In recent times, the pages of social media platforms have become a battleground for political propaganda, inundated with self-serving narratives propagated by various image launderers.Â
These narratives pit major political figures, including Eteng Jones, Senator representing Cross River Central, Yibala Igiri, Chairman, Yakurr LGA, Cyril Omini, member, Criss River State House of Assembly, representing Yakurr I and Oden Ewa, a Commissioner in Cross River State, against one another in an imagined contest for the so-called “soul of Yakurr politics.” While these individuals have demonstrated commendable capacity and leadership in their respective domains, this manufactured power struggle threatens to destabilize the political equilibrium and undermine the collective aspirations of the Yakurr Nation.
This fratricidal contest, devoid of altruistic intent, is not for the greater good of our people but a selfish scramble for dominance. The implications of such needless strife are profound and far-reaching. It risks fracturing the unity within the All Progressives Congress , APC, and jeopardizing the landslide victories that have become the hallmark of our political enterprise in Yakurr Local Government Area.
Leadership: Beyond Political Office
It is imperative to reiterate that leadership transcends the confines of political office. The mark of a true leader lies not in the titles they hold but in their vision, their capacity to inspire, and their commitment to the welfare of their people. Leadership emerges organically when individuals demonstrate competence, integrity, and a profound understanding of the needs and aspirations of their communities. Political office, while important, is not the exclusive domain of leadership.
To our esteemed political gladiators, I say this: sheath your swords. This internecine conflict is a distraction from the real work of governance and development. It serves no purpose other than to fan the flames of discord, alienate the electorate, and weaken our collective strength. The Yakurr people deserve better than this spectacle of self-aggrandizement.
A Clarion Call to the Youths
The youths of Yakurr must not allow themselves to be reduced to pawns in this game of political chess. The peanuts offered by political paymasters in exchange for loyalty and service are no substitute for the dignity and agency of an independent mind. History is replete with examples of young people who have been used as cannon fodder in political battles, only to be discarded when the dust settles. Let us learn from these lessons and refuse to be instruments of division and chaos.
The Role of Elders and Stakeholders
As a major stakeholder and elder in Yakurr politics, I call on my fellow elders to rise above complacency and play a mediative role in restoring order and sanity. It is our duty to act as custodians of peace, ensuring that the actions of the younger generation are guided by wisdom and foresight. We cannot afford to sit on the fence while our political landscape is plunged into chaos.
A Plea to Governor Senator Prince Bassey Otu
As the leader of the APC in Cross River State, state governor, Bassey Edet Otu, has a pivotal role to play in steering the ship of Yakurr politics back on course. Your Excellency, the time has come to assert your leadership and intervene decisively. The Yakurr Local Government Area, given its strategic importance in the political configuration of Cross River State, cannot afford to be engulfed in needless strife. Your proactive engagement is essential in fostering unity, restoring order, and ensuring that the APC retains its dominance in the region.
A Call for Unity and Focus
The Yakurr people have always been known for their resilience, unity, and progressiveness. It is this spirit that has propelled us to great heights in the political and socio-economic spheres. Let us not allow petty rivalries and personal ambitions to erode the foundations of our collective strength. Instead, let us channel our energies towards building a united, prosperous, and progressive Yakurr Nation.
Finally, I urge all stakeholders – political gladiators, youths, elders, and the leadership of our great party—to put the interests of the Yakurr people above personal ambitions. The path to enduring greatness lies in unity, selflessness, and a shared commitment to the greater good. Let us seize this moment to demonstrate that we are not only capable of leadership but also worthy of the trust and confidence of our people.
Sam Eno, PhD, an elder and stakeholder, Yakurr Nation, wrote in from Abuja.
