GRPolitics
Enugu 2023: Ekweremadu rings the bell!!!
ARTICLE By Ephraim Ugwu
THE three-time Deputy President of Senate and former Speaker African Parliament, Professor Dr. Ike Ekweremadu, last Tuesday, assembled the creme de la creme of Enugu politics from all the 17 Local Governments of Enugu State.
At a very posh hotel in Enugu, at what he dubbed a ‘ Breakfast Meeting ‘, the boisterous Senator, decked in Igbo traditional Isiagu attire and cap to match, made it very businesslike. It was interactive after buffet meals, and had to make his historical delivery laced with such effervescence, keeping his audience spell bound with rapt attention.
The opening prayers set the stage of the high octane gathering and what to expect. The pastor was audacious and said inter alia, that the Heavens were happy with the host. He committed him to the protection of God and urged the revered Senator to put forward his hands and he did what was common in Pentecostalism, the ‘impartation ‘on his two palms. He wound up the prayers by ordering the guests to shout a thunderous Alleluah 13 times for the Biblical Wall of Jericho to collapse, thus committing him to God for the journey ahead, in becoming the next Governor of Enugu State.
The Senator speaking extemporaneously reeled out his plans for Enugu to make it an Eldorado of a place that would become the pride of all and a cynosure of all eyes not only from the African continent but the entire world. He dwelt on the economic perspective, social, cultural and making the youths gainfully employed by industrialisation policy, amongst others.
“I was four years when the war broke out and after my secondary school, taught briefly at the popular St Vincent’s Secondary School, where the burning interest of becoming a lawyer caught up with most teachers in the college. My interest had been in the sciences but my colleagues whipped up the passion for law.
“Six of us teachers sat for the exam, but I was the only one chosen then. On completion of my law degree, and going to Law School in Lagos, had planned to open my law firm in Jos but the uprising then, made me to return to Enugu along Ogui road and had my chambers there. The present Governor, His Excellency Dr Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, had his Insurance firm close to my office. We have been friends for over 30 years.
Daily, we ended up at a local restaurant where we dined together and exchanged pleasantries and banters. Our two wives collaborate and that is why I laugh at people who think we are at daggers drawn. As this meeting wind up, I am moving straight to Orba in Nsukka Governor’s country home to wish him compliments of the Yuletide season.
“In my political journey, I had twice been recommended for Ministerial appointments by the then President Olusegun Obasanjo, but the Governor then Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani did not want to release me because he felt I had greater assignments to do for our people back home. I personally took the letter and ferried the man who later became Minister in Obasanjo’s government from Enugu State, Chief Dubem Onyia to Abuja. With all modesty and humility, I am not looking for work, I am not desperate, but seeking a greater opportunity to work with all Enugu people and stakeholders on our program of action, that would turn Enugu State into the economic and tourist hub of not only Nigeria but Africa.
“We need to position our state so much so that any visitor coming to Nigeria for the first time cannot beat his or her chest as having seen the country in its entirety, without coming over to Enugu State. We would build on the foundation laid by the present Governor and employing the methodology of Creative Thinking and Opportunities to achieve our goals.
They are achievable and attainable. If you are a creative government there are several things you can circumvent and pull surprises. A couple of days back some progressive minded young men came to me with proposals of automobile manufacturing. My take is no one on earth manufactures vehicles but what prevails is assembling.
“What is needed is to upgrade and assemble. The China example readily comes to mind. Every Chinese family is encouraged to produce one or more parts in a larger Assembly Vehicle family. This way everyone is busy and contributes to the economy and equally earns a living. Owing to my vast experience and travels, I have the Singaporean model to fashion out. There is the latest Carbon Credit that rules the world and even our God given crop of Ogbolor crops are in high demand in far away Norway. Pity, no statistics of road networks that are either bad or done in Nigeria ditto electricity power supply in the country. Insecurity and kidnapping are bye products of terrible state of bad roads, which makes innocent Nigerians fall prey to bandits and kidnappers.
“There is Autoband Roads in Germany, with cars and vehicles doing a steady 120-160 mph , making it impossible for any attack by hoodlums because the road is first class. This is my thought and plan for Enugu State. I am amazed that not up to five states in the country have factored new industries to employ the tens and thousands of our young ones out of school. Once we provide jobs, the rate of insecurity would drop drastically. Dubai was a backward nation 25 years ago, had to loan its first aircraft from Pakistan, today the story is different the profit making Emirates, tell the success story. We have a gold mine on our hands in Enugu via tourism. Potentiality of tourism is better imagined. Enugu is the back bone of cinematography, pioneering the Nolywood film making industry. A Film Village would be a foreign exchange earner, just as Europeans rake lots of hard currencies with their film industry.
