Between Handouts and intentional governance
Intentional governance is that which consciously considers the integral needs of a people, devises ways of meeting them and resolves to solve them in all honesty. It is the careful observation and discovery of what matters to a people and the sincere attempt at making them available for the utility and gratification of those who need them.
In simple terms, governance is problem-solving, creating jobs and economic opportunities, infrastructural development, creation of an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, creation of access to good healthcare and the provision of security.
None of the above suggests or connotes throwing money in the air, staging demeaning empowerments and false dramatic humility.
In advanced countries, elections are conducted without the hullabaloo and pageantry given to it by countries on this divide (Nigeria particularly) yet, leaders are elected.
But we have been so immersed in the water of political-accomplishment, so much that we have lost our senses of objectivity and straightness of head to the notion that governance is an opportunity to give and receive unmerited favour.
When one is able to deliver on real governance, he is seen as being stingy and selfish. When unable to satisfy the true yearnings of the people but able to grease their palms, he is said to be “ono owo mkpo”.
This unhealthy trend should not be allowed to continue so as not to take Akwa Ibom many steps back wards
The good intentions of Governor Udom must be sustained for the good of our tomorrow.
Gov. Emmanuel has ensured the existence of quality access roads, fully equipped and modernised healthcare system, a boast in the education sector, training of the youths in ICT, agriculture and business, exemplified in the establishment of industries which has employed thousands of Akwa Ibomites.
With a larger picture of making Akwa Ibom an industrial hub in kind, God gave us a successor in the person of Pst. Umo Eno who would fit into his design for the state.
We are therefore confronted with the choice of being in a constant state of underdevelopment or being imprisoned by the slavery tactics of politicians who are falsely decorated as ” ono owo mkpo”.
The aspiration of Umo Eno represents the collective well-being of the people with specific reference to peace, development and prosperity.
From all indications, he is not coming to govern with bitterness and pride but to serve which is a key feature of a character expected of a leader.
Umo Eno is the way!
Richard Peters
