Follow Us on Google
A group, A better Rivers at the weekend said governance is serious business, with character and integrity as criteria for anyone seeking an election to a position in public service.
Led by its president, Precious James, the group said Rivers has been blessed over the years across different administrations to be governed by an unbroken circle of distinguished Nigerians, with enviable resumes both in their private practice to their political career.
“From former governor Peter Odili to incumbent, Nyesom Wike, Rivers has produced a politician from his student days and a lawyer who all went on to also excel in politics.
However, as the March 11 governorship election draws near, the battle for a successor takes front seat.
With the governor’s term coming to an end, many candidates are vying for the position and will be competing in the upcoming election. Various political parties have nominated their candidates and the race for the governorship is heating up.
Wike’s term has seen significant economic growth and infrastructure development, and it is important to find someone who could continue this trend while also finding new and innovative ways to improve the state. It was also important to find someone who could work with the state legislature and other stakeholders to ensure that the state’s progress continued.
However, allegations are rife that among contenders vying to succeed Wike as governor, one of them is a professional and habitual gambler. This must be taken with all seriousness.
Persons with gambling problems tend to lack self-restraint and would easily fritter away state resources to fuel their passion.
Those who have expressed these concerns say that Rivers at this time needs someone who is focussed on institutional building, bureaucratic reforms and consolidation of the efforts of previous administrations. This is not the time in the life of Rivers State to take a risk with flashy exteriors and smooth talkers. This is the time to reinforce a Rivers that works for everyone,” he said in a statement.
The group warns voters against electing inebriates, emphasising that effective administration requires people who are prepared to serve rather than those who will waste the state’s resources.
