Senator Ahmed Ogembe was an executive chairman of Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State before he got elected as the senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial district. In this interview with AYODELE ADESANMI , he insists that leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have to call the two gladiators involved in the battle for Kogi State, Governor Yahaya Bello and Senator Dino Melaye, to order in order for the state to have peace. Excerpts:
What is your opinion concerning the crisis rocking Kogi State as a result of the disagreement between Governor Bello and Senator Dino Melaye?
You need to understand the workings of the Senate. Senator Dino Melaye raised a point of order and under order 43, which is personal explanation. He gave an account of the ugly incident in which he was attacked while in his constituency and it is only the Senate President that can rule or comment afterwards. Melaye called for the state of emergency in Kogi State. To me, the duo are very close friends, sooner than later, l believe they will find a way to solve their problems. I wish they could close ranks in the interest of the state as the feud is attaining a dangerous dimension. They should realise that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of acrimony. I have spoken to Senator Melaye privately to come to a resolution of all the issues between him and Governor Bello, in the interest of all Kogites, but you should also be aware that the issues at stake are largely internal which is between two APC members which I wouldn’t want to be an interloper in their affairs. I feel very strongly that their party, the APC and the leaders have vital roles to play to bring the crisis to an end. On my part, I will continue to advise that good reasons should prevail.
In Kogi State, there have been serious outcry about the non-payment of salary. What are your comments on this?
We are all aware of the recession in the country, which has led to the reduction in monthly federal allocation to states which is not limited to Kogi State alone. We are also aware that past administrations had also shown serious concern over the monthly wage bill. Many people are aware of the several screening exercises carried out in the state to authenticate the actual population of the civil servants in the state, but these exercises have been quite unsuccessful. I am also aware that the recently concluded screening exercise embarked upon by the present administration of Alhaji Bello came with a lot of hardship, but I am sure that at the end of the whole exercise salaries will be normalised and paid though it is becoming too late. I have heard the governor saying on several occasions that no genuine worker will be shortchanged or victimised. My advice is that those who have genuine cases should use every administrative procedure to get loose ends rectified. I am also using this medium to call on the state government to expedite action and pay workers salaries. Happily, I understand that the verification exercise have been concluded.
The 2017 budget has just been approved and assented, what essentially, are those things you attracted to the people of your district to benefit?
I have been able to influence some projects to my area, but essentially, l will continue to monitor the implementation and execution of the projects. My people would benefit immensely from the implementation of the 2017 budget. However, in specific terms, I was instrumental to the inclusion of the provision of transformers to improve electricity supply in my area, likewise water projects. The construction of a pedestrian bridge in the Adavi Council Area and the supply of sporting equipment to secondary schools, medical equipment for general hospitals in Okene and Adogo; construction of Model Junior School buildings; rehabilitation of federal highways, youth and women empowerment programmes are part of the inputs in the budget for my people.
You have just concluded the first half of the four year term, what are your plans for second term?
As a legislator, I will continue to ensure that my impact is felt through sponsoring of bills and motions that have direct bearing on my people. You are aware that I moved the motion on compulsory insurance which has been implemented especially the motor insurance scheme across the country. I also have mandatory haemoglobin test bill, which will revolutionise the health sector for good and curb the sickle cell anaemia menace, this bill is already slated for second reading.
I will also, through lobbying, influence implementation of projects for my constituents. Already, l have carried out some empowerment programmes for women and youths across the five council areas which makes up my senatorial district. I hope to sustain the tempo until most of my people become self-reliant. I am also working with relevant agencies to curb insecurity in my area in order to reduce the level of crime . I will continue to do my very best in this direction.
However, another thing that is very dear to my heart is the completion of the Ajaokuta Steel Company and the National Iron Ore Mining company both in my district. Immediately after my swearing in, l set up a committee to articulate our position on these projects. I am presently pursuing it vigorously and doing a lot of lobbying and advocacy towards the completion. Towards the completion of these projects, l commend and appreciate some good spirited individuals and interest groups, host communities and stakeholders for their immense support to the realisation of the dreams. l am assuring them during this tenure that the projects would come into fruition.
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