Arrested Development

It is never easy to be a primus inter pares (first among equals) and for Lagos, which reportedly generates and contributes over 75 per cent of the total tax revenue in Nigeria on a monthly and annual basis, it is even tougher and lonelier.

All anyone needs to confirm its envied status among the 37 states is for one to visit Lagos and see the ongoing development and infrastructural projects scattered in various stages around the metropolis; from Oshodi to Agege, from Ikeja-along to Lagos- Badagry Expressway and even trafficinfested Apapa, the country’s maritime gateway.

However, if the rumours are found to be true, some of these ongoing projects may be delayed from reaching completion due to funding hitches. This reporter recently overheard a little bird chirping that there is intense pressure by some powerful interests and politicians upon the number one citizen in the state of aquatic splendour to hand over the huge funds already budgeted for the ongoing development projects in the state.

As we were repeatedly told back then in the secondary school days in Federal Government College, Warri, Delta State in the 80s, every action has an equal and opposite reaction, so it’s a no-brainer to conclude that any development funds handed over to powerful politicians ahead of 2019 general elections, will surely arrest the ongoing development projects around the metropolis.

Although the governor appears to be between the devil and the deep blue sea in this matter, the onus is on him to continue those projects, which have so far positively helped his almost-certain quest for a second term next term. Giving in to subtle blackmail at the expense of development may be counter-productive to a discerning electorate who will only vote in performing leaders...just saying