Engaging with people should be leaders’ major concern — Osinbajo

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo says elected leaders should regularly aspire to meet with the electorate.

His spokesman, Laolu Akande, quoted him as saying this Thursday in Abuja while receiving the outgoing UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon.

• Amnesty Int’l lauds prisoners’ release from military detention
• Atiku asks FG to emulate PDP governors’ projects to tackle insecurity

Osinbajo said constant engagement with the electorate on justice, peace, security and social contract could not be allowed to fall through the cracks as they are critical issues.

“You cannot avoid engaging with the people; there’s need to engage in a way that you’re trusted. People should see that you’re committed enough about their concerns.

“People must feel that government is committed to their welfare, security and especially on issues of healthcare and education of their children. So, a social compact is crucial.

“As a matter of fact, it is both a current concern and aspiration for those of us who have been fortunate to be elected into positions in government and in the politics of our country,’’ he said.

Earlier, Kallon had told Osinbajo the importance of a social contract between the people and their governments.

He recounted his experiences in his more than five years stay in Nigeria and observed that maintaining peace and security was crucial. (NAN)