Governor-elect of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has called on Anambrarians to support the incoming APGA government which will be spearheaded by him and his deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke, in other to make for a progressive government.

He made the call at an Inaugural Lecture held yesterday at the Women Development Centre, Awka, saying that mediocrity will not be condoned by his government but sincerity of purpose.

Obiano pointed out that for security to thrive in the state, people need to identify with the security personnel by disclosing information on the hideouts of criminals whether they are neighbours or friends, adding that police cannot mysteriously discern where criminals are hiding.

“We should look inwards to ensure that we abide by some of the things heard here today. Collectively, we will achieve a great success. We cannot do it alone; we need your assistance and constant prayers,” the governor-elect said.

The first speaker, Dr. Okey Ikechukwu, who spoke on the theme, ‘Anambra: Behold your survival toolkit’, said that the two keys to a successful government are strategic planning and long-term investment. He added that empowerment of more people with useful kits also play a role.

Ikechukwu stressed that for the needs to be achieved, government needs to pay attention to the replacement generation, empowerment, values as well as get into action through knowledge.

On the challenges, he noted that multiplicity of many platforms, absentee parenting, choosing the wrong people as role models, collapse of the local economy and values are part of the reason why most things are not done right in the society.

The one-time member, Editorial Board of Guardian Newspapers, while pointing out external challenges said: “The Nigerian state thrives on conspiracy while the Igbo man thrives on ability. The consciousness to create a group is lacking among the Igbos, hence the others take us for a ride.”

The second speaker, Rt. Rev. Paul Amechi Udeogu, Anglican Bishop of Afikpo Diocese, who spoke on the topic, ‘Morality in governance’, said that the present time is a time were the value system has been bastardised.

He said: “The old saying of a good name is better than silver and gold has been destroyed, respect for elders is gone. We live in a permissive society were all manner of ills are condoned, struggle for power and materialism has taken hold of the foundation of the world. Only few consider the need for the well being of the nation.”

Udeogu stressed the need for honesty and transparency on the part of those in authority, adding that morality demands that those leaders should appoint credible and qualified people to man various positions in government.

He also spoke on the need for prudent management of public funds, accountability and working for the general benefit of the populace and not making bourgeois promises that are not met at the end.

His words: “It places a demand that those bin governance must work for the benefit of the people. It is immoral to marginalise any sector and people should be allowed to make their choice. Political god fathers should give the elected officers space to do their work; it is evil for them to ask for returns or choose the number of people for appointment.

“Public servants should be made to give account of their expenditure especially those working for government and members of the National Assembly.

“People that God used to pick Obiano as a leader should allow him to work and those in government should not use their position to oppress those that are not privileged.”

In his vote of thanks, the Head of Service, Mr. Chidi Ezeoke, thanked the organisers of the programme headed by a governorship aspirant, Prince Chinedu Idigo, and urged them to make it a part of the government system.

•Photo shows Governor-elect Obiano.

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