₦airaland Forum

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has signed the anti-open grazing bill into law, at the Government House, Enugu.

The bill which is for a law to prohibit open grazing, regulate cattle ranching, and for connected purposes was recently passed by the Enugu State House of Assembly.

Recall that the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu, had explained after the passage of the bill, that it would be cited as the "Prohibition of Open Grazing and Cattle Ranching Law of Enugu State" after the governor’s assent.

Gov. Ugwuanyi's assent to the bill is expected to improve security and peace in the state.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

The 17 Governors of Southern Nigeria will on Thursday, September 16, 3021, converge on Enugu State, for their third meeting this year.

The meeting being hosted by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi holds at the Government House, Enugu.

It would be recalled that the first and second meetings of the Southern Governors, which deliberated on regional and national issues, were held in Delta and Lagos states, respectively.

2021 PDP National Convention: NEC can only decide its zoning formulae after Gov. Ugwuanyi’s zoning committee sends its report to the organ for deliberation, says party spokesperson

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said it cannot decide where to zone its 2023 presidential ticket as well as the National Working Committee (NWC) offices until some issues are resolved, PREMIUM TIMES reports, as Governors Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State chair convention planning and zoning committees respectively.

After its 93rd National Executive Council (NEC) meeting attended by governors, lawmakers, former ministers and other leaders on Thursday, in Abuja, the party also said it has approved the two new committees in preparation for its forthcoming national convention.

PREMIUM TIMES sighted at least eight out of the 13 governors elected on PDP platform, as well as its two-term Vice-President and 2019 Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, attended the meeting which was presided over by the party's Acting National Chairman, Yemi Akinwonmi.

The embattled National Chairman, Uche Secondus, was conspicuously absent.

At a press conference held after the long closed-door meeting, the PDP spokesperson Kola Ologbondiyan told journalists that the NEC approved the composition of the National Convention Organising Committee and a Zoning Committee to arrive at a favourable zoning formulae for National Working Committee (NWC) offices.

"The new committees will be chaired by the Governors of Adamawa and Enugu states, Ahmadu Fintiri, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, respectively, while Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, and the Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, will deputise the duo.

"The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, was appointed as the secretary of the convention organising committee while the Deputy Governor of Zamfara, Mahdi Aliyu, will serve as the secretary of the zoning committee.

“NEC approved the composition of the National Convention Organising Committee as well as the Zoning Committee to zone the National Working Committee offices.

“NEC approved Ahmadu Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State as Chairman 2021 National Convention Committee. Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, as the deputy chairman of the committee while Engineer Seyi Makinde is to serve as the committee secretary.

“On Zoning Committee, NEC approved Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the Governor of Enugu State as chairman, Dr Samuel Ortom, the Governor of Benue State is the deputy chairman while Barrister Madi Aliyu Muhammed, the deputy governor of Zamfara State, is secretary of the Zoning Committee,” Ologbondiyan said.

He said NEC can only decide its zoning formulae after the committee sends its report to the organ for deliberation.

Ologbondiyan did not disclose the names of the other members of the committees and the duration they are to serve but assured journalists that they will be named before the convention.

With the fate of its national chairman Uche Secondus uncertain, the main opposition party has since fixed its national convention for 30 and 31 October.

Ologbondiyan said the party will not change the date as it continues to work to resolve all pending issues among members.

The PDP held its elective convention in December 2017 when the current Secondus-led NWC was elected.

The leadership crisis rocking the party forced the party to move the coming convention to October.

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has expressed gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Federal Government for selecting Enugu State Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Office to serve as the accelerator/innovation hub for the South East states. 


Speaking during the opening ceremony of a two-day United Nations (UN) joint workshop on Institutionalizing Social Protection for Accelerated SDGs Implementation in Nigeria, in Enugu, the State Commissioner for Special Duties and the Focal Person on SDGs, Hon. Mrs. Mabel Agbo, who represented Gov. Ugwuanyi at the event, assured the UNDP and the Federal Government that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration will not take the selection for granted.


