Issues
Post COVID-19 Changes Nigeria Must Make
The COVID-19 pandemic is obviously a harbinger of global changes, meaning that for many developing nations certain conditions must be done away with, so as to adjust into the global network. What was known as globalisation some years ago called for some rapid transition on the part of developing nations so that no society remains short-changed in current global practices and orientations. Change was the mantra that brought the present APC-led administration into power. The slogan that “change begins with me”, means that some metamorphosis must take place within every individual.
Genuine process of development does not consist in material and visible infrastructure and social amenities, but in qualitative mindset of people. Such mindset, even though invisible, manifests in the quality of thinking and actions resulting therefrom. A society in transition is a society where there is a comprehensive transformation of visible conditions and attitudes by means of invisible but qualitative mental energy.
Therefore, managing a society in transition consists in bringing about a metamorphosis in the environment and mindset of people towards qualitative standard, away from prevailing conditions. Surely, prevailing social conditions in Nigeria cannot be described as ideal, such that we should rejoice and be content. Using the COVID-19 pandemic as a peg, it can be said that there is a need for rapid transition in every sector of life, towards qualitative global standards.
From the health sector to everything else, including managing labour issues, an ideal transition would demand that those who handle public institutions should explore some paradigm shift. Many people get scripted in old and regular ways of doing things that they ignore the fact that changes and prevailing circumstances call for a paradigm shift or the application of personal discretion. Known as hermeneutic theory in the management of transition and changes, the use of personal discretion, away from what regulations say, is an acceptable and noble practice. It demands of a chief executive to come down from the “high horse” and see what prevails on the ground; as things affect the masses.
Many people rarely live up their full potential both in terms of their personal lives and what they contribute to the larger society because of restrictions coming from “regulations”. Given a free hand, there are many insignificant people in society who can do great and unique things for the good of humanity, but they are held back by regulations and customs. We would rather spend N400, 000 to treat a COVID-19 patient than consider the possibility of available herbs serving such purpose.
To be able to address the jinx of breaking away from the shackles of fixed regulations and mindset boxed in traditions and customs, some drastic transitional measures are called for. The success of many forward-moving nations, including China, is the ability to by-pass obsolete rules, regulations, traditions and norms which hold little or no validity in the light of present experiences. Similarly, the long-held mindset of looking at the outward appearance of a messenger before considering whether or not to examine the message that he bears, has been responsible for many human losses. Dr Joseph Abalaka who was embarrassed in Nigeria by his professional colleagues was received gladly somewhere, such that his “concoction” is helping many people somewhere else.
In the university system with which one is acquainted, one finds that ego and conceit count as shackles holding back rapid transition. Anybody who comes to know would not find it hard to know that possession of certificates is a different thing from distilled personal experience borne of practical exposures and committed service delivery. But we are still deceived by ornaments. Obstacles standing in the way of redressing many anomalies in Nigeria would arise from minds held fast by the iron grips of ego, conceit; long-held belief system and many other unreasonable regulations, practices and privileges entrenched in society.
Among such unreasonable regulations, practices and privileges are patronage and sinecure system whereby some idlers and over-pampered persons are being paid huge amounts of money for giving no commensurate services. Many countries which gave undue and unmerited rights and privileges, including preferment, to some people, did not get on well till such abuses were abolished.
Every country, and at all times, often had this issue of unmerited privileges to some people and pressure groups. Unfortunately such anomalies, when not eliminated early, often grow into a “standing army” of influence peddlers or cabal who become retrogressive forces in society. When some groups of such “standing army” are close to authorities holding constitutional power, they can become a nuisance to society, hard to dislodge. In a similar way, some labour, professional or business bodies can hold a society to ransom when they become too powerful. In Nigeria, the association of cattle breeders known as Miyetti Allah appears to be using cattle as bulldozers in economic power game, with impunity.
A society in transition is usually characterized by hurry to the extent that quality control becomes compromised and discipline undermined. Examples of irresponsible service delivery include electricity supply that is unpredictable and a taxation system easy to evade. What we call corruption is not usually associated with financial activities and malpractices, but more often a social system that is unreliable and capable of making people to resort to self-help when there are loopholes and weak implementations.
