The opposition, in connivance with some of their allies in online
media, have perfected the art of serial attacks, laced with outright lies,
half-truths and malice just to rubbish every progressive innovative policy,
programme and delivery by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of his electoral promises as
captured by Prosperity to All Deltans. But these attacks are not new. They
have become trademarks of a frustrated and disgruntled opposition.
The financial challenges for all levels of government since this
administration came on board in May, 2015, is general knowledge. It may
therefore, not be necessary to chronicle the impact of the fall in crude oil prices
in the international market that culminated into flight of fund from the
Federation Account with associated gross cut by 60% in allocation to States in the
country. In addition, the administration inherited a strangulating
financial situation when it assumed office.
It is, however, important to acknowledge that crude oil sales
accounts for about 70% of Government revenue and 95% of foreign exchange. With
continuous crash in the crude oil price at international market, virtually all
States found it practically impossible to pay workers’ salaries, building and
maintaining infrastructure and providing social amenities for the people. In
fact, at a stage, the Federal Government had to be obtaining loans to pay
Federal civil servants’ salaries.
Despite the national financial tsunami, Governor Okowa has
redefined the meaning of governance in terms of real and sustainable
intervention that elevates the social wellbeing of the people. In the face of
the financial incapacitation, public works have continued across the three
senatorial districts.
The industrial peace and harmony enjoyed in the State despite the
recession and distress, is because the State government has endeavoured to meet
up with the payment of salaries as at when due. The tertiary institutions are
not left out.
Collective amnesia typical of today’s opposition, especially the
attitude of not valuing our visionaries until their exit, and the vile politics
of opposition and their bought-over online media platforms – all will not take
away the facts and records as they tangibly stand and will endure for future
generations to appreciate. It is legacy and history that matter, and Governor Okowa
will definitely be placed on the good side of history.
All we can do now, is pray that the current national economic
recession should go away sooner than later.
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