Former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan has accused certain state governors of fostering youth criminality for political gain.
Speaking at the inauguration of the newly reconstructed Edo State Civil Service Secretariat, Jonathan commended Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration for its developmental vision and criticized other governors for exploiting youths.
Jonathan praised Governor Obaseki’s commitment to state development, highlighting the employment of first-class graduates as a positive step: “If you go to some states, governors are busy encouraging criminals because of politics. People that will rig elections for them, carry ballot boxes, knives, and cutlasses to pursue people. But you are encouraging the brains of Edo State.”
He condemned the political manipulation of youths, contrasting it with Obaseki’s focus on education and public service. “You are not supporting these brains because you want to win an election but because you want to build a state,” Jonathan said, emphasizing the need to develop human capital.
Jonathan also lauded Obaseki’s decision to raise the minimum wage to N70,000, reflecting confidence in the governor’s vision: “Initially, when I read in the papers that you proposed to pay N70,000 minimum wage, I was also worried. But that is the word of a visionary leader.”
Addressing students, Jonathan urged them to prioritize their studies over engaging in cult activities or alcohol abuse, stressing the importance of academic excellence.
Governor Obaseki, in his address, underscored the need for an efficient government bureaucracy to attract private sector investment and develop the state. He expressed pride in the secretariat’s reconstruction, viewing it as a realization of the late General Samuel Ogbemudia’s vision for Edo State’s development.
