Abia: Umunneochi LG commend Governor Orji’s administration.

Some notable traditional rulers of Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia state have commended the government of Chief Theodore Orji for his interest and contribution to the growth and development of the local government.

Aside the several road projects which he had executed in the local government, the administration of Governor Orji has given a large number of people from the area appointments, hence the need for the commendation, the royal fathers noted.

The nine traditional rulers, who spoke under the umbrella of Umunneochi Royal Fathers' Supreme Assembly, also commended the member representing the local government in the House of Assembly, Prince Ikedi Ezekwesiri for "quality representation" urging him to do more.

They however appealed for improved welfare of traditional rulers, stating that presently, traditional rulers receive poor attention.

According to them, besides being small, the stipend was not always regular, adding that traditional rulers are supposed to be paid welfare stipend by their various Local Government Councils.

The royal fathers who were at the House of Assembly to commend Ezekwesiri noted that what they called "paltry welfare package is what they receive" urging the state House of Assembly to ensure that the welfare of royal fathers in the state was improved on.

They on Prince Ikedi Ezekwesiri, representing the area in the House of Assembly, to see how he could compliment the little stipend they receive.

"We pray and demand that he takes the welfare of Umunneochi Traditional rulers seriously, to balance the effects of poor attention and paltry stipend paid to them at irregular times", the royal fathers said. They however commended him for his kind gestures to the less privileged in the area.

The visiting royal fathers thanked the law makers for his timely intervention when Umuaku/Mbala communities were hit by flood disaster, saying that the timely intervention of the law maker "ultimately saved lives and property in different communities affected by the flood.

They also lauded Ezekwesiri for "restoring hope to an ailing indigent old widow" by building a four room bungalow home for her at Leru Umuchieze, and noted that "the hitherto old haggard widow is today refreshed and happier".

Urging the law maker not to relent in his effort, the royal fathers also praised Governor Orji for "his unequalled regard, love and respect for Umunneochi people".

While responding, Ezekwesiri expressed his gratitude to the royal fathers for the visit and promised to do more by ensuring that the area is represented well.