Dumo Lulu-Briggs, the Nigeria Democratic Congress governorship candidate for Rivers State, has made a remarkable pledge to donate his salary and allowances to widows across the state if he wins the 2027 general elections. This pledge was made during a media chat in Buguma, his hometown in the Asari-Toru Local Government Area. Lulu-Briggs unveiled his blueprint, titled ‘Reset Rivers State,’ which focuses on transparency, accountability, and selflessness in governance.
Lulu-Briggs' decision to forgo his salary was inspired by Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, whom he described as his principal. He emphasized that his financial independence would enable him to serve without relying on government remuneration. Lulu-Briggs noted that his businesses would continue to support him after leaving office, eliminating the need for pension or other forms of compensation.
The NDC candidate expressed concern about the trust deficit between Rivers residents and those governing them. He promised to rebuild this relationship if elected, stating that people need to have faith in their government again. Lulu-Briggs described the trust deficit as frightening and pledged to work towards restoring public confidence in government.
Lulu-Briggs' administration plans to pursue a comprehensive reset of Rivers State, focusing on the economy, politics, governance, and access to opportunities. He promised that citizens would no longer need political connections or know any ‘big man’ to access government opportunities. The NDC candidate emphasized that his administration would invest heavily in young people, who are the strength of society.
The proposed reset aims to ensure that Rivers State's natural wealth translates into improved living conditions for its people. Lulu-Briggs stated that the future of Rivers State depends more on developing its human resources than merely exploiting its natural resources. He emphasized the need for innovative approaches to create a better future for the state.
On governance, Lulu-Briggs pledged to reform the state civil service, which he described as the engine of government. He blamed the concentration of contracts and government activities at the Government House for weakening ministries and contributing to the decline of the civil service. The NDC candidate also promised substantial investment in healthcare, particularly the rehabilitation and activation of primary healthcare centers across the state.
Lulu-Briggs plans to recruit more doctors and provide them with incentives, including accommodation and inconvenience allowances, to encourage medical professionals to serve in rural communities. He aims to make it attractive for doctors to work in rural areas rather than staying in Port Harcourt. The NDC candidate's ultimate objective is to use public office to restore trust, expand opportunities, and improve living conditions for Rivers State's people.
Key points
- Lulu-Briggs pledges to donate his salary and allowances to widows across Rivers State if elected governor.
- The NDC candidate aims to reset Rivers State, focusing on transparency, accountability, and selflessness in governance.
- Lulu-Briggs plans to invest heavily in young people and develop Rivers State's human resources.
