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AN ADVOCATE OF EQUITY AND REFORM
Victor Umeh embodies the virtues of true statecraft, always prioritising the greatest good for the greatest number, reckons
PAT ONUKWULI
In the labyrinth of Nigerian politics, where allegiances shift and principles often yield to convenience, one figure stands firm as an advocate for fairness, justice, and national progress. Senator Victor Umeh has consistently committed to serving his constituency and the nation.
Like the ancient philosopher who seeks truth despite adversity, Umeh positions himself as a champion of equity and reform, prepared to challenge the status quo and uphold the values that truly matter to the people.
When elected lawmakers take office, they promise to serve the people honestly and diligently, much like a philosopher’s quest for truth and enlightenment. Senator Victor Umeh, a leading voice from the South-east and Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Identity and National Population, exemplifies this commitment.
Known for speaking boldly and clearly, Umeh consistently addresses national issues without fear of political consequences. He sees the Senate not as a venue for political games or fleeting ambitions, but as a forum for shaping Nigeria’s future. He likens the role of a lawmaker to that of a sculptor, who carves a path of progress through reasoned, deliberate actions rather than seeking momentary applause or partisan favours.
Umeh’s work in the Senate reflects the timeless wisdom of Greek philosophy, which regards good governance as a moral obligation. The ancient Greek concept of dike, or justice, resonates deeply with his belief that lawmaking involves not serving personal interests but fulfilling the greater good of society. It is not the seat of the Senate that should bring glory, but the laws it enacts.
He often remarks that once a lawmaker assumes office, it is time to focus on the work of governance rather than personal politics, underscoring his belief that the Senate should not serve as a platform for personal gain or theatrics.
His commitment to equity aligns with his vocal support for the Eastern Rail Line, a project vital to the economic integration of the South-east with the rest of the country, highlights his broader vision for national progress. He argues that neglecting this crucial infrastructure is a regional and national crisis.
Like the architects of ancient cities who built infrastructure that served the common good, Umeh perceives the development of railways and trade routes as the backbone of a prosperous nation. His call for the revival of the Eastern Rail Line is not merely a plea for regional development; it is a demand for a nation where all citizens, regardless of their location, have access to opportunities for growth and prosperity.
With the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) becoming a reality, Umeh acknowledged its importance, especially considering the region’s historical marginalisation since the Civil War. However, he quickly pointed out that the speedy demands from other zones for similar development commissions diluted the true purpose of the SEDC.
While not opposing these demands, he emphasised that the South-East deserved special attention due to its long-standing neglect. His stance reflects the wisdom of a just leader who, with a stellar manner, strives to correct past wrongs and ensure that every region is prosperous and treated with respect.
He expressed concern regarding the sexual harassment allegations against the Senate President by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, emphasising the necessity for due process in such sensitive matters. While abstaining from taking sides based on gender or personal affiliations, he maintained that the Senate should not be a place for paramour-related accusations.
Drawing on the Greek concept of logos, he contended that unsubstantiated accusations without compelling evidence could damage the entire Senate. As the foremost law-making body, he believes the Senate must uphold its integrity by carefully considering any petition arising from this claim within its established rules.
For Umeh, the proper role of a legislator is not on constituency projects like building two-bedroom bungalows or providing temporary relief, but to create laws that ensure long-term stability and prosperity. He has been outspoken about the misguided focus on constituency projects, which he thinks distract from the actual work of lawmaking.
According to him, the core function of the National Assembly is to craft laws that serve the public good and hold the executive accountable. He insists that a lawmaker must create a robust legal framework that upholds justice and ensures good governance.
In his broader vision for Nigeria, Umeh has long advocated for restructuring the country’s political and economic systems, envisioning a fairer, more inclusive nation capable of genuinely meeting the needs of its people.
This belief is not merely theoretical but a call for immediate action. He has repeatedly argued that Nigeria’s current political structure fails citizens, and that restructuring is crucial for its prosperity. Umeh also criticises the proposal to create 31 new states, describing it as a mockery of the process, which would further entrench the evolution of unitary federalism.
His thoughtful optimism that President Bola Tinubu is moving in the right direction indicates that Nigeria needs reforms. He perceives in Tinubu a readiness to address these reforms directly. However, his support is not naive loyalty; instead, it acknowledges the importance of the president’s vision to transform Nigeria into a fairer and more prosperous nation.
He therefore urged Nigerians to grant Tinubu a bit of time to implement his reforms, emphasising that change on a national scale requires patience and careful execution.
His commitment to the truth and justice extends even to his demand for accountability from the past. His call for General Yakubu Gowon to apologise to the Igbo people and provide a complete account of his role in the Nigerian Civil War is a powerful reconciliation statement. He believes that for Nigeria to move forward, it must first confront its past, just as individuals must reconcile with their history to move beyond it.
Umeh actively takes responsibility for national security matters. He expressed concern over rising insecurity and the missing firearms from police custody, reflecting his strong commitment to ensuring the safety of every Nigerian. He holds the police and other security agencies accountable for protecting the lives and property of citizens. Since security forms the foundation of any society, Umeh emphasises transparency and accountability, reminding everyone, including the government, that no one should act with impunity.
Umeh, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, recently criticised the government for failing to deliver affordable housing despite good intentions. He highlighted the underfunding of key institutions like the Federal Housing Authority, with a capital base of just N2.5 billion, and the mismanagement of past housing projects. He called for better coordination and use of available funds to tackle the country’s housing deficit.
Senator Victor Umeh embodies the virtues of true statecraft, always prioritising the greater good in pursuing a fairer, more just Nigeria. In a political arena often clouded by corruption and partisanship, he stands out as an authentic advocate of equity and reform. His commitment to justice, fairness, and integrity, combined with his pragmatic approach to lawmaking, ensures his legacy will endure, leaving a lasting impact like the revered leaders of ancient civilisations.
Onukwuli PhD, writes from Bolton, UK
