₦airaland Forum

After the colourful events that marked the celebration of the 2018 Sickle Cell Day held in Aba on Tuesday 19 June 2018, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu headed to the economic capital of Nigeria, Lagos, to honour an invitation as the Chief Guest of Honour to the Inaugural Annual Lecture of the Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria held at the Agip Hall of the MUSON Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos today.

The event afforded the Founder/President of Vicar Hope an opportunity to share her experience in the fight against sickle cell disease to the amazement and inspiration of the audience, which included academics from various health and research institutions as well as global pharmaceutical companies.

Amongst the guests were Professor Martin Steinberg, Professor of Medicine, Pediatrics, Pathology, and Laboratory Medicine of the Boston University School of Medicine and Centre of Excellence in Sickle Cell Disease Boston Medical Centre; Lagos Commissioner for health Jide Idris, and Professor Olu Akinyanju Founder of SCFN.

Mrs. Ikpeazu explained her Foundation’s two-pronged approach that is yielding results in the sickle cell world: i.e. awareness and treatment/palliatives.

She pointed out to the audience that sickle cell will continue to be a challenge to the health systems if adequate awareness is not carried out so that people can make critical decisions about their future partners and about procreation.

She told the gathering that she had secured the partnership of major stakeholders in Abia State to the fight against sickle cell, emphasizing that it was such support and collaboration that led to the passage of the Abia State Blood Group and genotype Identification Law 2018 by the State House of Assembly.

Indeed, Mrs. Ikpeazu is passionate to ensuring that the health challenges caused by Sickle Cell anemia is fought to standstill…

#AbiaOnline

Political stakeholders of Ohafia Local Government Area in Abia State have re-affirmed their support for the deputy Governor of the state, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu and expressed confidence in his performance and leadership of the area.

The leaders drawn from the three major communities in the LGA; Abiriba, Nkporo and Ohafia, made this known after an enlarged stakeholders meeting held under the umbrella of Ohafia Local Government Area Progressive Assembly (OLGAPA) at the residence of Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Chief Ukpai Agwu.

According to the communique read by Barr Ukpai Ukairo at the end of the meeting, the stakeholders stated that the Deputy Governor remains the political leader of the area and commended the partnership between him and Governor Okezie Ikpeazu which they described as “a partnership that is result oriented in delivering democracy dividends to Ohafia local government area, in particular, and Abia State as whole”.

The stakeholders unequivocally endorsed Governor Ikpeazu and his deputy for second term in office, under the banner of the People Democratic Party (PDP), and promised to support other candidates of the party that emerge after the party’s primaries to ensure that PDP wins all elective offices during the 2019 general election.

Stakeholders who attended the meeting include the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Ukpai Agwu, Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Honorable Mandela Obasi, Hon Ifeanyi Uchendu, Barr Ukpai Ukairo, Chief U U Egwu, Director of Women Mobilization in the state, Barr Nnenna Obewu, Chief K K Owen, PDP Chairman in the LGA, Chief John Okocha, Chief George Nnanna Kalu, Special Advisers and other aides of the Governor from the area, councilors and Grassroot political leaders of the local government area.

The member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Chief Uko Nkole also attended the meeting.

#AbiaOnline

It was excitement galore to the students of Girls Commercial School 2, Aba, as the Vicar Hope Foundation, a pet project of the Wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu in collaboration with the NDLEA took sickle cell anaemia and drug abuse campaigns to them.

Speaking at the programme titled "Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu: Catching Them Young Sickle Cell Awareness Campaign", the Coordinator, Vicar Hope Foundation Sickle Cell Anaemia Awareness Campaign in Schools, Churches and places adolescents could be found, Mr. Obinna Onyekwere informed that the essence of the campaign is to enlighten the girls on the effects of Sickle Cell Anemia decease and how to avoid it. He said they always expose teenagers to how to prevent sickle cell anaemia, how to manage it and what is available in case someone is down with it. He further disclosed that they also taught the students issues of drug abuse and HIV/AIDS aimed at catching them young for better future. .

Also speaking, the Abia State Commander, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Akinbade Bamidele said his agency is happy to collaborate with the Wife of the Governor to keep the students abreast of the dangers inherent in drug abuse and other related matters. He thanked Mrs. Ikpeazu for recognising the agency as a relevant stakeholder in the efforts to secure the future of the students. The Commander said the lectures would keep students abreast of drug trafficking before they enroll into tertiary institutions.

In her speech, the Principal of the school, Mrs. Nelly Ahunnaya, expressed joy that the wife of the Governor took the campaign to the school. According to her, the school has never had such full-packaged awareness since the its inception. She said the students are happy with the free lectures.

Some students, including Miss Sorochi Ihedioha and Goodness Okeke said the students are most grateful to the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Ikpeazu for exposing them to the issues of sickle cell anaemia. They affirmed that they learnt a lot about sickle cell anaemia, drug abuse and HIV/AIDS and promised to enlighten others about the consequences of drug abuse and sickle cell anaemia among other things taught them.

UNU,
12/06/2018.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rf5JlpMZ8kI

PRESS RELEASE:

The Vicar Hope Foundation with support from the State Ministry of Health and relevant agencies will mark this year’s World Sickle Cell Day on June 19 2018.

A release signed by Eze Ajuzie Chief Press Secretary to the Wife of the Governor says the event with a theme “Working Together to End the Cycle”, would focus on recent successes in the multi-faceted effort to curb the sickle cell disease, especially the recent passage of the Law for the Identification of Blood Group and Genotype by the State House of Assembly.
According to the release, the Speaker, Abia State House of Assembly, the Right Honourable Chikwendu Kalu, will be the Special Guest of Honour, while a consultant haematologist, Dr. Ogbonnaya Nwabuko, will deliver the Keynote Address titled: “Beyond the Legislation for Sickle Cell Prevention – Getting the right outcomes”.

Venue is Aba General Hospital, Aba while time is 10.00 a.m.

Throwing more light, the release named Professor Chuks Kamalu Chief Medical Director Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba as chairman of the event, while the Founder/President of Vicar Hope Foundation and Wife of the Governor Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu is the Chief Host.