A part of social transition includes changes in the economy whereby the state becomes less of an employer of labour, but more of a reliable regulatory instrument.
What is holding Nigeria back from rapid economic take-off results largely from our emphasis on academic learning process, coupled with a corrupt system which makes credit facilities difficult. There is hardly any way that rapid social transition can take place when loans and credit facilities are tied to political patronage or made difficult by corrupt practices. There is a need to unbundle Nigerian youths from the stronghold of politicians who lure many of them into wrong activities, including brigandage.
Leadership has a strong role to play in the process of social transformation, although part of the sacrifices needed for the purpose would be hard for Nigerian politicians to make. Apart from exemplary leadership which would inspire and encourage the masses, the cost of governance in Nigeria is high and needs to be cut down drastically. A situation where those who are meant to manage the resources of the nation judiciously can engage in lavish spending and consumption, the masses would hardly be encouraged.
A situation where some little benefits meant to flow to the masses are cornered and shared secretly by politicians who are by no means poor, is a situation which calls for a change of such mindset. From award of scholarship, to palliative measures under COVID-19 pandemic, there have been allegations and gossips about politicians taking and snatching away “milk” meant for babies. There have been allegations and gossips about contracts being reviewed upwards, payments made with alacrity and then the project abandoned. A nation where people rarely think of the consequences of their actions and decisions is a nation whose social transition would be agonizing.
Social transition involves and includes individuals becoming conscious of their personal and social responsibilities, in such a way that by observing their thoughts and actions they can afford to sleep without fear or a troubled conscience. Transition does not happen in the air but within the heart and soul of individuals, with a visible effect in the degree of patriotism on a larger number of the populace. What we observe daily now is a situation where a large number of people feel frustrated and sad, especially over management of public affairs.
Nigerians can be reliable, honest, patriotic and committed to work hard to build the nation, but with bitterness and a low morale, this cannot take place. An effective social transition requires managing affairs so that people are happy and can make sacrifices for the common good of the nation. To boost the drooping morale of Nigerians would need a drastic social change whereby the parasitic nature of the nation’s political economy would change to one of productivity.
If the Nigerian masses can see an honest example of a leader who would cut down 50% of his official and hidden perks and benefits, there would be a rapid social transformation, via the will and zeal of the people. For the moment, a common perception of the masses is that Nigeria would need drastic shaking before a social transition can come about. Managing the Nigerian economy satisfactorily would be a prelude to managing a social transition without stress or surprises.
Dr Amirize is a retired lecturer from the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt.
Bright Amirize
In 2015, I made a conscious decision to invest my financial resources, my time, and energy into supporting Nyesom Wike’s gubernatorial campaign. I poured my heart and soul into ensuring Nyesom Wike emerged victorious even at the risk of my personal safety.
Again in 2019, I doubled down on my commitment. I invested a significant amount of money to procure campaign outfits for all twenty-three Local Governments Areas of Rivers State. I spared no expense in supplementing Wike’s election efforts in my own local government, and once again putting myself at great risk to safeguard the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.
However, despite my unwavering loyalty and sacrifices, I found myself abandoned and forgotten by Wike. Throughout his eight-year tenure, he failed to acknowledge my contributions or fulfill his promises and agreements. Even as a former Deputy Governor, Wike denied me my severance benefit.
My investment in Wike’s governorship was not just financial – it was a commitment of passion, dedication, and belief in a better future for Rivers State. Yet, his leadership style of dishonesty, greed, drunkenness and rash abuse of senior citizens brought me nothing but disappointment, misery and losses.
By the grace of God, today I speak not as a victim, but as a hero. I have accepted my losses, and I have moved on. And as I reflect on my experience, I cannot help but urge Wike to do the same and allow peace and development to reign in Rivers State.
Nyesom Wike, when you speak of investing in Governor Sim Fubara’s election, remember those like me who also invested in you. Remember the sacrifices I made, the risks I took, and the promises and agreements you left unfulfilled.