Mrs. Agbo stressed that the state government will cooperate with the UNDP and the federal agency and work assiduously to ensure that the aim of selecting Enugu State to serve as the zonal accelerator/innovation hub is achieved. 


“Fortunately, we have a governor in Enugu State who has a heart for the poor and vulnerable”, the Commissioner said, adding that “the moment this workshop is able to address the issue of capacity, the modalities for implementation will be smoothly addressed by our highly compliant and ever willing governor (Ugwuanyi).


“As you therefore deliberate on your well chosen topic, ‘Institutionalizing Social Protection for Accelerated SDGs Implementation in Nigeria’, be rest assured of the commitment of the state government to the implementation of the resolutions and takeaways reached to further strengthen the SDGs implementation in the state”, she said. 


Mrs. Agbo also commended the state’s private sector partners namely Phinotec Company Nigeria Limited, White Concept Construction Nigeria Limited and Fordmarx Nigeria Limited for their consistency in terms of financial support.


Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs), Mrs. Orelope Adefulire, represented by the Office’s Senior Technical Adviser, Yusuf Yunusa Bala, explained that the cardinal aim of the SDGs, embedded in the federal and state governments’ objectives, is to uplift the standard of living of the people through budgetary allocations to health, education, potable water supply, innovations and skills acquisition, among others. 

Bala pointed out that the noble objectives are being driven by bureaucracies of government, revealing that the choice of Enugu was because of its central location, peaceful atmosphere and the state government’s commitment to the laudable vision of SDGs.


He reiterated President Muhammadu Buhari’s determination to lift Nigerians out of poverty, stating that the prevailing challenges in the country will hopefully come to an end in no distant time. 


The UNICEF Country Coordinator, Dr. Faizat Busari and his UNDP counterpart, Dr. Amaranth Koontz Bundara were at the event.

Following the retirement of Hon. Justice Ngozi Priscilla Emehelu, the immediate past Chief Judge of Enugu State, from the service of the State Judiciary on September 7, 2021, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi on Wednesday swore in Hon. Justice Afojulu Raymond Ozoemena as the acting Chief Judge. 

Swearing in Hon. Justice Ozoemena as the acting Chief Judge, Gov. Ugwuanyi explained that the decision was based on the order of seniority of the Judges of Enugu High Court as confirmed by the National Judicial Council (NJC) via its letter Ref. No. NJC/S.14/HC.EN/9/1/228 dated September 1, 2021.

The governor stated that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as amended, did not contemplate that vacancy should exist in the office of the Chief Judge of a State given the sensitivity of the office and its functions. 

He added that section 271 sub-section 4 of the Constitution empowers the Governor of a State to appoint the most senior Judge of the High Court to perform the functions of a Chief Judge of a State if vacancy occurs in the position until a person has been appointed to and has assumed the functions of that office.

Gov. Ugwuanyi therefore congratulated Hon. Justice Ozoemena for his well-deserved appointment as the acting Chief Judge of Enugu State, expressing confidence that he will bring his juristic erudition, diverse experience and gravitas to bear on the administration of the Enugu State Judiciary. 

According to the governor, “I wish you well and pray for God to grant you the strength and wisdom to discharge this herculean duty”.

Responding, Hon. Justice Ozoemena thanked God for making it possible for him to be sworn in as acting Chief Judge of Enugu State and appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi, who he said he holds in high esteem, for his elevation. 

The acting Chief Judge paid glowing tributes to the retired Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Emehelu, for the quality leadership she provided in the State Judiciary and promised to keep all the worthy legacies she left behind as well as improve on them.

“I am personally influenced by what Hon. Justice Emehelu did; the way she was mothering all of us; we regarded her as a Mommy in the State Judiciary”, he said.

Hon. Justice Ozoemena also urged the Judges and other officials of the Judiciary to accord him the same maximum support and cooperation they accorded the outgone Chief Judge “because I have come to serve the State Judiciary”. 