The release further explains that the day’s events will feature a road show on major streets of the city of Aba, free genotype tests and presentations of Award to the Speaker and Abia State House of Assembly for their commitment to the fight against sickle cell disorder.

Members of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) have applauded the infrastructure development efforts of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and described him as “a true Nehemiah of our time”.

This was made known during the 2018 Fathers’ Day Celebration of the Men’s Christian Association (MCA) of the Ogbor Hill Parish of the Church by the Minister in Charge, Rev. Akim Erim Mbeh, while presenting the award of “Nehemiah of our Time” to the Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Rt Hon. Sir Ude Oko Chukwu.

According to the Minister, “Governor Okezie has re-built Aba and other parts of Abia State and deserves this award from the Church. When you look at where we were before he came and where we are today, you will no doubt acknowledge that we have made good progress that nobody can deny.”

In his response, Governor Ikpeazu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, who read the first scripture during the Service, thanked the Church for partnering with his administration to deliver dividends of democracy to the people of the state and promised to do much more to make life better for the people.

“We appreciate the support and prayers of the Church. While the the Church is building the spiritual life of our people, it is our job as political leaders to deliver the necessary socio-economic infrastructure that will enable our people to enjoy a better quality of life and do well in whatever their hands find to do.

“My Promise to you is that we will do much more than we have done, with God on our side and the continuing support and prayers of Ndi Abia. We will not let your down and our commitment to your welfare will never wane.”

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Chief Jerry O. Kalu, expressed appreciation to the Governor for honoring their invitation and promised that the church will continue to pray for him and partner with his administration in all spheres, including education, to ensure the rapid development of the state.

Chief Kalu used the opportunity to inform the Governor of their plan to construct a 57-room students hostel at Michael Okpara University Umudike and pleaded with the Governor to support the project which is aimed at providing affordable accommodation to students of the institution.

The Deputy Governor was accompanied to the event by senior government officials including the Commissioner For Agriculture, Rt. Hon. Uzor Azubuike, who also received award as a “Man of Valour”, Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu and other top government officials.

~Reagan Ufomba

When we decided to down tool of over a decade of agitation for good governance and positive change, and opposition to bad governance, stealing and drifts in statecraft, so as to give vent to an emerging development-oriented phenomenon in our Gods own State, Abia, many did not believe us. Our reasons for so doing can be seen and felt.

In the last three years, characterized mainly by world-wide economic recession, pausity of funds, learning currves espected of a young governor, Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu has consistently maintained a steady hand in governance with great commitment and panache to the admiration of many. That he enjoys overwhelming support from across the State speaks to his spirit of doggedness, equity, inclusiveness, fairness and justice. He has shown to have the gravitas, pressence of mind and understanding of the issues at stake, although limited by several imbalances and defficiencies plaguing our dear nation, requiring redress and restructuring.

The vibes across our State point to the fact that the performances of the Governor point to a glimering light at the end of the tunnel – and we shall get there.

It is therefore trite to state that his’ is a generational statement anchored on truth, commitment to service, positive change, faith in God, and trust in mankind which only sustainability can enable and perfect. Being a man committed to service delivery, humble, has listening ears, and the fear of God, I have no doubt in my mind that his uniterupted tenure of Eight ( years, would change the narrative of performance efficiency in the State.

It is in the light of the above that all well meaning Abian have decided in unison to collectively watch the moon from the same arena and not from our respective cocoons so as to give the required push, punch and pressure capable of breaking walls, racial, economic and political barriers, and engender growth and efficient service delivery for our people.

May I, therefore wish the Governor and the great people of Abia State well as we mark this Democracy Day, on this 29th day of the lord, 2018, which coincides with his third year in office.

I see light at the end of the tunnel, and even greater light in the years ahead; Happy Democracy Day !

-Ochiagha Reagan Ufomba was the 2011 Governorship candidate of APGA in Abia State.

The Wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu today attended the burial of late Elder Friday Ogbonna Ohia, the father of a personal security detail officer attached to the wife of the Delta State Governor, Dame Edith Okowa.

Mrs. Ikpeazu, who was at Abala Primary School ground, Abala Autonomous community in Obingwa LGA, venue of the burial ceremony identified with the bereaved family in their moment of grief.

May the soul of late Elder Friday Ogbonna Ohia rest in peace. Amen!

#AbiaOnline

#AbiaOnline

A One Million Man March was today organized in support of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's reelection by the Abia State Market Almagameted Traders Association (ASMATA) in Umuahia.

The march, which saw the traders walk on the streets of Umuahia in their numbers and terminated at Government House, witnessed unanimous endorsement of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu as the consensus governorship candidate of the traders in the State in 2019 general elections.

Addressing the mammoth crowd of traders, the Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu announced a donation of a coaster bus to the ASMATA and appreciated the solidarity shown to him, saying that it is the greatest show of love from them.

The Governor said he values traders in the State, explaining that, he made trade & commerce one of the pillars of development of his administration because of his value for traders. He informed that the Umuchichi Road in Aba has been awarded for construction, also that work would soon commence at Ngwa Road and Uratta and Road in Aba, disclosing that non of the roads he built has pot holes as he has maintained building of quality road infrastructure in the State.

Dr. Ikpeazu also said that he is building roads in Aba to ensure the markets in Aba have good roads connecting the markets and traders from neighbouring States.

He promised to ensure ease of doing business for all traders in Abia State and, urged then to ensure they get their PVCs in readiness for 2019 elections, adding that time for promise and fail has gone.

According to him any politician who wants the peoples' votes must show the people what he has done for them warning that no opposition party member should post bills on the projects he has done for the people of the State.

Earlier, the President, ASMATA, Chief Emeka Enechebe said they had the march in support of the Governor for his great achievements in the State, including the construction of the Faulks road that leads to Ariaria International Market among others and conveyed the decision of the traders to adopt Dr. Ikpeazu as the only governorship candidate for 2019 elections which they unanimously affirmed to.

According to the Chairman and other traders that spoke at the event, traders in the State are ready to do all within their powers to ensure Governor Okezie Ikpeazu retained his position till 2023.

#AbiaOnline

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has held a Town Hall meeting with teenagers from select schools in the State at Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.

