The continuing existence of our different people as a state for 24 years in spite of tenuous strains to our unity is by all standards a great achievement. Even though the lofty dreams of our founding
fathers remain largely unfulfilled, our ability to stick together and keep our hopes for a better state, should spur us to greater efforts to overcome our present problems and build a state we can all be proud of.
However, as we roll out the drums on 27th of august in commemoration of this remarkable occasion, it is necessary to reflect deeply on the state’s journey so far. It is apposite that we take stock of all that we have done well and the ones we bungled, with a view to making amends and getting back on the track that could lead us to the type of state, which we all dream. It is, indeed, sad that our
state continues to grope in the dark in many areas of development in spite of the abundant wealth at the disposal of our political leaders, past and present.
It is a pity that despite the rebasing of Kogi’s economy, its acclaimed growth has not reflected in the lives of most Kogites. The economy is still in the doldrums. It is necessary to save majority of
Kogites from the thralldom of poverty and socio-economic alienation.
At 24, the government should be able to provide basic infrastructure in all parts of the state. Things like good roads, potable water, steady electricity, functional education, security and efficient
healthcare system should cease to be campaign issues. They are basic things that the government should provide without being wrestled by the people before doing so.
As we approach the 2015 governorship elections, the government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should ensure that the exercise is credible, free and fair. All the security agents involved in the polls, political parties, politicians, their supporters and, indeed, all Kogites should conduct themselves well and ensure that the election is not marred by unscrupulous elements. The electoral agency should be above board and give the state a poll that we can all be proud of. INEC should be well funded to ensure that it has the needed materials and logistics to conduct polls. It is not debatable that the electoral umpire has a big role to play in ensuring a smooth and credible poll. Let INEC not disappoint this time round.
Our state has not, for a long time, witnessed the kind of tribal and religious divides that are now plaguing the present political dispensation. We have been so badly divided that almost everything,
including public appointments and policies, are viewed from ethnic and religious prisms. If we desire to forge ahead as one entity, there is need to eschew all divisive tendencies and work as one united state.
Our diversity should be a source of strength and not a cause of unnecessary division and rancor. There is the need for ethical reorientation and attitudinal change for us to make Kogi a great and
united state.
All hands must be on deck to ensure that the unity of the state is sustained.
Balogun Emmanuel Funsho, an indigene of Kabba is a graduate of University Of Ilorin. He can be reached via irule9ja@gmail.com or on 07034444976.
