THE LEO OGOR SERIES: SEASON 3 (THE LEO OGOR YOU NEVER KNEW) EXPERIENCE IS INDISPENSABLE One of the banes of politics in the Third World is lack of continuity in policy formulation. Experience is everything and without experience amongst ones peers, one will count for nothing. This understanding has been the driving force why the Isoko people has always supported Hon Leo Ogor in his quest for re-election into the National Assembly. Thus, in 2007, he was re-elected into the House of Representatives and further re-elected in 2011 for a third term. His level of acceptability is a function of his achievements and good conduct in touching lives positively. One point of interest in the personality of Rt Hon Leo Ogor is the fact that he is not a lone ranger. He network and works perfectly with other political leaders and has seamless relationship with them. His wealth of experience at the National Assembly has paid off. Chairmanship of choice committees in the National Assembly is one sure way of attracting dividends of democracy to members constituency. Without having an influential voice in the House, one will never be considered for any serious ranking headship of committee. It is worthwhile to note that right from day one in the hallowed chambers, Rt Hon Leo Ogor has never been a bench warmer. As early as 2003, he was the Chairman Ad-hoc Committee that investigated the alleged irregularities in the NITEL/MTEL/PENTASCOPE management contract. He was also co-chair, House Committee that investigated the activities of NNPC and its subsidiaries from 1999-2011. His headship of the Committee that investigated the transaction that took place between the Federal Ministry of Finance and Single Window Systems and Technology limited is a measure of the confidence reposed in him by the leadership of the House. Fondly called The General by colleagues at the House of Representatives due to his vibrancy, brilliant and undisputed submission, vast knowledge on legislative matters, ability to coerce members into submission on the floor of the House during plenary and also navigate the House contour with ease, Rt Hon Leo Ogor, no doubt, brought his experience to bear on delicate matters on the floor of the House. He discharged his responsibility without reproach when he chaired the House Ad-hoc Committee that investigated the illegal transactions between the Federal Government and Malabu Oil and Gas Limited. His second stint at the National Assembly culminated into his chairmanship of the House Committee on Governmental Affairs between 2007-2011. Even without a law degree, his knowledge of the relevant section of the 1999 constitution as ammended is legendary. He is currently the Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and leader south south caucus, a position he has maximized to the advantage of the Isoko people and to the envy of his colleagues. The quantum of developmental initiatives Leo has attracted to Isoko land is only possible because he is a ranking member of the House. More importantly, his pursuit of the desire to transform Isokoland by attracting social infrastructures such as solar powered street lights, roads, drainages and water projects are loud testimonials of a man keen on changing the fortunes of his people. There is no doubt that there is a limit to what the Honourable members could do because of separation of powers in national politics. Also despite the unemployment challenges in Nigeria, there is however compelling evidence to show that a number of Isoko sons and daughters have been employed in the various Federal agencies such as the Road Safety, Customs, Immigration, the Police Force, Navy, Civil Defence and many others. His approach to politics which is developmental and constructive has added a new nomenclature to the perception of what it takes to be a team player in the National Assembly. There is a clear dichotomy in momentary satisfaction of individual needs to that of collective and community needs which to all intents and purposes are more enduring because they are for the common good of all. Rt Hon Leo Ogor has always ensure that the amenities attracted to communities are direct and pressing needs of the various communities in Isokoland rather than white elephant projects. A catalogue of the projects that Hon. Leo Ogor has attracted to Isokoland is enough campaign legacies that speak volume. These laudable achievements are enough justification for experience and continuity in politics. Hon Leo Ogor has never coerced anyone into politics. This is due to the fact that in politics, as in religion, it is equally absurd to aim at making proselytes by fire and sword. WATCH OUT FOR SEASON 4 OF THE SERIES TOMMOROW
Posted on: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 04:59:31 +0000