Reacting to questions raised by the students the Governor assured the students that he would provide three mobile laboratories, one each for students in the three Senatorial zones of Abia State.

The Governor, who said he would not spare any cost to ensure Abia children become great in future disclosed that 72 secondary schools’ infrastructure have been rehabilitated, also informed that soon, the State would begin to address the issue of insecurity in the schools.

He urged the students to be proud of Abia as Abia is a skill based State, adding that his government is ready to provide the ambiance with which they would thrive. Dr Ikpeazu informed that his style of youth empowerment is through skill acquisition, hence, multi skill acquisition centre has been established for youths and to learn modern carpentering, brick laying, fabric making among others . He said the Made in Aba products are making are growing greatly and over two billion naira has been attracted for the Aba shoe makers, expressing hope that one day the Super Eagles Jessy would be made in Aba as the Aba artisans have improved in their skills.

Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Teenage Matters, Mrs. Chinemenma Umesiaka thanked the Governor for making out time to interact with Abia students.

She described the Town Hall meeting as first of its kind and enjoined the students to make good use of the opportunity to interact with the education friendly Governor of the State.

Recently we brought you the first episode of an investigation of a land dispute between Dr. Alex Otti and Young Edward Kanu Obiakor Jnr, both from Arochukwu. We had to move a step further to conduct a live interview with Edward Kanu Obiakor Jnr.

In this interview, the young man traced the origin of his interaction with Dr. Alex Otti, the beginning of the crisis and measures he has taken to reclaim his property.

HEAR HIM:

Q: CAN WE MEET YOU?

My name is Edward Kanu Obiakor Jnr, from Ujari village Arochukwu in Abia State. I am the only son of late Prof Edward Kanu Obiakor, the pioneer Rector of Fed. Polytechnic Ado Ekiti.

Q : RECENTLY, FEW DAYS AGO OR SO TO SAY, YOU TOOK TO YOUR FACEBOOK PAGE WHERE YOU LAID A CLAIM THAT A SAID PIECE OF LAND BELONGING TO YOU WAS FORCEFULLY TAKEN AWAY FROM YOU BY DR. ALEX OTTI. CAN YOU TELL US WHAT HAPPENED?

Sometime in 2015, Dr. Alex Otti’s Helicopter, rased the roof of my late fathers filling station located beside his house in Arochukwu. So I Soughted for his number, and I called him, I asked him to renovate the roof because I wanted to rent the filling station out, which he said his PA will take care of it, he furthermore asked me to sell the said property to him, which I refused, I told him it is not for sale, that that is the only property belonging to my late father that remains. Then he said whenever I am ready to sale I should let him know. I had to put up a notice in the filling station, writing “this property is not for sale, beware of 419”.
I base in Port Harcourt, sometime in 2016, I was called from the village that tractors and bulldozers are in the filling station, bulldozing the property. Before I ran down to Arochukwu the filling station was already bulldozed . When I made my enquiries, I was told that Dr. Alex Otti was the man behind the bulldozing of the filling station.

Q: WHEN YOU HEARD, WHAT MEASURES DID YOU TAKE TO DRAW THE ATTENTION OF DR. ALEX OTTI TO THIS THINGS YOU COMPLAINED ABOUT NOW? HAVE YOU EVER CALLED HIM? DID YOU SEEK TO FIND OUT WHY HE WENT INTO YOUR FATHER’S PROPERTY, WHICH IS YOUR PROPERTY?

When I got to the village and saw the situation of things, I mean the filling station being bulldozed by Dr.Alex Otti, I ran to the Eze Aro in Council, the council of chiefs in Arochukwu, when I got there, I laid a complain to them and they said I should bring N8,500 to summoun Dr. Alex Otti, so that they will know the cause of his action, I provided the N8,500,gave it to them and Dr. Alex Otti was summouned. They gave me a date to appear in the Kings palace, on that day Dr. Alex Otti sent one Mazi Nkem Okoro, former Local Government Chairman in Arochukwu Local Government, to represent him. The cabinet gave us another date to come for the hearing of the case, on that day I came to the kings palace but Mazi was no where to be found. They adjourned the case to another day, I also came alone, Mazi Nkem Okoro did not come, being Dr. Alex Otti’s representative in the matter. They adjourned this case to more than five times, I came alone, Mazi Nkem Okoro was no where to be found. From the look of things I saw that something has gone wrong in giving me the justice I required. I aslo went down to Isiala Ngwa, to report the matter, where Dr. Alex Otti comes from, they also did nothing about the case, so I had to go online to cry out for help.

Q: HAS ANY STRUCTURE BEEN RAISED IN THE FILLING STATION? WHAT IS THE SITUATION OF THE SAID FILLING STATION RIGHT NOW?

The filling station has been bulldozed entirely and Dr. Alex Otti went further to fence the filling station, so right now I don’t have access to go into the said land. You know the filling station shares the same fence with his compound, so after bulldozing the filling station he fenced it, joining it with his compound in Arochukwu.

Q: NOW THAT YOU HAVE TRIED ALL THESE MEANS, THE TWO MEAN YOU MENTIONED AND NONE OF THEM SEEMED TO HAVE PAID OFF, WHAT IS YOUR NEXT MOVE?

I believe peace is the best solution to this matter, I don’t have money to take up the matter that is why I went on facebook to make the matter public, so as to get help from anywhere possible. I have also contacted Joseph Otti, being Dr. Alex Otti’s younger brother, I begged him to grant me audience so that I can expalin things to his brother, but he refused, rather he began threatning me, saying his brother bought the filling station. If Dr Alex Otti can take away my inheritance from me without my consent, then I am afraid about what they could do to me. They have no regard for my late father, a Prof of such reputation, they have no regard for me being the only son of that late Professor. All these while, I have been running around looking for people to help me.
To all Abians, please intervene in this matter because I have nobody, I am just a young graduate without a job and being the only son of father I don’t think Dr. Alex Otti did the right thing by taking away my father’s inheritance.

I also voted for him last election and I am very very disappointed that the only way he could thank me was to rip me off my inheritance. Please I am using this means to appeal to Abia Citizens to help me in this case.