“Enugu has always been peaceful and a place to treasure, but unfortunately with the hype on politicking, it is sadly degenerating to an unfortunate hooliganism. If the epitaph on the former Governor Sullivan Chime is to be written, there will be a sizeable chapter devoted to his stamping out completely thuggery and banditry in Enugu State. Sadly it has resurrected and it is returning with such venom. All we need do is to raise the quality of our arguments and not resort to vile speeches, and show of physical assault in the quest of political power. Our forefathers that created Enugu State Chief C C Onoh, Barrister Enechi Onyia, Chief Charles Abangwu, to name but a few, conceptualised a state where we all would be happy , there would be no discrimination since we have a common language, culture and inter related.
“My dream is to foist on Enugu people, the Singaporean model of both economy and social relationships. In Singapore there are Indians, Chinese and Malaysians, that country had challenges but quickly conquered and solved that blemish. By the Grace of God, we shall together build a City State not a fractured state. Not one where brothers would be threatening their brothers and sisters that they would dangle cutlasses. We have said NO to banditry and thuggery and will never return to such dangerous oddities again in Enugu State by the grace of God. I will engage more of our people; engage the youths and women and intensify collaborative efforts at dialogue and emphasising on competence, capacity to deliver, and disabuse disunity,” Ekweremadu said.
Speaker after speaker paid glowing tributes to his humility, heart of meek of human kindness by floating an Ikeoha Educational Foundation which has continued to help and assist students by providing them scholarships to study but at home and overseas. One particular guest, who had arrived from the United States of America, had shared the strong sentiments expressed by some Igbo in the Diaspora. They hold strongly the views that if only Enugu State will replicate what happened in Anambra State last November and getting it right to elect a very competent and vast experienced technocrat politician, in their very words ‘Ala Igbo’, would have hit it 100 percent set for development.
Some others urged the Senator to take special interest in insecurity and kidnapping in particular areas of the state, which he promised to take up, including undue and incessant harassment of Oganiru Social group and those associated with him. The end of year get together of what can pass for Senator Ike Ekweremadu indicating that he would throw his hat into the ring as soon as the curtain is drawn, had in attendance top political pundits from the state, including the Minority Chief Whip, erudite Toby Okechukwu, members of the National Assembly, State House of Assembly, Chairmen of Councils, the academia, women and youth groups.
It painted a picture of the Shakespearean verses. Remember Caesar, remember Mark Anthony, the proletariat converging to listen to him speak, his cathecism of knowledge and speech. It was Shakespear’s Hamlet that epitomised the true situation ‘Take me, Take a King, Take a King, take a Soldier. Senator Ekweremadu conversely had told his beloved Enugu people, to “take your son, take competence, experience and proficiency; take me, to the famed Lion Building at Independence Layout seat of government, come 2023.” Let philosophers therefore be kings like the Roman Jews, one would unambiguously say.
Dr Ugwu is a public analyst and author
GRPolitics
2027: Nsukka Leaders Endorse Gov Mbah Over Massive Projects in the Zone
…say senatorial district highest beneficiary of Mbah’s projects, reports Ikenna Oluka
Leaders of Enugu North Senatorial District, otherwise known as Nsukka Zone, have endorsed the Enugu State governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, to continue in office beyond 2027, saying the governor has transformed the zone in less than two years of his administration.
The Nsukka leaders who convened at the Adada House, Nsukka, on Thursday, under the aegis of Enugu State Coalition for Progress, Enugu North Senatorial Zone Branch, comprised a cross section of socio-cultural groups, the academia, representatives of Traditional Rulers, captains of industry, businessmen and women, politicians, market men and women, farmers association, labour leaders, among other leaders drawn from the 6 council areas of the zone, expressed their unwavering support for the Mbah administration.
In an interactive session by a panel of discussants from the groups which was followed by a communique issued at the end of the discussion and signed by no fewer than 700 signatories including the former deputy governor, Chief Okechukwu Itanyi, Senator Chuka Utazi of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the deputy speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ezeani Ezenta, Dr. Dan Shere, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, Gen. Godwin Ugwuoke (rtd), Dr. Mike Ajogwu SAN, Chief Maxwell Ukuta, Prof Osita Ogbu, and Igwe Dr H.N Ukuta, they cited the litany of monumental infrastructural developments of the governor across the state, particularly in Nsukka Zone, as the reasons behind their endorsement.
In a resolution and vote of gratitude, the coalition commended the governor’s outstanding leadership and stellar performance since assuming office in May 2023, saying the only candidate the zone would support in 2027 is Governor Mbah.
