THE REALITY OF NDOKWA NATION'S SITUATION

Contrary to popular opinion, the Ndokwa nation has not been marginalized by the State or Federal Government. Instead, the issues plaguing the nation can be attributed to the alledged ineffective representation and leadership provided by its elected officials.

THE FAILURE OF ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES

There allegation that the House of Assembly and House of Representative members from Ndokwa nation have failed to adequately represent the interests of their constituents. Specifically, they have:

- Failed to properly request infrastructure development for Ndokwa nation, leaving Ndokwa nation without basic amenities and infrastructure.

- Demonstrated a lack of understanding of the legislative process, especially budgetary allocation of infrastructures, hindering their ability to effectively advocate for the nation's needs.

- Neglected to employ qualified Legislative Aids, instead opting for unqualified individuals who may not be able to provide adequate support.

- Failed to pay reasonable or approved emoluments to legislative staff, further exacerbating the problem.

- Employed non-Ndokwa individuals as Legislative Aids, rather than prioritizing the employment of qualified individuals from the Ndokwa nation.

- Prioritized personal interests, and sometimes the interests of their godfathers, over those of their constituents, rather than striking a balance between them.

THE IMPACT OF INEFFECTIVE APPOINTEES

The Ndokwa nation has appointees in various State Government agencies, including DESOPADEC, BOARD OF INTERNAL REVENUE, TOURISM BOARD, etc. However, the impact of these appointees are not felt in Ndokwa nation, suggesting that they are not effectively representing the interests of their constituents. Empowerment programs are also not often completely brought down to Ndokwa nation or are diverted, further exacerbating the problem. Empowerment programs should be such that can build up and/or empower a person to navigate through life.

CHALLENGES IN RELIEF DISTRIBUTION AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

The State Emergency Relief Agency (SERA) relief materials sometimes allegedly do not reach those in need in Ndokwa nation, or are not applied for by representatives on behalf of affected communities. 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMEN

Additionally, some Local Government Chairmen prioritize satisfying their godfathers over infrastructural development in their LGAs, neglecting their duty to serve the people. They should visit Lagos State and see what is happening their. Out LGAs are Agriculture based yet, I doubt if any has a Caterpillar or Bulldozer to assist her Farmers.

THE NEED FOR QUALIFIED LEADERSHIP 

There is a pressing need to recruit qualified and train YOUTHS as Political Aids to support development in Ndokwa nation. By investing in the next generation of leaders, the nation can build a brighter future and ensure that its interests are effectively represented.

Anthony Okolocha Odigwe