LIKE OUR PAGE FOR A FOLLOW UP ON THIS MATTER!

For his magnanimity, for his kindness towards mankind, for his generosity, for his love for academics and excellence, for his gesture towards students and for his commitment to the general wellbeing of the society, Erondu gets another accolade.

Early hours of today, The National Body of Nigeria Optometric Students Association honoured Chief Erondu Jr.

The award was given to Chief Erondu at a dinner organized after this year's conference of Optometrists that was hosted by Abia State Chapter of the Association.

I understand its an annual event that brings together Students of Optometry from different universities in Nigeria who come together to share ideas and think out of the perimeter.

As the saying goes, 'A gold fish has no hiding place'. Chief Erondu is known for associating himself with everything positive and life changing. He has been a pillar to many families.

Chief Erondu was accompanied to the dinner and award ceremony by Uchenna Onyeizu PhD, Engr.Chiemela Erondu and
Comrade Ikechukwu Iroha.

If there is anything Abia State needs most, it is revolutionizing the economy growth of the State. This is very important because an independent economy brings development faster to the society than a dependent economy.

In his campaign promises, Abia Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu vowed to promote the ‘can-do-spirit’ and entrepreneurial instinct of Abia people, especially the youths. Of course, the essence of the promotion of the entrepreneurial instinct have been to revolutionize the economy growth of the State. To achieve this the Governor made Small & Medium Enterprise (SME) one of the five pillars of development of his administration.

Recently in speech, Governor Ikpeazu stressed thus: “Our administration views job creation and skills development as necessary ingredients for our integrated economic development agenda as availability of relevant skill sets in our environment will naturally lead to more investment and further reduction in unemployment related criminal activities”So, one of the ways Governor Ikpeazu is revolutionizing Abia economy is through establishment of Automated Shoe Factory in Aba, which would be housed in the Enyimba Industrial City, now under construction.

The decision to establish the factory necessitated by the brilliance performance of the first 30 thousand Abia youths the Governor sent to China to learn automated shoemaking. These guys surprised even the Chinese supervisors with the way they learnt and manipulated the shoe making machines.

Abia economy has already started growing because of the promotion and publicity Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has given to the ‘Made-in-Aba’ products coupled with his resolve to train 100 youths in automated shoe making in China, which the first badge has gone and come back.

This shoe factory would certainly contribute greatly in the revolutionizing of Abia economy.

Having been trained in the techniques of handling the machines in China and performed beyond expectations, the recently 30 China shoemaking trainees would not only aide the transient from manual shoemaking to automated shoemaking, but will be very instrumental in training many other Abia youths in automated shoemaking.

Upon their return from China, the beneficiaries of the training testified that before now they don’t have enough idea about shoemaking as they were doing everything including cutting of leather, applying of gum with their bare hands. They added that with the automated shoemaking, there are different machines for doing all those things they do with their bare hands, from cutting of leather, mixing chemicals, landing the shoes to finishing stage.

In view of the rigorous shoemaking process, which involves chains of activities, thousands of youths would be employed in the automated shoe factory, especially as the trained shoemakers have vowed to train other artisans and get them empowered.

The Governor deserves to be commended for changing the mentality and psych of his people and artisans who produce shoes in Aba. This effort of the Governor would make Abia a centre of attraction for all and sundry.

As the chief marketer of the ‘Made-in-Aba’ and Abia campaign, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has ensured that the products have been showcased in many trade fairs even in New York. This of course has given great hope to the youths, who are now empowered for life. Indeed, Abia State government under the able leadership of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu is gradually empowering its people and growing the economy of the State.

It has therefore become imperative for all hands to be on the pumps in supporting this genuine effort of the Governor in changing the narrative of entrepreneurship and empowerment in Abia, the God’s own State.

Doubtless, the visionary Governor of the State has good intentions for the State, as other politicians are making political noise about 2019, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu is busy empowering people and growing Abia economy. No wonder, it has been endorsements and adoptions galore in every nook and cranny of the State as Governor Ikpeazu’s giant strides in every sectors of the economy are speaking…

SUPPORT A GOVERNOR AT WORK.

UBANI NEWMAN UBANI,
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor,
(New Media)

09/06/2018.

#AbiaOnline

https://m.youtube.com/watch…

By Kingsley Maduforo

The scorecard of Governor of Abia State, Gov. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, speaks of a man who is in a hurry to get to his destination. He is aware for the desired growth of the state and therefore sees the sustenance of the socioeconomic development of the state as vital.The growth of any nation is strongly linked to its road infrastructure. Lack of good and adequate road network is one of the major factors that hamper development and this informed Ikpeazu's speedy response in tackling the dilapidated road network of the state.

Another giant stride of Gov. Ikpeazu is visible in trade and commerce, which is one of the bedrocks of his administration. With the right policies in place, the made-in-Aba brand has accelerated to a global brand. It has helped boost development and reduce poverty by generating growth through increased commercial opportunities and investment, as well as broadening the productive base through private sector development. It has facilitated our export diversification by allowing investors to invest in our products and materials and this has opened up new production possibilities. Gov. Ikpeazu's great awareness of our local products, has expanded business opportunities for local industries in the state to grow by opening up new markets, removing unnecessary barriers and making it easier for them to export their products.

Harnessing the power of e-commerce for economic and sustainable development is paramount. This is a crucial moment when many governments are spreading their nets, analyzing the impact of digital economy and e-commerce in order to sustain the economic growth and development of their states. E-commerce indeed provides new opportunities and new markets for businesses to strive. It is in fact a powerful driver of economic growth, trade, job creation and promotion of local products. Governments, industries, and civil society organisations must come together so as to prepare to harness the opportunities of e-commerce as well as address its challenges. We can leave no one behind in this developmental journey.

In Abia today, e-commerce is seen as having the potential of becoming a major engine for trade and development. Gov. Ikpeazu is therefore using all avenues and mechanisms to actualize it, by making favourable policies that will help harness the opportunities for sustainable development which are embedded in it. It will expand the digital economy and create more business opportunities in the state. With the rapid improvement in the quality of the made-in-Aba brand, the awareness and popularization of the products as well as their demand will increase through e-commerce.