The event was witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, the President, State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice George Nnamani, the Chief Judge emeritus, Hon. Justice Emehelu, the State Attorney-General, Chief Miletus Eze, Judges, members of the State Judicial Service Commission, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prof. Malachy Okwueze, and the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Mrs. Mabel Agbo, among others.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

The Methodist Church of Nigeria Prelate, His Eminence, Dr. Samuel Chukwuemeka Kanu Uche, has advised Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, to ensure that the governorship position continues to rotate among the three senatorial districts of the state, namely Enugu East, Enugu West and Enugu North, for peace, unity and progress to continue to flourish in the state.

The Supreme Head of the Methodist Church of Nigeria gave the advice when he led the Archbishops, Bishops, other Methodist Clergy and the laity to pray at the Enugu State Government House Chapel, on Friday.

The Methodist Prelate and others are in Enugu State for the 9th National Convention of the Church, holding at Michael Okpara Square, Enugu.

In his sermon at the Chapel, Dr. Kanu Uche, who commended Gov. Ugwuanyi “for giving us a Chapel”, added: “That shows you (Ugwuanyi) have God in your mind and the Lord you love will never disappoint you; you will finish your tenure in peace and hand over to a good person like you who fears God”.

The Prelate therefore advised the governor to follow the chart that was brought up by the founding fathers of Enugu State, and ensure that the governorship position of the state rotates among Enugu East, Enugu West and Enugu North senatorial districts.

In their separate prayer points, two Archbishops and the Prelate offered prayers for the restoration of peace and security in Nigeria; prayers against the activities of bandits in the country; and prayers for the sustenance of peace, security and progress in Enugu State, respectively.

In his address after the prayers, Gov. Ugwuanyi respectfully welcomed the Prelate, the Archbishops, the Bishops and other Methodist faithful to the Enugu State Government House Chapel, expressing delight that the landmark visit and the prayers offered for the country, the government and good people of Enugu State in “the first purpose-built Enugu State Government House Chapel” were inspiring and cherished.

The governor noted that the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria had occasion to do same in the Chapel, on August 24, 2021, during the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) which held in Enugu from August 19-27.

“This spectacular show of love, care and support is motivating and spiritually enriching. I humbly enjoin you to continue to pray for peace in our lives, our administration, Enugu State and Nigeria at large.

“I laud the efforts of the Methodist Church (amongst others) in engendering moral restitution, responsible citizenship, peace, unity and national development.

“I pray that Almighty God grants you more strength and wisdom for your selfless service to humanity”, he added.

The Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, members of the State Executive Council led by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, Special Advisers to the Governor, among other top government functionaries, participated in the religious event.

Enugu govt delegation meets with visually impaired Commonwealth Boxing Gold Medalist
A delegation of the Enugu State government on Tuesday met with the visually challenged Commonwealth Boxing Gold Medalist from Nomeh in Nkanu East Local Government Area of the state, Mr. Steve Ogboh, in Enugu.  

The meeting, according to a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, was sequel to “the directive of the ever-caring and compassionate Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi”.

The statement added that the Information Commissioner and the Chairman of Nkanu East LGA, Engr. Abel Uchenna Nwobodo, led the government's discussions with the visually impaired boxer, who is also a National Sports Festival Gold Medalist, with a view to finding the best ways to assist him overcome his challenges. 

Mr. Ogboh, who is currently blind, in a video that went viral, identified himself as an indigene of Nomeh in Nkanu East LGA of Enugu State, adding that he won a gold medal for Nigeria in boxing at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in New Zealand.  

The visually impaired Commonwealth Games gold medalist appealed to government at any level to assist him with a smart walking stick and also help him to resolve the communal issues he is having with some people in his community over his identity.

***My brothers and sisters in Enugu State, Let’s indeed pray for Senator Hyde Onuaguluchi rather than exploit his shortcomings to play dirt and selfish politics...

Below true message was published by: Thecitizenng.com

"Enugu: Why we should pray for Senator Hyde Onuaguluchi - Comrade Emma Udemezue Jnr.

