Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Jeremiah Timbut Useni has expressed grave concerned on the dilapidated state of Nigerian roads, particularly in the North Central States, and has therefore called on federal and state authorites to pay urgent attention in fixing them.
He made the appeal while playing host to newly elected officials of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondence Chapel, Plateau State Council on Friday in his residence in Jos.
Useni expressed worry that the terrible state of Nigerian roads could lead to more losses of lives and property in on regular basis. “I travelled on the dreaded Abuja – Kaduna road right up to Zaria. It was so bad it took us more time than in the past. Then from Zaria to Jos, and especially from Saminaka – that one is even worse. It was like there is no government on ground, even though I know Nigerians need more patience since governments cannot fix everything at once, especially in the face of the impact of COVID-19 on the economy.”
Useni used the opportunity to call on citizens to always embrace peace in all their dealings saying, “I believe that all tribes and languages are equal and must live in peace. We belong to God so no one should derive pleasure in taking away the life of another.”
Sen Useni also pointed out that there should be no IDP Camps. “The government should set up better accommodation for them and secure their towns and villages to enable them return home and lead normal lives. I am not sure the huge investments being made in keeping these camps open are reaching the people affected. They should be helped to stay with relations instead.”
Regarding the recent leadership challenges facing his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Useni said it is not peculiar with Plateau alone but he expressed optimism that, “it will amicably be resolved. I call on party faithful to remain calm as they await peaceful resolutions as we continue working towards achieving a level play ground for all members in order to form a stronger opposition that will put government on their toes.”
He appealed to journalists to report fairly, “If you report correctly, you are helping people. But if not you are making the national situation worse.”
Earlier, State Chairman of the NUJ Correspondence Chapel Gyang Bere said they were in Useni’s house to identify with him in his efforts at making the society a better place for all.
“No wonder you are called baba Mai Tuwo, because of your openness and touching the lives of people across dividing lines. We will stand by you as you work towards achieving peace, progress and Unity of North Central and Nigeria. Our search light as professionals will continue to beam on you. We will stand by you in the course of fighting injustices of whatever kind in the society as a father to us on the Plateau and Nigeria as a whole.”
The new leadership of the Correspondence Chapel will be inaugurated in November, and has requested Gen. Useni to play a very important role in securing the lives of the 56 members of the chapel as they perform their professional roles across the state.
SAWABIYANews 