There has been alot of avenues to promote Made-in-Aba products,from Aba Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ACCIMA),successfully hosting their 3rd Aba International Trade Fair, with the theme: "Promoting Trade and Business Interaction for Sustainable Economic Development of Nigeria.", to our annual Made-in-Aba Trade Fair in Abuja,under the leadership of Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe and successfully hosting Made-in-Aba Fashion both in Abuja and United States by the Governor. This are avenues for promoting and announcing the made-in-Aba brand to the international community. It will enhance the state's competitiveness by reducing the cost of inputs, acquire finance through investment, increase the value added of the products, move up the global value chain, encourage innovation by facilitating exchange of technological know-how, increase investment in research and development, and encourage foreign direct investment.

The genuine effort by this present administration, led by Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu in diversifying the economy of Abia State is highly commendable. Gov. Ikpeazu has created employment opportunities by boosting the economic sector which creates stable jobs and usually higher income, thus improving the livelihood of Abia citizens. The robust economic development agenda put in place by the present administration in the state, is yielding fruits, it has encouraged and sustained our locally-made goods. Aba being the hub of SMEs in Nigeria today is a major source of our strength and it behooves on us to leverage on this factor to promote made-in-Aba products, as Nigeria's brand in terms of products and services since it remains the only means through which sustainable development can be granted.

Trade and commerce strengthen ties between nations by bringing people together in a peaceful and mutually beneficial exchanges and as such contribute to peace and stability. They also play a role in the improvement of quality, labour and environmental standards, the exchange of best practices between trade partners, and the building of capacity in industry and product standard. For these, we need to encourage Gov. Ikpeazu in his drive towards having a varied and dependable economy in Abia state. There is need for total collaboration and collective ideas in achieving the Abia of our dream; together, we can!

Kingsley Maduforo, a Media Analyst, writes from Aba.

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed the immediate suspension of the activities of the task force constituted by Osisioma LGA which was allegedly harassing commercial bus operators around Osisioma junction of Aba.

Bus and other commercial vehicle operators should continue to use their approved loading and offloading facilities within the area.

The Governor expressed displeasure over the alleged harassment of commercial transporters by touts and others and has directed local government authorities to ensure an immediate end to the practice while evolving a more modern and humane way to collect approved revenues.

JOK

Sen. Enyi Abaribe representing Abia South senatorial district sarcastically proposed for Democracy Destruction Day to Commemorate Buhari's Military Obstruction of Democracy on 31st December...



Watch Video:

https://web.facebook.com/abiaonline/videos/911710772332366/

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By Chinenye Nwaogu

It was the turn of pupils Oza Umuebukwu Community Primary school, Oza, Ugwunagbo LGA today to experience the joy of coming to School barefooted and going home with brand New Made in Aba School Shoes.
The school is one of the four schools that won the lottery for shoe to school sponsored by the organization Ngwa United Alliance , USA , their Son Engr. Chidiebere Uzoije entered their name in the lottery and he won so their pupils benefited from it . Ngwa United Alliance ( NUA) Keyed into Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s Abia State shoe to school program being coordinated by Mr Chinenye Nwaogu governor’s SSA on Job Creation. As more people sponsor additional students will receive . The project is anchored on the Made in Aba products campaign of Gov Okezie Ikpeazu.

Chinenye Nwaogu said that the aim of the project is three pronged to support the Made in Aba campaign, create more jobs and market for Made in Aba shoes, create a link between Diasporans and their kits and kins back home. According to him these objectives are being achieved and he encouraged others to key into the project.

Responding on behalf of the students, the headmaster Mr E.M Sunday thanked the donors for putting smiles on the faces of the pupils, he expressed appreciation to Governor Ikpeazu for his visionary leadership leadership which has put Abia on the global map.
The train will tomorrow move to another location.

By Onyenso Abraham Adims
#AbiaOnline

Abians have been urged to actively key into government programmes, own them as well take them seriously. The commissioner for finance, Mr. Obinna Oriaku stated this during a town hall meeting with the people of Mbutu Ukwu ancient Kingdom in Isialangwa south LGA. The commissioner noted that the show of apathy by the people of south east on government businesses induces the elusion in some government benefits on the people that could have ordinarily accrued to them.

Hon. Obinna Oriaku who was represented by chief Orji Oriaku used the occasion to distribute over 400 bags of fertilizer in this farming season to the people of Mbutu Ukwu political bloc which comprises of ward 3 and 4 in Isialangwa South LGA, called on the people to go and register and get their permanent voters' cards (PVC) to be eligible to contribute their quoter in the shaping of the Nigerian political history, come 2019.

The fertilizers which were distributed to the different polling units were shared among those who had registered for PVCs so as to encourage others to register and benefit from the recurrent programme of the commissioner in subsequent batches.

Reacting, Hon. Chief Demian Ozurumba (Toto) of the Onuochi foundation and erstwhile House of Representatives member for Isialangwa North and South federal constituency called on the people to use this extension of the registration exercise to resister and have their PVCs which he described as their weapon to defend their territory.

He noted that the unamenable exhibition of some persons in the south east region of the nation on programmes like census exercise and PVC registration affects what accrues to the zone on the national budget.

Contributing, Hon. Chidi Eñeogwe thanked the Governor for appreciating their people by building two of their important roads including the Umuocheala road and thanked the Commissioner for providing the farmers the farms input for improved yield this farming season.

Some persons that attended the meeting includes Chief Chidi Nwoha, Deputy leader, Isialangwa legislative council, Prince Joseph Williams, PDP Chairman, Isisalangwa south LGA among many others

Business mogul and Abia House of Assembly aspirant in 2019 election,Hon. Chief Humphrey Chukwudi Benson has said that Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s total victory in 2019 is assured, given the giant strides recorded so far by his Government.

Hon. Benson, who is aspiring to represent Umuahia South in the Abia House of Assembly, gave this assurance in an interview with Nigerian Pilot in Umuahia during the mega rally organised by the eight local government areas that make up old Bende division in honour of Abia state Governor for his second term bid.

Benson further explained that Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has delivered the dividends of democracy to Abians, little wonder, his old Bende people rolled out drums to honour him and unanimously endorsed his reelection bid come 2019.