"What Senator Hyde Onuaguluchi needs is prayers for God’s infinite mercy and forgiveness rather than encouraging political jobbers, who are being sponsored by a selfish and insatiable politician, to use the former Senator as an object of mischief and baseless propaganda, for their selfish end.

"It is on record that since Senator Onuaguluchi broke The Holy Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, he has measurably diminished in terms of reasoning, coherence and inter-human relationship.

"What played out at the recent Ife-Emelumma Enugu West Senatorial District Unity Rally, held in Awgu LGA, cannot be new to students of political history who are conversant with Senator Onuaguluchi’s temperament and incoherence in public outings, which have always been wild and confrontational.

"However, the fact remains that Senator Onuaguluchi, as a Lone Ranger among the entire leaders and people of Enugu West Senatorial District who were at the said rally, did not speak categorically against the practice of zoning of the office of governor in Enugu State.

"What played out was a display of his usual shortcomings which is quite understandable.

"It is on record that Senator Onuaguluchi once displayed such strange character against Senator Ike Ekweremadu, the day he publicly confronted and embarrassed him (Ekweremadu) for not putting on the Enugu State uniform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to attend the grand finale of the party’s 2020 Local Government Election campaign.

"Senator Ekweremadu wore a jean trouser and a plain shirt to the party’s event and Senator Onuaguluchi was blunt in confronting him (Ekweremadu) saying “I didn’t expect anybody to be here today without this clothe (PDP uniform); screaming: “It is not fair, it is not fair”.

"I know that these political jobbers disturbing public peace today with cooked-up stories; misrepresenting facts of what transpired at the Enugu West rally and making a Mountain out of a Molehill, will not capture and trend on social media this interesting drama that played out between Senator Onuaguluchi and Senator Ekweremadu on that fateful day, because of its consequences on the man sponsoring their nefarious, mischievous and baseless campaign of calumny.

"One would not be surprised to note, therefore, that Senator Onuaguluchi launched a personal attack on the Convener and Chairman of the Central Organising Committee of the said Enugu West rally, Senator Ben Collins Ndu, which was unfortunately misrepresented by mischief makers, in a failed attempt to mislead and undermine the frank message delivered at the rally by the people of Enugu West Senatorial District that it is the turn of Enugu East Senatorial District to produce Gov. Ugwuanyi’s successor in 2023, based on the rotational agreement reaffirmed and endorsed by leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, at its State Caucus meeting of July 7, 2013, attended by Senator Ike Ekweremadu, among others.

"Senator Ben Collins Ndu, from Udi-Ezeagu (Agbaja) axis of Enugu West Senatorial District, is Senator Onuaguluchi’s known political rival, who defeated him (Onuaguluchi) at the poll to represent the people of Enugu West Senatorial District at the National Assembly, in 1999.

"Let us also recall that Senator Onuaguluchi, at the grand finale of the PDP campaign rally held at Udenu LGA on March 6, 2019, leading to the governorship election, displayed similar confrontational character on revered leaders of the party present at the rally, when he alleged that none of them was around when the PDP was formed, except Dr. Okwy Nwodo.

"These three incidences, which are a tip of the iceberg, justify my call for prayers for God’s infinite mercy and forgiveness on Senator Onuaguluchi.

"The public should kindly disregard and discourage the antics of these insensitive elements playing politics with everything.

"We the people of Enugu West Senatorial District have spoken with one voice that it is the turn of Enugu East Senatorial District to produce Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s successor in 2023, and no man, no level of mischief, media blackmail or propaganda will or can change this conscience-driven decision that will cement the existing peace in Enugu State and engender equity and justice in the political lexicon of the state for posterity sake.

"Comrade Emma Udemezue Jnr. writes from Enugu"

Enugu govt flags off second phase of COVID-19 vaccination

…Urges residents to get vaccinated

The Enugu State government under Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has flagged off the second phase of the administration of AstraZeneca and Moderna COVID19 vaccines on the people of the state, in collaboration with Development Partners.

