By Samue Ogude
There is a popular saying that bad news travels faster than good news. Throughout history, people have often been quicker to criticize than to appreciate genuine efforts aimed at improving society. While constructive criticism is necessary in any democratic setting, unjustified attacks, false accusations and character assassination only discourage those working tirelessly for the common good.
Sadly, many individuals are quick to point out the faults of others while overlooking their own shortcomings. No matter how much sacrifice or commitment some leaders demonstrate in improving the lives of their people, there are always those who choose to focus only on perceived shortcomings instead of acknowledging the progress that has been made. One question that continues to puzzle many is: why do some people derive satisfaction from pulling others down without just cause? Rather than supporting positive initiatives, they engage in campaigns of blackmail and misinformation, often driven by personal interests or disappointment over unfulfilled expectations.
It is against this backdrop that the Ijaw Women Rights Protection Forum (IWRPF) recently condemned what it described as persistent attacks on the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, as well as Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, High Chief Kestin Pondi, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha and other notable Niger Delta leaders.
According to the group, these leaders have played significant roles in promoting peace, security, economic development and environmental protection across the Niger Delta. Their contributions, the women argued, deserve appreciation rather than relentless criticism and campaigns of blackmail.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Hilda Amogha, the forum expressed concern over what it described as unnecessary accusations and deliberate attempts to tarnish the reputations of individuals who have committed their resources and influence to the development of the region. The group maintained that before many of these leaders emerged, the Niger Delta had suffered decades of neglect, environmental degradation, unemployment, insecurity and inadequate infrastructure. While many challenges still exist, they argued that meaningful progress has been recorded and should not be ignored.
The women further emphasized that development is a gradual process. As the saying goes, “Rome was not built in a day”. It is unrealistic to expect every community need to be addressed simultaneously. Instead of condemning those making efforts, citizens should encourage them while demanding accountability through responsible and constructive engagement.
The forum also appealed to youths and individuals who may be seeking appointments, empowerment or recognition to exercise patience. According to the group, frustration should never become an excuse for engaging in smear campaigns or the pull-down syndrome that has continued to divide the region. “You do not need to destroy another person simply because you have not yet received what you are looking for. There is enough room for everyone to contribute to the development of the Niger Delta,” the statement read.
The Ijaw Women Rights Protection Forum acknowledged that no leader is above criticism. However, it stressed that criticism should be constructive, objective and aimed at improving governance rather than destroying reputations or creating unnecessary hostility among the people. The group warned that persistent internal conflicts and campaigns of hatred would only weaken the Niger Delta while other regions continue to make progress. It therefore urged Niger Deltans to embrace unity, celebrate one another’s achievements and engage their leaders with maturity and a genuine desire for development.
“If we unite, support good initiatives and hold our leaders accountable with maturity, we can build a stronger and more respected Niger Delta. Our people are watching us. The younger generation is watching us”, the statement added. Ultimately, sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, unity and mutual respect. While leaders must remain accountable to the people, society also has a responsibility to recognize genuine efforts and encourage those working for the advancement of the region.
The message from the women is clear: the Niger Delta stands to gain more through unity than division. By speaking with one voice, supporting positive initiatives and rejecting the culture of pulling one another down, the region can achieve greater peace, prosperity and lasting development for present and future generations.