Follow Us on Google
From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
Public affairs commentator and State chairman of Imo for All (IF), Chief Benjamin Nwabali, has said Imo State needs leaders whose wealth and success come from legitimate work, not shortcuts.
In a statement titled “The truth about effective government that works”, Nwabali warned that celebrating questionable wealth in the name of survival is destroying the values of the society.
“We have arrived at a strange time in our generation. The loudest applause is no longer for the teacher, nurse, farmer or honest businessman. It is now for the young man with questionable wealth who organizes giveaways,” he said.
According to him, fraud is being rebranded as “hustle” and deception is now called “being smart”. He noted that instead of asking “Where did the money come from?”, people now ask “How can I connect with this person?”
Nwabali said the trend poses a danger to institutions and to the next generation.
“A society that celebrates fraud in the name of survival is a society gradually destroying its own future. Today we applaud shortcuts. Tomorrow, those shortcuts will collapse our hospitals, schools, roads and businesses,” he stated.
He added that “survival without honour can become delayed destruction” because everyone will one day need services from doctors, teachers, engineers and lawyers.
The commentator urged a new direction for Imo State that focuses on creating legitimate opportunities for youths.
“We need leadership that understands that empowerment must go beyond political slogans. We need investment in skills acquisition, education, infrastructure, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic opportunities,” he said.
Nwabali said the kind of leadership Imo needs is one represented by Mazi Okechukwu C. Okechukwu, describing it as a vision focused on creating opportunities, developing human capacity, and supporting vulnerable people.
“The answer to crime is not merely condemnation. We must also create alternatives. Give our young people skills. Give them opportunities. Give them hope,” he added.
He concluded by calling on Imo people to celebrate honest work and align with the vision of Okechukwu.
“Let us celebrate the welder who starts at 6 a.m. Let us celebrate the trader who refuses to deceive customers. That is survival too. It builds character and lasting legacies,” Nwabali said.