He noted that the lecturer- turned Abia Governor has excelled in all the sectors of the state economy, not minding court litigations and therefore assured him of the massive votes of Abians in 2019.

Asked what prompted his decision to run for Abia House seat, he informed our Correspondent that it is selfless service to his Umuahia South people who are yearning earnestly for effective representations.

The youthful aspirant explained that this is his second, having first took a shot at the Abia Assembly seat in 2014 without success. He however, expressed optimism in making it this time around, noting that he has learnt the political ropes enough to emerge his party’s ticket bearer and had been a party man since then till date.

Benson, who added that the political zone favours his Umuopara clan which last tasted the Assembly seat in 1999-2003, called on the Ubakala clan on the need to respect the zoning formula agreed on for the interest of peace, equity and fairness.

Hon. Benson, who described Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and Senator T A Orji as great leaders and his mentors, promised to replicate their political feats at the Abia House of Assembly if given the mandate by his people.

Meanwhile, Chief Augustine Adighiogu has described the aspiration of Hon. Benson as a welcome development for Umuahia South people given his lofty contributions to the growth and development of council area.

Adighiogu, who is the campaign manager of Hon. Benson, further told our reporter that before now the Assembly aspirant has been a philanthropist of note, touching lives of the youth, aged and women, sponsoring football competition’s among villages that make up Umuopara clan.

http://nigerianpilot.com/ikpeazus-total-victory-assured-in…/

Breaking News:

MRS. IKPEAZU VISITS ABIA HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, ADVOCATE FOR ABIA WOMEN'S RIGHT.

#AbiaOnline

Promote the review and application of moral legal instruments that protects the rights of the women, she tells Abia House of Assembly.

Worthy to note is that, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu is the first Abia governor's wife to visit the Abia House of Assembly.

What an advocacy!

More details later...

#AbiaOnline

As part of this year's World Environment Day celebrations, the Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu and his Wife, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu have planted commemorative palm trees.

Speaking at the premises of the Vicar Hope Foundation, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, where they planted Tenera palm seedlings, the Governor called on people to cultivate the habit of planting trees in the environment.
He advocated the planting of beneficial trees like Tenera palm seedlings in every available space.

Conducting the Governor and the wife round the specific places of planting the trees, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Rt. Honourable Uzo Azubuike appreciated the efforts of the Governor in agriculture, especially in raising of more than two million Tenera palm seedlings.

He made it known that Abia has remained number in raising palm seedlings and called on all to identify with the Governor's agricultural revolution.

This second segment of the World Environmental Day ended with the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu showing her husband, the Governor, round the Vicar Hope Foundation complex.

Monday June 4, 2018, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu was in the University of Nigeria Nsukka to attend the 14th Eni Njoku memorial lecture and from the moment he arrived the atmosphere around the PAA venue changed.

Lecturers and students were screaming everywhere “Okezuo Abia...my Governor” and it was quite hectic for the Governor’s security aides to make way for him to enter and later exit.

Still the Governor managed to remain calm and wave all the way to his vehicle.

When we returned to Umuahia, I thought we will just drive into Michael Okpara University Umudike and he will deliver his 2018 environment day address and we leave.

For where?

What we met at Umudike made UNN look like a rehearsal of sorts.

The ecstatic students and their lecturers were all over the common Governor who was the former Head of Biochemistry Department at ESUT Enugu. They shouted, pushed and screamed so much that it was difficult for his usually formidable security aides to literally breathe.

We only heaved a sigh of relief when he managed to enter the lecture hall with his host, Prof Otunta, the Vice Chancellor of the institution and other Principal officers of the school.
It took an elaborate decoy to smuggle him out to another state event as the students moved towards where they thought he was heading to within the school and his convoy moved in another direction.

Even then the Governor was still waving to his people from his wound down window all the way to Umuahia town.

The academia is obviously proud of one of their own who is leading the way in good governance through innovation and uncommon devotion to duty.

VC Francis Otunta apparently spoke the mind of the academia when he hilariously said: “we consider you to be on leave of absence and we are giving you 8 years plus one year sabbatical and after that you must return or we stop your salary”.

Personally, I know Governor Ikpeazu will be fully back to the classroom by the end of 2023. He loves that world and the people in that world love him too.

In all these there is a lesson: “whatever your hand findeth to do....” Dr Okezie Victor Chibuikem Ikpeazu of Umuobiakwa village in Obingwa LGA of Abia State has never failed on any mission and Abians knew that even in 2015. Most of those who didn’t support him then knew he was a natural performer but they were bitten by the “Change” bug that was ravaging the electoral world then.

But don't bet against an Ikpeazu landslide victory in 2019. He has proved himself, once more, as a real victor and performer across all sectors.


JOK

#AbiaOnline

Abia State government in collaboration with Michael Okpara University of Agriculture has celebrated the 2018 World Environment Day at Pius Anyim auditorium of the university.

Speaking at the event, the Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu called on all to refuse the use of plastics if they cannot re-use them. According to him all hands must be on deck to combat plastic pollution to make the environment better for it.

The Governor said some ways of reducing the plastic pollution are recycling, landfill, composing, incineration refuse and plastic bank approach. He also urged people to plant trees in the environment, especially palm tress even as he and the wife performed tree planting exercises.

Receiving the Governor earlier, the Vice Chancellor, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Prof. Francis Ogbonnaya Otunta, regretted that plastics have become menace to the environment. He pointed out that the theme "Beat Plastics Pollution" was apt as it calls for action against environmental menace.

Prof. Otunta informed that the school has remained consistent in celebrating World Environment Day and contributing through research to draw people's attention to issues of preserving the environment.
He called for a concerted efforts to fight the ills meted against the environment

Contributing, the Head, Enviromental Management & Ecology, Prof. Emmanuel Nzegbule said the essence of the programme was to draw the attention of the world to the menace of plastics to the environment. He recommended that paper bags should be used instead of plastics, revealing that plastics take centuries to decompose and should not be littered in the environment but recycled.

Born2Breed:
Imagine the silly topic. Raping a blessing in disguise?

Read the post and stop talking like a block head

fergie001:
My people,can you now see the "sigidi" we have in Abia?

