Imoke's 20 Years Of Service Chronicled In A Book

“I could not write my story without mentioning him in chapters; my political life has been associated with him.” These are words from Cross River State’s former Governor, Donald Duke. Duke’s comments form part of a combination of various words from different people, who have worked closely in the public sector with Cross River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke in a book, titled “Born to Serve,” which is now out for public consumption.

Published by Africagenda Publications, “Born to Serve” is a 212- page book, written by Enuma Chigbo and Ejiro Barrett. The book, which has its foreword by President Goodluck Jonathan, takes the reader through Imoke’s various journeys in the public sector.

“It will definitely make a fine collector’s item,” said Chigbo. “It’s also interesting to learn about some critical elements of Nigeria, simply from what people have to say about the service of one man.”

“Liyel’s commitment to challenging the limitations placed in areas that a handful of us believed fell under the famous ‘no go areas’ was laudable. He managed to put out the issues very clearly, working across party lines. However, one singular and remarkable – what we called a ‘missed opportunity’ was the issue of June 12,” said Senator Aniete Okon, in his comments.

Mallam Nasir El Rufai who spoke on Imoke’s contributions in Nigeria’s power sector said, “Yes, some foundations were laid and things were looking optimistic. If the successive government had built on those foundations the country would be in a much better place.”

“I see Cross River State as a state with great potential,” said Bishop David Oyedepo, General Overseer, Living Faith Church. “I pray that whoever takes over from Liyel will have the same good heart and passion of taking the State to another level.”

It is envisaged that the book will reach out to all strata of society, and will be of immense benefit to the youth, whom Imoke is very passionate about. Part of this passion formed the launch of the Bridge Leadership Foundation, to mark his 50th birthday last year. “I believe that if every person or every youth follows Imoke’s ways, Cross River State would be a haven for all. Right from his youth, he has always been a hard worker; that’s why he was already a senator at the age of 30, so he has a lot to tell the youth,” said Former Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees, Chief Anthony Anenih.

Interviews with over 90 people across the country from different tribes and races formed the content of the book, and majority of them shared common ground on the subject matter.

“In the writing of this book, one theme ran through it all, time, astuteness, compassion and to do good for the majority of the people so that life to them becomes more meaningful. The National Award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) bestowed on Governor Imoke, is a vindication of that theme of service to nation and humanity,” said Blossom Ubani, who was part of the team that put the book together.