By Ike Uchechukwu, Calabar

Former Senator representing the Cross River South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Gershom Bassey, has advised Governor Bassey Otu to refrain from vilifying critics and instead listen to their views as a way of improving governance.

Senator Bassey gave the advice on Friday while speaking with journalists in Calabar. He commended the governor for the improvements recorded in areas such as security and infrastructural development since assuming office.

According to him, leaders often have a broader view of governance and may not always feel the direct impact of certain policies the way citizens do.

He said the areas where he had personal knowledge and could clearly assess progress were security and infrastructure, adding that noticeable improvements had been recorded in those sectors.

However, the former senator urged the governor to see criticism as a tool for growth rather than hostility. He noted that while some criticisms may be misplaced or unconstructive, many contain valuable insights that can help leaders perform better.

Senator Bassey cautioned against turning critics into enemies, stressing that leaders should especially pay attention to criticism expressed in a respectful and constructive manner.

He advised that listening to dissenting voices would not only strengthen leadership but also promote inclusiveness and better decision making.