Even Ubani could not even receive sense,so it took for a near-rape incident for the Governor to visit Ovim?
So for other girls schools to receive attention, they must fling their doors and legs open to get an attention from this 'near-miss' of a Governor.
Ubani,you should be ashamed of yourself.....

It's unfortunate that you guys can not for once think look at an issue from a positive angle... Anyone no one gives what he or she does not have.... It's very obvious

zigi:
How can the raping and maiming of innocent students be a blessing in disguise I dont want rmto beleive that this writter used his head to buy tomatoes??

Therae nothing like rapping of anyone... Can you please watch the video and hear the students and the school principal relate what happened?

zigi:
How can the raping and maiming of innocent students be a blessing in disguise I dont want rmto beleive that this writter used his head to buy tomatoes??

There nothing like rapping of anyone... Can you please watch the video and hear the students and the school principal relate what happened?

By Onyenso Abraham Adims
#AbiaOnline

The Abia state commissioner for Finance, Mr. Obinna Oriaku has advised students to take their studies seriously in other to come out tops and be a bride highly sought for in the labour market. He made this disclosure when the new executives of the National Association of Abia state students, Abia state Polytechnic Aba, Chapter paid him a courtesy visit in his office. He said that the unavailable white collar jobs today has made it imperative for students to acquaint themselves with knowledge of skills for self sustainability.

He regretted that their school was on strike some weeks ago, and promised that government was working out lasting solutions to the problems that led to the industrial action some of which includes salary padding, over staffing which has over blown the wage bill of the institution and effected the student’s population from 22,000 to 12,000.

Mr. Oriaku disclosed that Government has commenced some reforms to reposition the institution to a glorious state and urged the students to be anti-corruption ambassadors by partnering the Government in exposing any anomalies noticed in the administration of the Abia state polytechnic to the government authorities.

The commissioner encouraged the students to support the administration of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu in the state, adding that his administration means well, and will never allow any force run down the institution and promised to support them in their programmes.

Earlier in his speech, the president of the students, Mr. Ahiwe Josiah Chinonso thanked the Governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu for working out modalities that ended the industrial action and express their happiness for being back in school and pledged to partner with the state government in implementing the reforms that will place the institution in a new pedestal.

By Ubani Newman Ubani (UNU)
#AbiaOnline

Sometime around 24th - 25th May 2018, the online media was awash with news of a rapist who was said to have invaded Ovim Girls' Methodist secondary school dormitory, inflicted injuries on students in an attempt to steal their belongings and probably tried raping without success.

The news traveled with the speed of light, wailers howled to the high heavens and coursed the dead to be tortured in their graves. But in their wailing they forgot that God can use an ugly situation to bring about something beautiful and profitable for those little ones.


Now, having followed the aftermath of that attack at the Methodist Girls Model Secondary School Ovim in Isuikwuato Local Government Area by a hoodlum, the salient questions are;

1. Could it be said the attack was a blessing in disguise?



2. Ordinarily, could the Governor have had an urgent need to visit the Methodist Girls Model Secondary School Ovim had such an incident not occurred?


Answers for the above questions are found in the Governor's words during his visit at the school;

"This seeming sad event has brought me face to face with some of your challenges" - Governor Ikpeazu.

Following the incident, the education friendly Governor of Abia State, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, Ph.D visited the school along side his wife, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu. The Governor's visit put smiles on the faces of both the management and students of the school. This is because the Governor promised that his would provide a 50 KVA generator to them and install street lights within the school premises to improve the security of the entire premises. With this in place, the safety of the students would be more guaranteed.

It is good for highly placed individuals to, always, support government in intervening in matters of urgent important like this invasion of Ovim Girls' school premises. Hence, Emeka Ikwuagwu deserves to be commended for standing in to support the State government by intervening and being the first person to report the incident to government as well as went ahead to provide succor by renovating an old abandoned hostel of the school. He did that for the school in support of the Governor's donations to the school. No wonder the Governor commended him for that intervention during his visit to the school.


This singular action of Emeka Ikwuagwu is an example of what is expected by all well-meaning Abians who want progress and development of the State. All Abia politicians are expected to toe the line of Emeka Ikwuagwu and stop playing politics of bitterness and rancor. It is high time Abia people learnt how to corporate and collaborate with governmental authorities to achieve success.

The need for Abians to rally round the Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu cannot be over-emphasized, especially as it has become obvious that the Governor sees all Abians and institutions in Abia as one. Let us eschew bitterness and work together to return Ikpeazu in 2019 and retain these monumental achievements and development.

SUPPORT A GOVERNOR AT WORK!


UNU,
03/06/2018.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiPMNaPRKhQ

ABIA ONLINE NEWS – ENVIRONMENT

#AbiaOnline

Ahead of the 2018 World Environment Day taking place on Tuesday, June 5th, Abia State government in collaboration with Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOAU) has kicked off the celebrations with a walk in the Streets of Umuahia town today.

Addressing people after the exercise, the Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu said the menace of plastics in the environment are enormous as it blocks the drainages and kills fishes and other aquatic animals

The Governor, who spoke through his Special Adviser on General Duties, Chief Erondu Uchenna Erondu Junior requested Abians to embrace the campaign on reducing the use of plastics in the environment.

He said a healthy environment is a wealthy environment and pleaded with the people to be conscious of their environment.

In their various speeches, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment and Ecology, Dr. Uche Onyeizu and the representative of the Vice Chancellor, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Prof. Emmanuel Nzegbula said there was need for all to take care of the environment.

They said in line with the theme of 2018 World Environment Day “Beat Plastic Pollution. If You Can’t Reuse It, Refuse It” people should try to reduce plastics on the environment by ensuring that paper bags are used more than plastics or recycling the plastics. They further informed that the essence of the exercise was to draw the attention of the world to the menace and environmental hazards caused by plastics.

According to them, the exercise was a prelude to the week long activities to commemorate the the event, adding that there will other programmes to mark the event on Tuesday, next week, including Symposium

Also speaking, the Project Coordinator, Nigeria Erosion & Watershed Management Project, (NEWMAP), Engr. Izuchukwu Onwughara assured that the NEWMAP in the State would continue to carry out sensitization on how best to keep the environment safe from the menace caused by plastics and other non biodegradable materials in the society.

