Senator Ahmed Ogembe, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District of Kogi State. In this interview, he x-rayed the leadership crisis in Kogi state and called on the warring factions to come together for the peace of the state and its people, his passion for the completion of Ajaokuta steel complex and other sundry issues. Our correspondent, brings the excerpt.
The 2017 budget has just been assented, what is there for your constituents?
I have been able to influence the inclusion of projects for my senatorial district in the 2017 budget. I will continue to monitor the implementation and execution of the projects, we will benefit immensely from the implementation of the 2017 budget. In specific terms I was instrumental to the inclusion of the provision of transformers to improve electricity, water projects, construction of a pedestrian bridge in Adavi LGA, sporting equipment for secondary schools, equipping of general hospitals in Okene and Adogo, construction of Model Junior school buildings, rehabilitation of federal highways, a lot of youth and women empowerment programs and many other intervention projects. With all these I am sure that my people will be better for it.
There has been serious outcry on salary payment in your state; what can you say?
We are all aware of the recession which has engulfed our nation for some time now and allocations to states dwindled. We are also aware that successive administrations in Kogi State have also shown serious concern over the wage bill. They have equally embarked on several screening exercise to authenticate the actual civil servants on the state payroll but largely unsuccessful. I am also aware that the recently ended screening exercise embarked upon by the present administration of Alhaji Yahaya Bello came with a lot of hardship, but I am sure that at the end of the whole thing salaries will be normalized. I have heard the Governor saying on several occasions that no genuine worker will be shortchanged or victimized. My advice is that those who have genuine case should use every administrative procedure to get it rectified. I am also using this medium to call on the state government to expedite action to normalize salary payment in the state. Happily, I understand that the verification exercise have been concluded.
Recently Sen Dino Melaye moved for state of emergency in Kogi State, what is your stand on Governor Yahaya Bello and Sen Dino Melaye feud?
You need to understand the workings of the Senate. Senator Dino Melaye raised a point of order and under order 43 which is personal explanation. Senator Dino gave an account of the ugly incident in which he was attacked while in his constituency and it is only the Senate President that rules or comments afterwards under order 43. The duo are very close friends before and I believe they will find a way to solve their problem. I hope they close ranks in the interest of the State, no meaningful development can thrive in an atmosphere of acrimony. I have spoken to Senator Dino privately to come to a resolution of all issues with Governor Bello in the interest of all Kogites but you should also be aware that the issues at stake are largely internal problems of the All Progressive Congress in which I wouldn’t want to be an interloper in their affairs. I feel very strongly that their party, the APC, and their leaders have vital roles to play to bring the crisis to an end. On my part I will continue to advice that good reasons should prevail.
What are your plans for 2017 session of the Senate?
Like I said, as a legislator, I will continue to ensure that my impact is felt through sponsoring of bills and motions that have direct bearing on my people. You are aware that I moved the motion on compulsory insurance which has been implemented especially in the motor insurance scheme across the country. I also have Mandatory Hemoglobin Test bill, which will revolutionize the health sector for good and curb the sickle cell menace, this bill is slated for second reading.
I will also through lobbying, influence implementation of projects for my constituents. I have carried out some empowerment programs for women and youths across the five Local government Areas which makes up my senatorial district. I hope to sustain the tempo until majority of our people become self reliant. I am also working with relevant agencies to curb insecurity in my area. I have the firm believe that if the people are empowered positively particularly the youths, the level of crime will be reduced drastically. I will continue to do my very best in this direction.
Another thing that is very dear to my heart is the completion of the Ajaokuta Steel company and the National Iron Ore Mining Company. On assumption of office I set up a committee to articulate our position. I am pursuing it very vigorously and doing a lot of lobby and advocacy. I also commend and appreciate some good spirited individuals and interest groups, host communities and stakeholders for their immense contribution to the realization of the project.
