Okowa, Ukwuani & The Question Of Accountability After Eight Years
By BEST NNAZOM
The Politics of Loyalty and the Burden of Expectations
ONE of the more striking developments in recent weeks has been the vigorous defence of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa by many social media users from Ukwuani and Ndokwa communities following allegations involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
What makes the situation particularly noteworthy is the perception among some observers that the most passionate defenders of the former governor are not necessarily from his immediate political base. While debates continue across political and legal circles, many supporters from Ukwuani have taken to online platforms to challenge accusations and defend his record in office.
This development has prompted a difficult but necessary conversation about political loyalty, community interests, and the long-term benefits of unwavering support for political leaders.
A Question Worth Asking
For many residents, the issue is not merely about whether allegations against a former governor are justified or not. Rather, it is about evaluating what tangible benefits communities received during his eight-year administration.
The argument being advanced by some critics is straightforward: if communities invested substantial political capital in supporting a leader, then those communities should be able to point to corresponding developmental achievements.
The concern arises when citizens appear more committed to defending political figures than assessing whether those leaders fulfilled promises made during their tenure.
This has led to questions about whether political allegiance has overshadowed objective evaluation of governance outcomes.
The Development Gap
Supporters of this viewpoint argue that despite years of political support, several communities in Delta North and Delta Central continue to grapple with fundamental development challenges.
Issues such as unreliable electricity supply, youth unemployment, deteriorating road networks and limited industrial growth remain recurring concerns.
Particular attention has been drawn to the long-standing discussions surrounding power infrastructure and the possibility of extending independent power initiatives to areas that continue to suffer persistent electricity shortages.
For many residents, access to stable power would represent more than an infrastructure project. It would create opportunities for businesses, attract investment and stimulate local economic activity.
Critics contend that such projects would have delivered more lasting benefits than politically visible infrastructure projects concentrated elsewhere.
Infrastructure Versus Community Priorities
The debate also reflects broader questions about how governments determine development priorities.
Large infrastructure projects often serve as visible symbols of governance performance. Flyovers, highways and public buildings are tangible achievements that can easily be showcased during and after an administration.
However, some residents argue that less visible investments such as electricity generation, industrial parks, vocational training programmes and job creation initiatives often produce deeper and more sustainable economic benefits.
From this perspective, development should be measured not only by what citizens can see, but also by what improves their daily lives.
The Need for Political Accountability
At the heart of the discussion is a call for accountability.
Democratic governance thrives when citizens are willing to assess leaders based on outcomes rather than political affiliation.
The argument is not necessarily that political leaders should be condemned. Rather, it is that public support should be accompanied by scrutiny, especially after long periods in office.
For communities seeking accelerated development, the challenge is to move beyond emotional political attachment and focus on measurable progress.
Looking Beyond Personalities
Ultimately, the debate surrounding the former governor’s legacy offers a broader lesson about governance and citizenship.
Communities prosper when political engagement is driven by interests, policies and results rather than personalities.
As new political cycles emerge, many residents believe the focus should shift toward demanding infrastructure, employment opportunities, reliable electricity and economic empowerment.
In that view, defending politicians may generate social media engagement, but only sustained demands for accountability can deliver lasting development.