They insisted that supporting Mbah to do 8 years in office was in the best interest of Nsukka people as his re-election would enable him finish the landmark projects initiated by his administration in the zone which were already opening Nsukka for economic development.
The coalition further praised the governor for providing peace and security in Enugu State, making it an attractive destination for investment, business, and tourism in Nigeria.
“In particular, we note with satisfaction, that the setting up of the Enugu State Command and Control Center by His Excellency at the Government House for tracking criminal activities across the state has become a model for other states of the federation. We applaud His Excellency’s holistic development agenda for Enugu State anchored on his disruptive innovation philosophy as a catalyst for positive change,” the communique read in part.
While underscoring that the senatorial district has 102 electoral wards constituting 39.2 percent of the 260 electoral wards in the state, the elated Nsukka leaders said with 102 Smart Green Schools and 102 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres across the six councils, the zone has become the highest beneficiary of Mbah’s stellar performance.
On the ongoing dualization of Enugu-Ugwogo Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road, the coalition described it as a critical infrastructure aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting economic activities, adding that the reconstruction of the 44.8 km Ama Ngwo-Eke-Oghe-Iwollo-Umulokpa road and the new 40 km Owo-Ama Nkanu-Ubahu-Mbu-Neke dual carriageway would open up a new traffic and economic corridor to the senatorial zone.
It also noted that Mbah’s administration has transformed Enugu State from a civil service state to a fast-emerging industrial hub, with an unimaginable annual internally generated revenue of over N600 billion by the end of 2025. “The governor’s commitment to progress is evident in the rapid pace of development and transformation across various sectors, including roads, bridges, healthcare, security, tourism, entertainment, industries, and educational institutions.”
Throwing their weight behind the governor, Chief Ukuta said the people of the zone would not only queue behind him in the next polls, they also owed the governor apology for the herd mentality that almost led to the voting of wrong candidates.
Expressing confidence in the governor’s leadership ability, Senator Utazi said as an APC card-carrying member, he was at the meeting to particularly appreciate the good work of the governor, stressing that he deserved the unwavering support of the entire zone.
“I am a card-carrying member of APC starting from my ward in Nkpologu all the way to Abuja. I want to say that this gathering is not for PDP. It’s a gathering for every well-meaning Nsukka indigene who is appreciative of the good job the governor of Enugu State is doing in Enugu State and especially in Enugu North senatorial district. In fact, when I came back to Enugu, starting from the airport, I saw nylon roads, the type only seen in Abuja. When I visited the governor recently to discuss the police station I built there as a senator, the governor was immediately working to operationalize it, and is additionally working on the road from 9th Mile to Umulokpa. He also told me severally the things he was doing in Nsukka zone and all of them are what people can see on ground. Let’s support him to continue with his job. I want to say frankly that Nsukka people are happy with him,” the senator added.
Adding his voice, Dr. Ajogwu said the coalition had already spoken the minds of Nsukka people which was to support the governor for another term.
On his part, Hon. Ezeani, who led lawmakers from the zone, said the governor would continue to enjoy cordial relationship with the House of Assembly to ensure the continuation of the good governance in the state.
He described the Mbah administration as business unusual where new projects were springing up daily with many already completed across the state, adding that they had already declared unalloyed support and endorsement for his candidacy beyond 2027.
Lending his voice, Dr Shere lauded the governor for the transport infrastructure project which has the Nsukka Central Terminal Station, the Holy Ghost utra-modern terminal stations, Abakpa and Gariki stations in addition with the recently delivered CNG buses ordered by state government.
“You don’t need to be told that in Nsukka, we are all adopting governor Peter Mbah to complete the job he has started here. Nsukka is now looking beautiful because of what he’s contributing to our economy, infrastructure, education and transport sectors. Look at the Enugu Air, it’s a game changing moment for the state. The investment prospects will impact all the nooks and crannies of the state. Again, the International Conference Centre, the ongoing 5 star hotel, the Hotel Presidential and the 300-bed international hospital in the state will make Enugu the hub of medical tourism where robotic surgery will be conducted and thousands of jobs created,” he said.
Moving a motion for endorsement of the governor for 2027, Chief Itanyi insisted that the ongoing 43.7 km dualisation of the Penoks-Ugwogo Nike-Opi-Nsukka road was the single most costly project in the state. The motion was unanimously affirmed by voice votes by the members coalition who filled the hall.
GRPolitics
Breaking: ‘Welcome home,’ Gov Mbah Receives Edeoga Back to PDP
…‘You’re Enugu people’s choice,’ Edeoga tells governor
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, on Wednesday, welcomed the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the 2023 governorship election, Hon. Chijioke Edeoga, back into the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, fold, commending the ex-opposition flagbearer for demonstrating that politics is not a do-or-die affair.
