In an interview conducted by Ijeoma Osamor of AIT on the program Democracy Today, Dr. Dennis Osahon Aikoriogie, the NRM gubernatorial candidate in Edo state, highlighted the importance of establishing suggestion boxes in government offices, Dedicated toll free phone lines and Town hall meetings and constant media parleys. This initiative aims to provide an avenue for citizens to voice their concerns and ideas, allowing the government to understand the needs and desires of the people.
Dr. Dennis Osahon Aikoriogie’s suggestions of having unhindered access to the Governor are Government house suggestion boxes, dedicated toll-free phone lines, constant town hall meetings and media parleys to gauge citizens pulses and determine first hand areas of needs and government involvement and intervention.
Dr. Aikoriogie, a familiar face in Edo state, having been born and raised there as well as residing in various other cities across Nigeria, including Kano, Lagos, Abuja, Maiduguri, Port Harcourt, Owerri and Jos, believes that citizen engagement and citizen-driven governance are crucial in building a thriving democratic society. Through his campaigns to be governor, he personally interacted with the people of Edo state, gathering valuable insights on their aspirations and requirements.
The suggestion boxes, phone lines, Town Hall meetings and media parleys would facilitate an accessible and convenient means for citizens to reach out to the government. By allowing people to express their thoughts and suggestions, these means would help bridge the gap between the government and the governed and ensure that policies and decisions are made in the best interest of the citizens.
Furthermore, the introduction of suggestion boxes, Dedicated toll-free phone lines in government offices, town hall meetings and media parleys would foster transparency and accountability within the government. These means of reaching out to the government would serve as a tangible representation of the government’s willingness to listen and consider the input of the people. It would also enable citizens to actively participate in the decision-making process, promoting a sense of inclusion and ownership.
Dr. Aikoriogie’s proposal aligns with the global trend of promoting citizen engagement in governance. Many countries have successfully implemented similar initiatives, recognizing the importance of citizen participation in shaping policies and ensuring effective governance.
The introduction of suggestion boxes in government offices, Open phone lines , Town meetings and media parleys are steps towards strengthening democracy and promoting good governance in Edo state. By providing an avenue for citizens to reach out to the government, this initiative has the potential to revolutionize the way decisions are made, ensuring they are reflective of the needs and aspirations of the people.
As the gubernatorial elections approach in Edo state, it is essential for all candidates to prioritize citizen engagement and to continuously seek ways to involve the public in the decision-making process. Dr. Aikoriogie’s proposal for the establishment of suggestion boxes in government offices, Open phone lines, media parleys and constant Town Hall meetings is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
Dr. Aikoriogie’s government will embrace this initiative and actively engage with the people. Nonetheless, the introduction of suggestion boxes, dedicated toll-free phone lines in government offices, town hall meetings and media parleys would undoubtedly pave the way for a more inclusive and participatory democratic system, where the voice of every citizen is heard and valued.
