The laudable vision of an industrial steel city was conceived almost five decades ago. Unfortunately, it ran into hitches, deliberate and self-serving mischief over the last four decades.
Every Ebira person and other well-meaning Nigerians desire the revitalisation of the twin project. The acquired site, predicated on proximity to the source of major raw materials, the navigable lower Niger river as access route to the world through the coast and the overall central location made Ebiras the host.
It was great delight to some of us when Engr. Sumaila Abdul-Akaaba succeeded a fellow Ebira kinsman as the first son of Ajaokuta LGA to lead the establishment in the continued quest for its revitalisation. Before then, we’ve had Late Alhaji Idris Atta as its first Chief Executive.
It’s being a long drawn battle with several hopes dashed. Various leaders and individuals at different times have stood up to be counted. Our individual and collective memories would help in keeping these in appropriate perspective.
Some may have played some roles with questionable intent, while others may have overplayed their roles with positive intent. Suffice to note that as our hopes are once again raised by recent events amidst some controversies. Current claims across political divides serve as a reminder that we all know and appreciate what is desirable and good for all, beyond selfish and self-serving schemings.
Hopefully, the leaders across boards will learn fast enough to draw lines between activism and purposeful opposition; personal agrandisment, and all inclusive leadership. Stop the reprehensible quest to annihilate dissenting voices and all out personal vendetta. With a common goal as this, differences in approach, political vehicle, or driving forces should not create rock solid barriers that would block our sights and appreciation of positive efforts across divides.
Whatever the claims today, a reminder that we owe a lot as Ebiras to the person of late Alh. AbdulAziz Atta, in respect of our host status, may just be worthwhile.
– Suleiman Omuya Abdulrahman, a Medical Doctor writes from Saudi Arabia