It is time for you, Wike, to let go of the past and allow Governor Sim Fubara the breathing space he needs to lead Rivers State forward. Allow him to focus on the challenges of good governance and the aspirations of the people. Spare him these unwarranted and ill-conceived political manoeuvrings founded on personal agenda and not for general good of Rivers State and her people.
I may have lost my investment on Wike, but I have not lost hope in the future of Rivers State. And together, we will continue to strive for a brighter tomorrow.
Long Live the Governor to Rivers State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara!
Long Live the Good People of Rivers State!!
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!
Engr Ikuru is former Deputy Governor of Rivers State.
Tele Ikuru
The man Tony Okocha, the devastated tattered ragtag remnant Rivers APC factional, but Caretaker, Chairman, is known for being notoriously a hireling willing to play in the mud just for the pay or settlement. To Rt Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, he did against Chief Nyesom Wike. To Senator Magnus Abe, he did against Rotimi Amaechi. To Chief Nyesom Wike, he did against Magnus Abe. Having maintained such unbefitting character trait, it is not surprising to see him at his demeaned best showing off his tainted skill of grandstanding and loquaciously struggling fruitlessly almost every day to castigate the popular Rivers people’s Governor with very glaring false, bogus and unsubstantiated claims such as:
1. That Governor Fubara is wasting state fund in the name of thanksgiving across 23 Local Government Areas.
2. That Governor Fubara has withheld Local Government funds.
3. That Governor Fubara runs the government without input from the State Executive Council.
4. That nothing is happening in the State with respect to governance.
To the above false claims of Tony Okocha, every reasonable, right thinking and well-meaning Rivers person would effortlessly puncture all as rascality and mendacity taken too far.
Apart from the fact that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had said he is not sponsoring the massive SIMplified Movement Thanksgiving events across the Local Government Areas of the State being organised by elated Rivers people who feel liberated from an era of overbearing and suppressive form of leadership in the State, Tony Okocha should be asked to prove his false claim with indisputable facts and figures. Until then, let Tony Okocha respect himself and learn to keep quiet as an elderly person who is saddled with such a responsible position as Rivers State Representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board. A position that places a huge responsibility on him to ensure that the core objectives of the commission are actualised in the State, by not only ensuring that Rivers State gets its fair share of its dues in terms of projects, programmes and activities, but by synergising with the state government on development matters concerning the state vis-a-vis the responsibilities of NDDC to the State. In summary, the SIMplified Movement is all about a happy and joyful people of Rivers State who have decided to stand and stick together to defend and uphold their common heritage and patrimony. It is a voluntary venture, not sponsored by the government.
To his claim that the Governor has withheld Local Government funds, Mr Tony Okocha should also be asked to prove that with facts and figures and explain why the Governor would do such. More so, what is Tony Okocha’s business, assuming, but not conceding, that a PDP Governor withholds money against PDP-led 23 Local Government authorities? Did Local Government workers across the state complain to Okocha, the meddlesome hireling, an acclaimed APC Caretaker Committee Chairman in Rivers State?
On his ignorant and false claim that the Governor runs the government without input from the state exco, Okocha, the busybody wannabe should explain how he was employed or engaged as the spokesperson of members of the Rivers State Executive Council. He should also tell us his source of information to that effect, if it is not just a proof that he is making himself known as a perpetually irredeemable hireling notoriously good for playing the spoiler’s role.
On Mr Okocha’s assertion, probably, borne out of lack of more convincing lies, that nothing is happening in the State with respect to governance, is sure a proof that the man is only acting a bad and an unsellable script to justify the reward of expected gratifying filthy lucre, which is the compelling reason for condescending so low and evilly so. How else is governance measured, if not by executing meaningful and impactful projects, giving hope, inspiring and putting smiles on the faces of the people with joy of fulfilment in their hearts, both civil servants and everyone living and doing business in the State? Is Okocha blind to see and deaf to hear of the good works of the Governor Fubara led Rivers State Government? Civil servants are happy, teachers are highly elated. Several projects are ongoing. Investors are trooping in. The health sector, education, agriculture, sports have been highly boosted under Governor Fubara-led administration. To Okocha, there’s no governance in the State because patronage of free money is not getting to him from the Governor but from other sources that are likely against the Governor.