The flag off ceremony which took place at the ESUT Teaching Hospital Parklane, Enugu, was performed on behalf of Gov. Ugwuanyi by his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, who conveyed the governor’s message, enjoining the people of Enugu State to get vaccinated and also observe the non-pharmaceutical methods of preventing the spread of the virus, such as wearing of facemask, regular washing of hands with soap and running water and observing of social distancing protocol, among others.

In his address, the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ENS-PHCDA), Dr. George Ugwu, revealed that the state government achieved 100 percent coverage in the first phase of the AstraZeneca vaccination.

Dr. Ugwu disclosed that the state government has received 60,060 doses of Moderna vaccines to take care of those who did not receive COVID-19 vaccination in the first phase.

The Executive Secretary added that 13,416 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines were also received by the state government to complete the second dose for citizens who previously got only the first dose, during the first phase of the exercise.

He pointed out Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration has trained 1,200 health workers who will ensure effective coverage of the second phase of the vaccination in all the designated Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and General Hospitals across the 17 local government areas of the state.

The ENS-PHCDA boss, who added that some mobile health teams will visit Churches and markets to ensure that every citizen is reached, maintained the all 17 LGAs have effective cold chain mechanisms that preserve the vaccines to sustain their efficacy.

Dr. Ugwu therefore expressed delight that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s unrelenting efforts in the fight against the pandemic as well as his special interest in the provision of quality, accessible and affordable healthcare delivery services to the people of the state were largely responsible for the remarkable feats recorded in the first phase of the vaccination exercise.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Emmanuel Ikechukwu Obi, reiterated the safety of the vaccines and urged those who have not been vaccinated or completed the second dosage in the first phase to do so, accordingly.

In their separate goodwill messages, the State Coordinator, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Sir Philip Ugwueze, the State Coordinator, World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Ada Erinne and Chief of Field Officer, UNICEF, Enugu, Dr. Ibrahim Conte, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration for its untiring commitment towards the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and other public health challenges in the state, urging residents to take advantage of the second phase of the vaccination to get vaccinated and be protected from the dreaded disease.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Jubilation, applause as Gov. Ugwuanyi approves 60 percent CONHESS for health workers amid economic hardship

Health professionals and workers in #Enugu State under the auspices of Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), yesterday went wild with jubilation as #Governor Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi announced an upward increase of their Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) from 41 percent to 60 percent, effective from 2021, in spite of the nation’s economic, security and public health challenges.

Gov. Ugwuanyi made the announcement when he addressed a delegation from JOHESU comprising members of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) and Medical and Health Workers Sector Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), at the Government House, Enugu.

Members of JOHESU were at the Government House, Enugu, on a Thank-you visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi for his benevolence and unflinching commitment to the welfare of health workers in the state.

Presenting their address, the State Chairman of JOHESU, Comrade Ezekiel Omeh, told Gov. Ugwuanyi that “we are very grateful to the Almighty God who has chosen you, Your Excellency, to actualize the implementation of Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for the health professionals and workers in Enugu State”.

Comrade Omeh disclosed that “CONHESS is a dream that has eluded us for the past 11 years but made real by you (Ugwuanyi) in the month of May 2021”, adding: “We thank you and salute your political wisdom to be used as a vessel to actualize God’s will. We appreciate your kind heart and show of love”.

Speaking further the JOHESU Chairman said: “Your Excellency, we are happy that today, you have placed us at par with our peers and contemporaries in the health industry who have been enjoying the CONHESS which is the appropriate Salary Scale operational in the Country since 2010.

“We are aware that in the previous times before your coming in as Governor, the Economy was good enough to implement CONHESS for us but our agitations for it then resulted in giving us more pains than relief.

“To assuage the situation, Your Excellency (Ugwuanyi) approved 10 percent CONHESS in 2018 and in 2021, you approved additional 31 percent making a total of 41 percent CONHESS.

