Most of the challenges some leaders face during and after their tenure from those who voted them in result from a lack of opportunity to receive feedback from their constituents. Some leaders have sent out several dividends of democracy to their people, as they themselves cannot reach every individual directly due to their official commitments. However, ensuring that these benefits reach the intended recipients remains a key challenge.
It is essential to evaluate one’s input and compare it with the output to determine whether the efficiency justifies the effort and, if not, to identify the causes of inefficiency.
A few days ago, I came across commendable efforts by an Honorable member representing my federal constituency. His actions deserve recognition, as only a leader truly committed to the well-being of his constituents would take such an initiative.
In a bid to further strengthen the APC and ensure the equitable distribution of democratic dividends, Hon. Tijani Ahmed Ozigi established teams to monitor the implementation of his constituency projects. These teams were tasked with verifying whether the benefits reached the intended recipients and reassuring those yet to receive theirs that their turn would come soon.
According to Hon. Godwin’s Facebook page (his Personal Assistant), the team, led by Hon. Aduke, conducted the first phase of their assignment in Okene Local Government Area, implying that the second phase would take place in Ogori-Magongo LGA. They visited all the eleven wards in Okene LG, where many beneficiaries testified about the empowerment programs facilitated by Hon. Tijani Ahmed Ozigi. Meanwhile, those who had not yet benefited directly also voiced their concerns.
The constituents expressed their appreciation for his efforts in facilitating solar streetlights for their communities, renovating schools, and providing boreholes to address water scarcity. Parents of those he helped secure jobs, as well as individuals whose hospital bills and school fees he covered, also commended him for his support.
In the news, the team leader acknowledged that the challenges in the constituency could not be resolved within just four years, emphasizing the importance of continuity in governance—an undeniable truth. He reassured the people that Hon. Tijani Ahmed Ozigi remained committed to the trust they placed in him by electing him as their federal representative and would continue to advocate for their interests.
Additionally, he highlighted Governor Ododo’s dedication to the welfare of the people, asserting that being an APC member was a decision no one would regret. “We are on the right path to developing our community,” he said.
Quoting Hon. Tijani Ahmed Ozigi’s usual saying, he added, “Always pass it on to the next person as soon as you receive.” He urged beneficiaries to use their empowerment as a stepping stone to start something meaningful and, in turn, empower others around them.
This visit also served to document the impact of Hon. Tijani Ahmed Ozigi’s initiatives since assuming office and to identify challenges raised by constituents, which, by God’s grace, will be addressed accordingly.
As a leader, it is crucial to have a team that ensures the benefits intended for the people actually reach them. This helps in assessing whether those entrusted with the task are genuine allies or obstacles to progress.
May Allah continue to strengthen and guide him for us.
– Engr Ira Habib writes from Lokoja.
