Onofiok Luke : EXEMPLAR OF POLITICS WITHOUT BITTERNESS In a society where mudslinging and slander have attended an alarming crescendo among politicians and at a time where character assassination, blackmail and pull him down syndrome seem to be the only blue print, manifesto and campaign slogan carefully crafted by politicians with inordinate ambitions to win public sympathy and support, two press releases yesterday from Hon (Barr) Onofiok Luke give me hope that there are still some good men in the murky waters of Nigerian politics. The first press release signed on his behalf by Mr Kufre Okon, his media assistant completely disassociated the legislator from an attack on his political opponent by a certain journalist in the state. The following lines of the press release as reported by an online blog (thinkakwaibom.blogspot/) caught my attention: “He(Onofiok Luke) appreciates the author of this article in trying to show him support, but noted that this should not be at the expense of another person’s or perceived opponent’s good image”. The statement noted. “Luke is an ardent believer in the possibility of playing politics without rancour and bitterness. He thinks it is only in a peaceful and tolerant political environment that public good can be better met”. The humanity of Onofiok Luke in disassociating himself from the attack on his political opponent, to use the exact words of Nse Ikpe, the online blogger is indeed “a rare occurrence in Akwa Ibom politics where mudslinging and outright blackmail seem to be a constant feature”. This is even more so, given the fact that our revered elders in the state were recently needlessly and unwarrantedly attacked by some overzealous youths whose only intent in such self suicidal mission was to impress their principals and openly show “their unflinching support and loyalty”. The second press release which I woke up this morning to see via his Facebook page was signed by the deeply cerebral and reticent youth leader himself reads in part: “I was earlier today appointed chairman, House committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources in the Akwa Ibom State house of Assembly. I use this opportunity to thank my Rt Hon Speaker, Elder Sam Ikon, the leadership of the House and the selection committee for deeming me fit to head the Agric committee., ..... I wish also to urge friends and supporters as well as political jobbers not to make any issue out of the change in the committees’ leadership. The speaker of the House has the prerogative to appoint whoever he wants into any committee.” This courageous and gentlemanly attitude of Barr Luke is most commendable given the ill feelings and wrong motives read into the change of leadership of standing committees of the house by some of his supporters and the ensuing tension it generated on the social media. It is now clear to me that Hon (Barr) Luke was born, trained and destined for leadership. It is obvious that he was born to shine, to soar above his peers and distinguish himself in whatever position he is entrusted with. For Barr Luke, seeing the youths rise to greatness and extricated from the claws of poverty is a task that must be accomplished. He has, at every available opportunity, reminded his supporters, believers, Akwa Ibom people and indeed all Nigerians of the need to promote democracy and respect human rights of all. These ideas stem from his belief that strong democracies are more likely to secure peace, deter aggression, expand markets, promote development, combat terrorism and crime, uphold rights of workers, avoid humanitarian crises, protect and improve the global environment, and protect human health. The distinguished legislator’s opinions and discourses on good governance, public service, constitutional reform, youth and women empowerment and national development cannot be lost to genuine lovers of our dear state. He had on many occasions demonstrated his love for the state above personal interest and taught others to do same. A study of his life has given me an insight into how hardwork, God’s grace, generosity, diligence and being meticulous can make a mortal to achieve greatness. Mr Luke’s policy of giving back to the people, particularly by empowering the less- privilege, women and youths across the country and his human relations complemented by his ability to listen to virtually everyone who seeks his attention have more than ever before assured me that a brighter and rewarding future beckons to Akwa Ibom Ibom people and the entire Nigerians through the tireless exertions of this youth leader of destiny.
Posted on: Wed, 17 Sep 2014 18:19:03 +0000