistics show that among the past governors of Rivers State, the tenure of Commander Alfred Diete Spiff, now Amanyanabo of Twon Brass, recorded impressive landmark achievements which cannot be forgotten in the annals of the history of the State. Chief Melford Okilo of blessed memory also made some impacts in the development agenda of the State through his decentralisation policy. This does not connote that other military administrators and civilian governors did not make their contributions in the development quest of the State.

Despite their efforts, more  was still expected to be done in the overall development of Rivers State, hence, the yearning for good government.

Before Amaechi came to the saddle on October 25, 2007, the State was almost left ungovernable with despicable acts of criminality ravaging the city of Port Harcourt and its environs. Today, Amaechi’s mission statement on assumption of office, that “I will stop at nothing to fight against criminality in the State,” has been well kept.

There is no doubt that the State is gradually stepping out of the zest for violence and other social vices. Thanks to Amaechi’s restless commitment to restore peace to the State.

That  the oil and gas sector is receiving a boost today is as a result of the sharp decline in the wave of crimes particularly in Rivers State.

Interestingly too, the governor has, in less than six years in office, recorded significant improvements especially in the area of education, health, road networks, construction of drainage system in Port Harcourt to check flooding as well as his prompt action to set up pre-flood and post flood disaster management committee headed by his deputy, Engr. Tele Ikuru.

On education to be precise, the slogan that teachers reward is in heaven has fizzled out as teachers are now being paid promptly.

Besides, the governor took over the payment of teachers’ salary from the local government councils in order to alleviate the plight of teachers. In all, his education policy has enhanced student’s enrolment in public schools under the present administration.

Amaechi’s exceptional leadership qualities mostly in building bridges of unity through organising of town hall meetings and stakeholders forum is another eloquent testimony of his insistence on due process, transparency, probity and accountability, which is the hallmark of good governance.

One is therefore, compelled to question the rationale behind the negative criticisms of a performing governor. Although, constructive criticism is welcome in a civilized and democratic society, any criticism that is not based on issues is malicious and should be discouraged in our society.

It is therefore instructive for every good people of Rivers State to condemn in practical terms some evil minded persons who are hell-bent on thwarting the untiring efforts of Governor Amaechi, especially in the area of security and developmental blueprint to bring Port Harcourt back to its former original masterplan.

Indeed, the entire people of Rivers State, especially the political elite, should come together and support the leadership of Governor Amaechi in order to attract more dividends of democracy and sustainable development to the State.

Oye wrote in from Port Harcourt.

George Oye