Let Tony Okocha weep more. Rivers State is breathing fresh air already and is liberated.
Let Tony Okocha tell us how he has, so far, as Rivers State Representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), clearly effected development in the State through the NDDC, and why he lied that there was Cholera outbreak with deaths recorded in Soku in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area with the intent of raking in about ¦ N5billion for non-existent mitigation programmes?
Odike is Special Assistant to Rivers State Governor on Social/New Media .
Bernard C. Idike
Franklin Delano Roosevelt, commonly known as FDR, was an American statesman and politician who served as the 32nd President of the United States from 1933 until his death in 1945. He was a member of the Democratic Party and is the only United States President to have served more than two terms.
In one of his popular quotes, he said, “The creed of our democracy is that liberty is acquired and kept by men and women who are strong and self-reliant, and possessed of such wisdom as God gives mankind – men and women who are just, and understanding, and generous to others — men and women who are capable of disciplining themselves. For they are the rulers and they must rule themselves.”
This explains the recent gathering of creme la creme of Asari-Toru political gladiators converged at the inauguration of the Simplified Movement, ASALGA chapter to reiterate their unflinching support for the Rivers State Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara whose mantra revolves around liberation.
The event which took place at the Autograph in Port Harcourt on the 1st of March, 2024, to galvanise strong support for Governor Fubara attracted over 500 members of the Simplified Movement from the Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The gathering of supporters of Governor Fubara’s government, under the umbrella of the Simplified Movement, the ASALGA chapter led by an astute politician, former member of the Federal House of Representatives and two- time member of the Rivers State Executive Council as Commissioner, Chief Hon. Paworiso Samuel Horsfall comprised both the old and young generation political helmsmen drawn from all the 13 Wards of the local government area.
The nerve-““““““wracking gathering had the likes of the 1999 democratic system pioneer Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Council and former two-time Special Adviser to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike, Hon. Opakirite Mackson Jackreece; former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Adokiye Young-Harry; former member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Daisy West and former Special Adviser to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike, Chief Hon. Iboroma Norman Wokoma.
Others were the incumbent Vice Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Council, Hon. (Mrs.) Tekena Wokoma; former Commissioner of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, Hon. Dr. Hope Barango; the South-West Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Sule Amachree and the Secretary of the Local Government chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Cladious Princewill; former Chief of Staff of Council, Hon. Ajumogobia West and former Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ASALGA, Hon. Onari Awo Tariah.
Also present at the event were past caretaker committee chairmen of the Local Government Council including, Hon. Waite Harry, Hon. Dawari Hamilton Ibinabo, Hon. Wright Warmate and former Deputy Mayor of the Port Harcourt City Council, Hon. Adokiye Horsfall amongst others. My humble self belongs to the movement. The list is inexhaustible.
Speaking at the inauguration, the member representing Asari-Toru/Akuku-Toru Federal Constituency and leader of the Asari-Toru political family, Hon. Boma Goodhead assured the people of the commitment of the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara to extend visible dividends of democracy to the people of ASALGA.
The federal lawmaker who spoke through her representative, Dr. Sule Amachree, said Governor Fubara means well for Rivers people, particularly the people of ASALGA and urged them to remain calm, peaceful and resolute in their support to the administration of the State Governor.
“His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara is the Governor ordained by God to liberate Rivers people from the snares of poverty and oppression. He is God-sent to bring visible and even development to Rivers State and Asari-Toru people are on the top of that agenda of development,” she said.
Hon. Goodhead reiterated her confidence in the capacity of the leader of the Simplified Movement, ASALGA chapter, Chief Hon. Paworiso Samuel Horsfall to mobilise massive support and a huge source of encouragement for the Government of Sir Siminalayi Fubara to succeed.