Mbah said that Edeoga’s return to the PDP was in line with the party’s principle of reconciliation and making the people, not personal ambition, the focus of governance, urging him and his supporters to feel very much at home.
This was even as the former gubernatorial candidate endorsed Mbah as the popular choice of the people of Enugu State, stressing that he had fully aligned with that choice.
Receiving Edoega in his office, in the company of party leaders led by the state party chairman, Dr. Martin Chukwunweike, Mbah said, “Welcome back home. The symbolism of your action is a mark of the enduring bond that runs in our party. I am indeed very delighted to have you back to rejoin your family.
“What we are witnessing today is a result of fence-mending consistent with the philosophy of our party – the imperatives of reconciliation.
“It is also a demonstration on your part that politics is not a do-or-die affair; that what we are currently doing in Enugu State appeals to you and you believe that it is working for the interest of the people and you have taken that decision to say, ‘Look, let us join hands together and serve our people.’
“I commend you greatly for making such a courageous bold step. The lesson for us is quite profound, as it shows that the common denominator even when we express our aspirations on different political platforms, is all about the people and making them the centerpiece of our ambitions.
“So, we will embrace you with our arms wide open. You are going to be treated as a member of PDP, which we know you are indeed. We look forward to working with you in the service of our people.”
Edeoga, on his part, commended Governor Mbah for making his return possible, describing it as a paradigm shift from politics of animosity and winner takes all to politics of empathy and people-centred development.
“I thank Your Excellency for overseeing the process that has culminated in my return to the PDP and my visit to your office. It is easy to downplay what has happened. But something like this has not happened in the annals of politics in Enugu State. I commend your wisdom, I commend your empathy, I commend your mental sagacity.
“What has happened here today will effect a paradigm shift in the way politics is played in Enugu State. It will no longer be winner takes all or politics being seen as a hostile or brutal activity. It has restored politics as just a contest of ideas and visions. These contesting visions were thrown open to the public and the people of Enugu State have made their choice, which I completely align myself with.
“Politics should be played without bitterness; it should be played without animosity and as much humanely as possible. Once the victor has emerged, the next thing is governance. The governance is ongoing and it is going very well. When it is time for politics, people are free to pursue their dreams. For now, it is time for governance.
“Anyone, who feels annoyed or deeply angered that Edeoga has taken this step of faith, I believe with time, they will align with the superior wisdom of those who are their leaders. Leadership comes with responsibilities and one of these responsibilities is to take a step of faith.
“Again, thank you for making my return to the PDP possible. I recommit myself to the ideals of PDP. As much as possible, I will work to ensure that PDP becomes victorious going forward,” he said.
GRPolitics
Minister Commends Guards Brigade for Exceptional Service in Securing the Seat of Government
The Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has expressed profound appreciation for the unwavering commitment and exemplary efforts of the Commander, officers, and personnel of the Guards Brigade in safeguarding the Federal Capital Territory and its environs.
In his remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the 2024 West African Social Activity (WASA 2024) held in Abuja, the Minister stated, “Your loyalty, sacrifice, and dedication in executing your Presidential security duties, coordinating ceremonial parades, and managing operational challenges are commendable. Your proactive approach in addressing security threats has ensured the safety of the Presidency as well as that of citizens, visitors, and diplomats alike. I urge you to continue embodying compassion and empathy in your operations, striving for excellence in all your responsibilities.”
The Minister highlighted that the WASA event serves as a vibrant testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria, as showcased by the personnel and families of the Guards Brigade. “The traditional dances and local delicacies on display tonight not only enhance our appreciation of our diverse cultures but also play a crucial role in preserving our cultural heritage and distinct identity,” he added.
In conclusion, the Minister called upon the Guards Brigade to uphold the trust placed in them by consistently meeting the challenges of their duties and ensuring that the flag of the Nigerian Armed Forces continues to fly high.
Earlier, Major General Adebisi Onosayan, Commander of the Guards Brigade, delivered a welcome address expressing gratitude to the President for his unwavering support of the Brigade’s operations, training, and welfare. “Thank you, Your Excellency. I also wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff for their relentless guidance and support. We pledge our unwavering loyalty and readiness to contribute effectively to the security of lives and property in the Federal Capital Territory and its surroundings,” he emphasized.
General Onosayan further noted that the 2024 WASA highlights the social diversity, cultural identity, values, beliefs, and rich heritage of the Nigerian people, resonating with the ethos of the Nigerian Army. “This event provides an opportunity to showcase various cultural dances, traditional cuisines, languages, attire, and ethnic groups of our great nation in a relaxed atmosphere,” he stated, adding that today’s event marks the Brigade’s Grand Finale.
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