Opinion: DVD, a weapon of mass destruction against youth unemployment in Edo

By Liberty ‘Ruyi

Assuming, but not conceding the fact that political office holders including members of the Nigeria National Assembly, beyond appropriation for work to be done, are entitled to huge largesse that accrues as salaries and allowances. Far and above the question of official performances, will it be out of place to do a public probe of where these political office holders, past and present invest their resources; home or abroad?

As personal as the above question may sound, we must all understand that the battle against unemployment in a capitalist state like Nigeria isn’t of government but citizens with humongous resources. The more private resources are invested in the state, the more opportunities are created for direct and indirect jobs. This goes a long way in strengthening the local economy and raising the per capita income of the citizens in the journey out of poverty.

May God bless Chief Lucky Igbinedion if the rumor of his stakes in Kada Plaza & Cinema, the several China-affiliated metals, and doors companies in Benin City is true. Check Uzamere and his Speed FM, Ogiadome and his KU FM, and a host of other responsible past and present political leaders. If each establishes a company that takes 100 youths off the streets, in 50 years, companies will be searching for where to get employees.

Unfortunately, we gave some politicians opportunities to represent us, not only did they embezzle the entitlement of the people, but in a blatant show of wickedness and disdain for the same people who gave them the mandate, they take all the monies abroad to enhance other people’s economy leaving our people jobless and helpless. Yet, with a show of disrespect for, and foolery of the people, they come back to seek higher offices, and some of the same youths he has stolen from their destiny will be shouting “he’s a leader” to the high heavens. What a shame.

With over 1,200 direct staff in DVD Haulage, Oil & Gas, the young Hon. Valentine Asuen is undoubtedly one of the emerging weapons against unemployment in Benin Kingdom, and to have him represent Edo South at the Senate is a task we must all put our hands together to achieve for the benefit of our people, particularly the youths irrespective of party affiliation. We are not only hoping he will perform, but we are also sure that our show of love and support through the ballot will energize him to help us do in the public sector, what he has done in the private sector.