“I urge you to continue to stand firm with our Governor. Be rest assured that His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara is a man of peace, focused and determined to deliver on the mandate given to him by the people of Rivers State. He will not fail you,” she said.
In his speech, the leader of the ASALGA chapter of the Simplified Movement, Chief Hon. Paworiso Samuel Horsfall described the movement as a child of necessity born out of the hunger of Rivers people for a paradigm shift from oppression to liberation.
“As witnessed across the length and breadth of Rivers State, the Simplified Movement is a child of necessity, born out of the hunger for a paradigm shift from oppression to liberation, with one core objective to promote and defend the interests of Rivers State and her people. It is on this account, we stand as dependable allies giving strong support to the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara in his pursuit of peace and commitment to the genuine development of Rivers State.
“It is our position that with the elections come and gone, it is practically a time to face governance and to ensure deliverables of dividends to the people of Rivers State in the atmosphere of peace, security and stability,” he said.
Chief Samuel Horsfall explained that Rivers people saw the leadership qualities needed to achieve the sole objective to genuinely defend and promote the interest of the State in Governor Fubara, hence the spontaneous massive support expressed in the birth of the Simplified Movement.
He recounted avalanche of achievements made by Governor Fubara within six months in office. “We appreciate the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara for his resilience and determination to make a difference. It is on record and attestable by all, the numerous projects being executed by his administration.
“Such as the ongoing construction of the gigantic Port Harcourt Ring Road project, the 20,000 housing units for low income earners, the Ogoni-Andoni-Opobo-Nkoro Unity road, the near completion of the 10km Old Port Harcourt-Bori road, the Emohua-Kalabari road, the 6.5km Woji-Alesa-Refinery link road and the inclusion of the remaining part of the Trans-Kalabari road project in the 2024 budget. “Moreover, the promotion of the State civil servants, first time in history payment of N100,000.00 Christmas bonus to civil servants across board, approval of promotions and implementation of N30,000.00 minimum wage for local government workers and the N4 billion single digit interest loans facility for Small and Medium Scale business operators in Rivers State. All these achievements within six months in office are eloquent testimonies of Governor Fubara to deliberately improve the welfare of Rivers people.
“We are convinced that such a proven great mind and well experienced, tested and trusted administrator/technocrat, Governor Fubara has demonstrated the capacity to deliver effectively the needed democratic dividends to Rivers people. It is on this convention we are gathered here for the umpteenth time to reaffirm our unalloyed support and commitment to his administration,” Chief Samuel Horsfall declared.
He disclosed that the gathering was to put in place citizens mobilisation strategy to forge a collaborative bond with the Governor to foster partnership for the development of ASALGA and the State. He, therefore, advised those he called detractors of Governor Fubara’s administration to desist forthwith and allow the Governor to remain focused in his quest to deliver on his mandate.
“All detractors should desist from further attacks on the Governor and the Chief of Staff, Government House, Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie and allow the Governor to focus on the delivery of the good policies and programmes to Rivers people. We unequivocally condemn attempts by disgruntled Abuja politicians to employ intimidation antics against the former Speaker of the 10th State Assembly and current Chief of Staff, Government House, Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie and others who are standing on the path of justice and good conscience for the collective good of Rivers State.
“We equally urge the Nigerian Police and other security agencies to be discreet in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities in the State and not to allow themselves to be used by selfish individuals who do not mean well to fuel political crisis in Rivers State.
Chief Samuel Horsfall also commended the federal lawmaker, Hon. Boma Goodhead for her doggedness and resilience in supporting Governor Fubara since the wake of the political crisis in the State.
Several other personalities spoke to express their support to the State Governor and urged the people to ASALGA to maintain their peaceful disposition and remain steadfast in the Simplified Movement to give the state government maximum support to continue to render good governance to Rivers people.
Highlights of the event were the inauguration of the elders and stakeholders of the Simplified Movement for the 13 Wards as well as the executive committee of the movement in Asari-Toru Local Government Area.
Amieyeofori Ibim
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