PETER OBI AND WATER IN ANAMBRA STATE

EMMA OKWUAHABA

The ongoing debate about the problem of water in Anambra State calls to mind a lot of reflections.

1.     When Peter Obi came into office in 2003 he met a defunct Anambra State Water Board. This should not shock one because it is not out of place in a nation eaten deep by endemic corruption where payment is made for no service. This is why it is a fact of certainty when one says that a lot of these otiose and ghost  workers are earning salaries in states spread across the Federation. Such decadence and laxity as this is not for the best interest of a nation aiming to become the Super Giant of Africa.



It is interesting to note that while other civil servants laboured in their various ministries these workers were being paid for doing nothing. This situation is highly pathetic both in Anambra State and elsewhere because nowhere in the world can sanity justify the reward of indolence. This is why the situation in Anambra state is particularly pathetic.

2.     A government that cannot supply water to its citizens has lost all legitimacy to governance..... Elombah



With the help of the administration of Mr Peter Obi, a lot of effort has gone into providing portable water for the indigenes of Anambra State. Mr Peter Obi assumed office on a remarkable note of efficiency and dexterity. Because of this, he attracted the presence of a host of foreign donors and influences which has improved remarkably the quality of lives of Anambra indigenes. Boreholes that have been sunk in Anambra under his administration run into thousands.



Thus, a question arises as Elombah suggests“ what legitimacy does a governor (or president) who is not able to provide his citizens with portable water to continue in office?



My take: Such governor should RESIGN



It is depressing to note that there are cohorts of such governors in Nigeria. Thrown against this lazy cohort is a man who stands tall and ebullient Gov Peter Obi of Anambra State. Suffice it to say that all rural communities in Anambra state have felt Gov Obi's water project scheme and they bear eloquent testimony.



The Nwafor Orizu water scheme and the Amawbia water scheme are just few examples of the governor's consummate efforts in some semi-urban communities.