"State government has too often been used to look out for the insiders and not the citizens. This has insulated poverty from progress and need for remedy" – Ernie Fletcher.
You can agree with me that the above quote states the disposition of our state government, and political dogmas. Where only those who are
linked, related, or benevolent to the powers that be feel the impact
of government. Appointments, opinions, influence are traded as quid pro quo for support received or allurements for keeping mute or playing ignorant.
As this sad drama ensures the only place government is really happening is in the media, fake pictures, fake projects, propaganda and media branding takes a better space of the discuss. All political players are either excessively preoccupied with selling lies or fighting truths, no one is actually concerned about the progress of the state. But why should you and I be concerned? What
relationship do you have with the state? Why can't you just lead your normal life and forget about this political ju-jit-tsu? Well that's where the question of Citizenship ensues.
According to the Oxford Law Companion "citizenship is the legal link between an individual and a particular state or political community under which the individual receives certain rights, privileges and protection in return for allegiance and duties". One of such duty is the duty of protecting the continuity of our state, its progress and its institution, its values, environment and peaceful coexistence. Citizens must realize that even in their bedrooms the fate of the
state is being determined.
moral fiber of his congregation, the students union leaders who serve
selflessly, putting others first, the market woman who is empathic and not greedy for gain. The lecturer who deals honestly and doesn't exploit his position, to demand sex or money for grades, the
politician who has not forgotten his manifesto, that's where the foundation of Society lies. As Gordon Hinckley noted, " every good citizen adds to adds to the strength of the nation". The citizen has the moral obligation and responsibility to always hold the government accountable and be likewise accountable.
of class stratification and ethnic inequalities, and economic
abundance; we must, buying the idea of Dr Julius K. Nyerere in his political ideology of Ujamaa, pursue a course of leadership where every member of the state contributes to betterment of all. Where unity is borne from diversity, where a child of a nobody can become
somebody without knowing anybody, where our progress as a people is
more paramount that our political party differences, where we can ensure Justice and fairness, where the rule of law prevails, where our leaders can pray like Nmandi Azikiwe Guide me…so that…while in office. I Shall not seek to acquire wealth in order to trample upon
my fellow man and deprive him of his right to be prosperous in life, that I may not be selfish. That I may be fair in my dealings, that I may not forget that my main objective is to make lighter the
burden of my fellow man…(paraphrased).
Together, let's build our state, as Good citizens, engendering the 'COMMON GOOD'.
God Bless Cross River State.
(Revolutionary Leader and
Advocate of the Common Good)
