IN THE LIKES OF DUKE
By Caisy Gidson

A man that changed the fortune of his People and State, applied good governance, replaced shame of a people with pride. In eight years the social, cultural, economic and political life of Cross Rivers State was transformed by sheer leadership.

Before the coming of Messer Duke, the State of Cross River and her People were dejected and low, housekeeping and street hawking were what their women were known for, their men has competence only in gate keeping, hawking and other menial skills.

Growing up, it Is a known fact that Natives of this State are not particularly proud of where they come from, it's an insult to refer to someone as "Calabarman".

Today one of the most cosmopolitan City In the Country is Calabar, the Capital of Cross River is adjudged as the cleanest City in the Country, the most visited City in Nigeria, the City that attracts national and international conferences, events and tournaments more than any in Nigeria.

The transformation of her People is one that is rather dramatic, the most beautiful people inhabits that land, try taking a wife now and ask those who got married before 2003 the difference is explicit, now an average Cross Riverian is a proud man their women embodies elegance and glamour. The socioeconomic posture of the State bears the image of an advancing economy.

The man who laid the foundation for this transformation, owned the vision, was prepared for the job, had strong competence, had his People to buy in to his vision, he identified the right skill sets and know how, People who believed in his vision to drive it, his mission was clear and simple to decern by all.

It took a man, one Young Mind with a clear vision and a simple mission to spur a paradigm shift for the advancement of his State. Before politics, he lead and built a successful private enterprise.

One's competence and antecedence must be taken considered by the Electorates when intent to serve in a position of trust has been made. The case of disservice, ineptitude and crass that pervade governance and leadership in this dispensation is the evidence of poor citizens action and electoral choice.

Donald Duke and his likes are the ones that can begin that needed change, the coming of another elections is nigh, the choice we make is simple but resounding when it's wrong.

Booked