First of all, let it be noted by all, that the purpose of politics is good governance! Politics is that system, process or activity by which the institutions of government are geared to produce public good and citizen welfare. A politician therefore is one who works for the good of his/her constituents! By politician, I do not refer to those profiteers who masquerade as political leaders and office holders!
It is in that context that I write.
Now, in Northern Cross River, since the time of Ben Ayade, any critique of a public office holder is seen almost as sacrilege! I recall the series of advice I gave to Gov Ben privately and later publicly. In his eyes and the eyes of the olodo appointees around him, Ben was infallible. If Ben had taken the counsel I gave him, Northern Cross River would have been better for it.
Instead, he embarked on a vendetta against me and all other well meaning Cross Riverians who tried to steer him in the right direction. His current political eclipse could have been averted if he was amenable to good conscience and good counsel.
That brings me to current Politics of CRS North. Certainly, Senator Jarigbe is exceptional. He commands the love and support of the people completely and totally as a result of his own show of capacity, competence and outreach.
Deputy Governor Peter is equally exceptional. He is doing well despite the limitations imposed by the office he holds. As everyone knows, a deputy governor is constrained by the constitution. In spite of that, Hon Peter Odey is impactful in matters that affect the people.
But same cannot be said of the other political gladiators within the ruling party who seem to thrive in blackmail, gossip and backstabbing.
As a matter of fact, many of these characters rather than work hard to emulate Jarigbe and show workings, they would rather portray mischief and fraud.
Let me sound a warning, no one will take our people for granted and win any elections.
As for Prof Zana, many of us know his capacity and the high esteem with which our people hold him. Those who think that party will see them through had better think again.
I will not write about my younger brother Offiono anymore. I can only say that people should learn a lesson from his travails and loss of ticket. When an office holder begins to regard advice as insolence, then he will find the proverbial banana peel waiting for him.
As for my younger sister Stella Odey, she has a lot of work to do. Let no one in the ruling party regard their victory as assured.
They should not make that mistake at all. The very recent experience of former Governor Ben should be a lesson for all. No matter the party, victory is assured to any contestant who works for the good of the people. Contestants should see this as free consultancy and advice from someone who knows more than he says! Get?
I remain
Ray U Morphy
Cross River Elder