As an antidote to the frequent bickering between legislators in Nigeria, Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sir. Ude Oko Chukwu has called on leaders of legislative houses to show transparency in their dealings to earn the confidence of their members.
Oko Chukwu said this has become necessary in order to avert the frequent bickering which has often led to the high turnover of speakers in state legislatures in Nigeria.
In a chat with newsmen at his country home, Etitiama Nkporo in Ohafia local council, the speaker said only this would ensure that infightings and misgivings are reduce to the barest minimum.
“Leadership is an innate attribute. When you are operating in an environment like the legislature, you must recognize the fact that all of you are equals. Be aware that every one of them is a potential Speaker. Also know that being at the helm of affairs does not make you higher than your colleagues. You are only there to serve them.
On the magic behind the peaceful nature of the 5th House unlike the bickering that characterized the tenure of past legislators in Abia state, Oko Chukwu said, “I’m aware of those things that cause problems. You can avert crisis by being transparent. I see myself as their servant, not their leader. Above all, you have to operate an open door policy. You have to be transparent and open to them. Treating them as equals will make you enjoy their confidence.
“Once you operate in this way kind of environment, nobody will feel cheated or belittled. There will be harmonious relationship in the House,” the speaker remarked.
.Oko Chukwu who explained that there is a perfect working relationship between the state legislature and the executive arm of government, added that the House cannot afford to disappoint the people on whose goodwill and support they were elected and commended the press for their coverage of the activities of the 5th House.