He said that livelihood programmes would also be sustained to ensure those activities contributing to the environmental hazards were curbed and make Abia State environment better for it.

IKPEAZU'S E4E: CLOSING THE GAP BETWEEN THEORY AND PRACTICAL...

There is always a gap between theory and practical in many disciplines including education, more especially, in technical education system.

A number of factors that contribute to this gap between theory and practical can be identified. But the most threatening is the lack of qualified personnel to champion the practical aspect of our technical education included within the technical curriculum.

This is a very challenging task in our technical education bracket because of its inherently interdisciplinary nature.

But, how can the theory-practical gap be reconciled?

To start, educators must be able to continually assess their programmes to ensure they are up-to-date and consistent with current practical-theory in vogue world over. This assessment informed the decision of the Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu led Abia State government to, in collaborate with National Board for Techinal Education(NBTE), organize a five(5) days national skills acquisition and certification training for Abia Technical and Vocational Education Training(TVET) personnel, which was sponsored by Ford Foundation.

Technical education is a term applied to schools, institutions, and educational programs/system that specialize in the skilled trades, applied sciences, modern technologies, and career preparation.

In his campaign promises, Abia Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu vowed to promote the 'can-do-spirit' and entrepreneurial instinct of Abia people and Abia entirely, especially the youths. And having made SME one of his pillars of development, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has decided to bridge the gap between theory and practical in technical education. Hence, he has not relented in ensuring that Abia people gain technical education with practical, and not theory alone as the case had been.

First of all, he established and launched Education for Employment (E4E) Scheme in September, 2015, a scheme that aims at training youths on several skill acquisitions coordinated by an able mind, Mr. Endi Ezengwa (Chairman, Kiara College). The programme has already graduated 460 youths who received certificates from the National Board for Technical Education, otherwise known as NBTE, a board of education, which supervises, regulates and oversees educational programmes offered by technical institutions at secondary.

Obviously, Education for Employment (E4E ) serves as the tool in the hands of Dr. Ikpeazu being used to change the future and fortune of Abia youths.

The recent ground breaking ceremony of the Dangote Education for employment (E4E) Job Centre at Okpuala Ngwa in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of the state has given a boost to the pledge of the Ikpeazu led administration to offer technical and vocational education training to 100 thousand youths

Last year, the State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu assured the graduands of the empowerment programme of the Executive Chairman of Isialangwa North, Chief Ginger O. Onwusibe, that Abia State government will purchase with five hundred thousand Naira each, the products of the first ten persons among them. That gesture certainly serves as another form of encouragement and moral booster to the entrepreneurs. Furthermore, during the 2018 Democracy Day celebration, the Governor reiterated his promise to ensure government patronize the youths who graduate from the skill acquisition centres in the State.

It is crystal clear that the Governor's intension is to enhance technical education through E4E and gradually grow the economy of the State. This shows that Dr. Ikpeazu's empowerment strategy is very much different from others as he aims at empowering people via a lifetime empowerment strategy.

This is why the government stresses much on acquiring real skills for its citizens other than forcing youths into transport businesses that do not last.

It is in line with this that government took many youths overseas, particularly, Turkey and China to learn modern shoe-making techniques to make them understand what real empowerment means. And for the Governor, the greatest achievement in that regard is that these artisans have been to Turkey and China to see things for themselves and learn from their counterparts over there.

It is note worthy that the Governor did not just introduce the artisans to the modern shoe and garment-making and other skills but has taken it upon himself to lead the campaign beyond the shores of Nigeria.

Indeed, Abia State government under the able leadership of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu is gradually empowering its people and growing the economy of the State through Education for Employment (E4E). In order to sustain this, there is need for all to get their PVC ready for Ikpeazu's reelection. Reelecting Dr Okezie Ikpeazu would certainly create more opportunities for more people to benefit from Education for Employment and be able to stand on their own.

It has therefore become imperative for all hands to be on deck in supporting this genuine effort of the Governor in changing the narrative of entrepreneurship and empowerment in Abia through Education for Employment (E4E).

UBANI NEWMAN UBANI,
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor,
(New Media)
02/06/2018.

#AbiaOnline


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLBYrXa6xK4

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=909189139251196&id=454791201357661

Abia: IF YOU DECIDE NOT TO CONTEST AGAIN, WE WILL GET A COURT INJUNCTION MANDATING YOU TO RE-CONTEST - Old Bende People.


#AbiaOnline

The people of old bende have endorsed governor occasion for a second term in office.

Speaking during the mega rally and reception organized by the Old Bende people in honour of the Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu at event centre Umuahia, the Deputy Governor and Chairman, Organizing Committee, Rt. Hon. Sir. Ude Oko Chukwu said the Old Bende people gathered to appreciate the giant strides of the Governor and to call on him to offer himself to be reelected in 2019.

He said the decision to host Governor Ikpeazu was based on his works that speak for him as a dedicated servant of the State, who is committed to taking Abia to higher heights

In their speeches, Senator T. A Orji , Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, Chief Sam Onuigbo, Rt. Hon. Sir. Cosmos Ndukwe and others said Governor Ikpeazu has performed creditably and deserves to be reelected.

According to them, if the Governor decides not to contest again, they would get a Court injunction, mandating him to re-contest , affirming that he was doing well.

Also, representatives of Traditional Rulers, Presidents General, women and students bodies all praised Governor Okezie Ikpeazu' s achievements, assuring him of sustained support to him.

Presenting a communiqué on behalf of the Old Bende people, Maazi Sam Ohuabunwa said the people were satisfied with the performance of the Governor so far and said based on his achievements, he would be given a block vote in next year's elections.

In a reaction, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu
commended the people for their doggedness and urged them to continue growing the economy and appreciated them for hosting him.
He said Abia State cannot be complete without the people of Old Bende saying that the people have contributed greatly to the development of Abia economy.

He further assured the people that the State is safe in his hands, and he would continue to serve the State with honesty and transparancy adding that all he has achieved in the last three years would not have been possible without the people.