Imo Born U.S Based Educationist,Nwokeji Laments Non Conduct of Local Government Polls In Imo State

OKOROCHA

 Imo State born United States based educationist,Prof Chris Nwokeji has strongly lamented the non conduct of local government elections in Imo State under Rochas Okorocha administration since five years ago and asked the Imo State governor to respect the constitution which he swore to uphold.

Speaking to newsmen recently, Nwokeji said the action of the State government is an aberration and unconstitutional, wondering why LGA elections have not been held at the third tier of government which is closest to the grassroots. 

He reasoned that Section 7(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria expressly guarantees elected officers to oversee the affairs of the local councils at all times. It succinctly stipulates, “The system of Local Government by democratically elected local government councils is under this constitution guaranteed;”

He lambasted the state government for the non conduct of the polls at the local governments and noted that the situation indicates that funds from the federation account to the LGAs have been diverted for other purposes, wondering how the State government has not been able to give account of funds accrued to the LGAs for the past five years.

Nwokeji said it is totally unacceptable, urging Imolites to question the present administration why it is stifling the local governments by failing to conduct elections and allowing the people duly elected by indigenes and residents of those council areas who really understand the needs of their people to manage the resources of those council areas for the best interest of their people.

He described the appointment of Transition or Caretaker Committees as illegal since the Constitution clearly insists that the local governments must be run by democratically elected Chairmen and Councilors.

The United States trained educationist also wondered why a government which ought to protect the interest of those who elected it should toy with the idea of downsizing staff in government employment at this critical time saying, a governor is just like a father to all citizens and non-citizens who live in the state. He reasoned that any father who cannot uncomplainingly make sacrifices for the interest of his children is not worthy to be a father.

The Oru East born Prince warned the governor of the grave social consequences of such action and advised him to devise ways of maintaining the work force and possibly be creative enough to find ways of engaging our youths in gainful, secure jobs, just like his predecessors did in the face of obvious fiscal problems and other constraints. He also advised the governor to desist from raising alarms over un-alarming situations and be man enough to handle tough problems calmly. That, he said, is one of the essentials qualities of a leader.

Nwokeji enjoined Imolites to eschew the situation, just like in the case of  Esau, whereby they may be tempted to sell their birthrights just for plates of porridge next time. 

He however, encouraged them to be strong and motivated to right, rational and legitimate approach to dispensing with leaders who cannot measure up, as it is their right and privilege to do so under the law to deepen democracy.