The Politics of Inclusiveness in Abia State – A Beacon of Hope for a Brighter Future
Quietly embedded in the Eleanya Iro Campaign consultation yesterday, Saturday 26th October 2024, in Ohafia, I simply saw the essence for inclusiveness in Abia politics. I spent another 38 minutes, interviewing him on Abia State and politics in general. I saw a man whose association with the governor is divinely orchestrated. He espoused the need for all Abians to come together to prosecute a successful Abia.
Envisioning Unity
Imagine a scenario where Labor Party, Zenith Labor Party, PDP, APC, APGA, and other parties put aside their differences and work together for the greater good. This is the only way Abia State can truly take its rightful place on the world map.
Breaking Down Barriers
We’ve seen glimpses of this unity in action. For instance, the Abia State 30-Year Long Term Development Plan (2020-2050) was launched in 2021, a product of multi-stakeholder engagements involving various arms of the state government and reflecting the interests of the Abia people. This plan focuses on critical areas like agriculture, industry, trade and investment, oil and gas, health, education, social protection, governance, and infrastructure.
Collaborative Governance
Similarly, the Abia State Government has demonstrated its commitment to collaborative governance through initiatives like the Community Healthcare Delivery System. Stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary of the Abia State Ministry of Health, the Executive Secretary of the Abia State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, and local media agencies, have come together to address healthcare challenges in the state.
Key Principles
To make this politics of inclusiveness a reality, we need to adhere to key principles:
- Unity of Purpose: Putting the interests of Abia State above individual or party interests.
- Respectful Dialogue: Engaging in constructive discussions to find common ground.
- Collaborative Problem-Solving: Working together to address challenges.
- Accountability: Ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
The Way Forward
By embracing these principles, Abia State can become a model for inclusive politics in Nigeria. We must recognize that our diversity is a strength, not a weakness. By working together, we can:
- Foster Economic Growth: Through collaborative investments and policy initiatives.
- Improve Healthcare: By strengthening primary healthcare delivery systems.
- Enhance Education: Through joint efforts to improve educational infrastructure and resources.
- Promote Peace: By addressing conflicts through dialogue and mutual understanding.
A Call to Action
The time has come for Abia State to rise above party lines and work towards a common goal – a brighter future for all. Let’s make this vision a reality.
Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from Abiriba, Abia State, Nigeria.
