Commentary: Writer Urges Loyalty, Gratitude, and Unity, Condemns Political Betrayal In Sagbama
A public affairs commentator, Kuroyifa Botu, has called on political stakeholders and residents of Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State to embrace loyalty, gratitude, and unity, warning that rising acts of political betrayal and ungratefulness threaten the state's progress.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Botu described ungratefulness as a destructive trait that discourages mentorship, weakens leadership, and undermines the goodwill that drives societal development.
According to him, individuals who forget those who supported their rise discourage future acts of generosity and create a culture where loyalty and service are no longer valued.
The commentator also condemned what he described as the growing culture of political betrayal, arguing that it is more damaging than open opposition.
"An opponent fights you from the front; a betrayer stabs you from behind," he said, lamenting what he termed the "eat and run" style of politics, where political allegiance is abandoned in pursuit of personal gain.
Botu expressed concern over what he described as persistent attacks on former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Distinguished Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, CON, whom he referred to as the National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
He maintained that Dickson had made significant contributions to the development of Bayelsa State, particularly Sagbama LGA and the wider Ijaw nation, citing his record in infrastructure development, education, human capital development, and advocacy for Ijaw interests at the national level.
The writer argued that responding to such contributions with hostility, envy, or political attacks would amount to undermining the collective interests of the people.
He further warned that those who betray their political allies for short-term benefits often lose the trust of both former associates and new allies, stressing that loyalty remains an essential virtue in politics.
Calling for a return to politics built on principle rather than personal gain, Botu urged political actors to reject what he described as the "eat and run" mentality and instead promote mutual respect and enduring partnerships.
He concluded by appealing to the people of Sagbama and Bayelsa State to rise above political divisions and support leaders they believe have contributed to the state's development.
According to him, history and posterity will judge whether society chose betrayal or brotherhood, urging citizens to embrace gratitude, unity, and wisdom in the interest of lasting peace and progress.
