Micheal Joseph Okon – Ituk mbang, Uruan.
Pastor Umo Eno ‘s approach to governance is a shining example of how to maintain peace and harmony in a political leadership position. His ability to diffuse tensions and incitements to conflict is truly commendable, and his commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Akwa Ibom State is evident in his peaceful and focused administration.
As the scripture says of King Solomon, in 1 Kings 4:24
“For he had dominion over all the region on this side the river, from Tiphsah even to Azzah, over all the kings on this side the river: and he had peace on all sides round about him.”
Another scripture puts it more succinctly, 1 Kings 5:4
“But now the LORD my God hath given me rest on every side, so that there is neither adversary nor evil occurrent.” King Solomon
It is possible to have peace on all sides, and Pastor Umo Eno’s leadership is a testament to this. His administration’s emphasis on service delivery rather than investing in conflict and crisis management is a breath of fresh air, and a model that should be studied in political science courses in Nigeria citadels.
When an administration prioritizes peace, it is able to deliver the fruits of democracy to the people without unnecessary distractions. The bottom line of every administration should be service delivery, not war chest accumulation. In contrast, widespread acrimony and conflict only benefit crisis managers and top leaders, while the people suffer.
We pray that Pastor Umo Eno’s tenure continues in peace and tranquility for the next seven years, and that his leadership inspires others to follow in his footsteps. Akwa Ibom State is indeed blessed to have such a leader, and we hope that his example will be emulated by others for the betterment of our society.
As we gaze upon the tumultuous landscape of our political terrain, we are reminded of the wise words of Nelson Mandela, who said, ‘A leader…is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind.’ Pastor Umo Eno’s leadership is a perfect example of this wisdom, and we would do well to learn from his example. While others may be druming ethnic war cries and tribal difference, Pastor Umo Eno knows no barrier amongst the people if this great State as all tribes and ethnic groups are part of his success story.
Let us not forget the mistakes of other states, where infighting and conflict have led to stagnation and suffering. As the saying goes, ‘when elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.’ Let us instead follow Pastor Umo Eno’s lead, and prioritize peace and service delivery, that we may reap the dividends of democracy and build a better future for all.
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, ‘An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.’ Let us not fall into the trap of petty squabbles and infighting, but rather strive for unity and peace, that we may build a brighter future for ourselves and our children.
Pastor Umo Eno’s leadership is a beacon of hope in a world filled with conflict and division. Let us learn from his example, and strive to build a society where peace and harmony reign supreme, and the dividends of democracy are available to all.
As we look to the future, let us remember the wise words of Martin Luther King Jr., who said, ‘We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.’ Let us choose the path of peace and unity, and follow Pastor Umo Eno’s lead in building a better future for all. With Pastor Umo Eno, there is no Ibibio,no Annang,no Oro,no Obolo but one indivisible Akwa Abasi Ibom State.
Let us not forget that the ultimate goal of governance is to serve the people, not to perpetuate conflict and crisis. Pastor Umo Eno’s leadership remains an example of this principle, and we would do well to follow his example, that we may build a society where peace and prosperity reign supreme.
© Micheal Joseph Okon, Associate Chartered Economist ACE, Public Affairs Analyst.
13052024
