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Bayelsa is one of the most blessed states in Nigeria, as not less than 40% of the country's crude oil is derived from this state. It might interest you to know that this state is covered with 80-90% water and barely 10% land. Our rivers equally flow through to the Atlantic Ocean.
Despite being one of the most naturally blessed states, with a thriving economy, the lack of adequate security measures has become a major concern for its citizens. Everyday we face the issues of sea pirates and gunmen harassing and looting people's properties in the river.
Sometimes these sea pirates go as far as hijacking traveling ships and kidnapping the passengers as ransom for money. This has continued for decades now, although these pirates do not attack regularly, but whenever they decide to attack, they always succeed.
Just when you think these whole security issues ended in the sea, there comes the land robbers and cult boys causing havoc to those on land. The recent increase in cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, and cult-related activities has further highlighted the need for improvement in Bayelsa's security system.
So far, these security issues have brought so many consequences, as it doesn't just affect our daily lives but it's also hindering the state's development and growth. Imagine if as an investor or entrepreneur, you find out about the insecurities and potential risk involved in venturing a business within a particular state, would you still invest there? I believe your answer was no.
Like one of my friends would always say; for a state seeking development, all you need is a good road, electricity, and of course security. Nobody loves taking unnecessary risks, and I think that's the reason my state isn't as developed as other states in the country, even though we are one of the richest in petroleum.
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It is time for our government to prioritize the safety of its citizens and take necessary steps towards creating a safer environment for all. And that reminds me, talking about my government, how reliable are they?
I have grown to understand that good governance is the backbone of sustainable development in any state, including Bayelsa. Check every state and economy doing well today, and you will see good governance taking charge.
Good governance is supposed to embody transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making, ensuring that development projects, such as security improvements and public infrastructure upgrades, meet the needs of the community effectively.
But for Bayelsa state, I think we do not have the good governance we crave for. Every citizen of the state has been complaining bitterly about the selfishness of the government over the past few years. The last time we had this good governance was in 2005 during the time when Governor Goodluck Jonathan was in power, and some of the structures built back then are still sustaining us till today.
For Bayelsa to thrive, it requires leaders who are committed to prioritizing the well-being of its citizens, putting economic growth first, and efficiently utilizing resources for the greater good. We need a government that can shun all forms of violence and criminal activities.
The persistent threat of violence and criminal activities have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the people, making the state look like an abandoned project, lol. There is an urgent need for better security in Bayelsa to ensure that its citizens can pursue their daily activities without the constant fear of harm.
The government ought to know that security is not merely about law enforcement's response to crimes; but even more; it encompasses preventive measures, community policing, and the development of an active legal system that can immediately bring criminals to justice.
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And apart from the issue of security, my state needs more public structures such as schools, hospitals, and government buildings. Some of the current structures are old and require upgrades to meet modern standards of safety, accessibility, and efficiency.
My entry for day 25 of the InLeo monthly prompt, organized by the Leo team. You can check out the link here for participation.