“You also gave us COVID-19 allowance that lasted for upward of one year when other states, including Federal Government, had withdrawn the payment.

“We also appreciate your aggressive investment in the health sector in Enugu State. To mention a few, we are impressed and grateful for the transformation of Poly Clinic Asata to General Hospital, Uwani Health Centre to a General Hospital, renovation and reconstruction of Udi General Hospital, Awgu General Hospital and School of Midwifery, Awgu, reconstruction and renovation of Nsukka General Hospital, Enugu-Ezike General Hospital, the phenomenal progress in construction of permanent site of ESUT Teaching Hospital at Igbo-Eno and building of new General Hospitals in different Local Governments in the state that are ready for commissioning.

“These and other people-oriented projects are simultaneously going on in the state, all for the betterment of the health and welfare of the citizens despite the escalating harsh economic conditions and social unrest in the country.

“You have demonstrated how democratic government can be run with full participation of the citizenry, including workers. Hence our ability to get CONHESS approved and implemented Minimum Wage and its adjustment, COVID-19 allowance, 13th Month Salary all through dialogue and your show of understanding, transparency and prioritization of the welfare of workers and citizens.

“We appreciate your responsiveness to the yearnings of the people especially workers. Your disposition to govern Enugu State with the fear of God and Rule of Law has turned the state to be the most relatively peaceful state in the country and South East in particular.

In their remarks, the State Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Comrade Virginus Nwobodo and Comrade Benneth Asogwa respectively, endorsed the address by the leadership of JOHESU, stressing that the workers of Enugu State deeply appreciate all that Gov. Ugwuanyi is doing for the people of the state "in this time of scarcity and economic meltdown".

They added that it was only during the administration of Gov. Ugwuanyi that the workers of Enugu State visit the Government House without carrying placards in protest, saying that “we are in Government House today to register our appreciation”.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

*We are amazed at governor’s proactiveness, concern - Undergraduates


The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has safely evacuated 135 indigenes of the state who are students of University of Jos (UNIJOS) from the school to their respective homes and destinations following the recent crisis that erupted in Jos, Plateau State capital. 


A statement by the Special Adviser to Gov. Ugwuanyi on Students Affairs, Hon. Chidi Ilogebe, disclosed that 37 evacuated students returned safely to Enugu yesterday, 28 were conveyed to Abuja to join their loved ones while others were taken to their various homes within Plateau and surrounding areas based on their requests, amid tight security.


Gov. Ugwuanyi, in the wake of the Jos crisis, had directed his Special Assistant on Students Affairs, Hon. Ilogebe, to take immediate necessary steps to ensure that Enugu students in UNIJOS were evacuated from the school to their various states of residence for safety.


Describing Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a welfarist and proactive leader”, Hon. Ilogede stated that he led a delegation to receive students from UNIJOS who returned to Enugu at about 10pm, yesterday.


Reacting, one of the UNIJOS students who returned to Enugu State, Anthony Chinedu Onah, a 200 level student of History and International Studies, expressed gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for his proactiveness, concern and commitment to the welfare, safety and security of indigenes of the state irrespective of where they reside. 


Onah revealed that the proactive action taken by Gov. Ugwuanyi spurred other Governors from the South East to send rescue teams to evacuate their people from UNIJOS.


"We say a big thank you to our Governor (Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi) and his SA (on Students Affairs) for their support and immediate action which didn’t just help in evacuating us but it spurred some other states to evacuate their students too. The Association of Enugu State Students in UNIJOS is proud of you (Ugwuanyi) for the fatherly role you played", he said. 


Also speaking, Olivia Nebeokike, a 300 level student of Marketing, pointed out that she was dumbfounded at the governor’s gesture, stressing that they couldn’t believe that their state government could come looking for them at the time they were in distress.


According to her, “we are amazed and couldn’t believe that the Governor could come for us in far away Plateau state. Even the indigenes couldn’t believe it when we told them that our state government is coming for us”. 


On his part, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the UNIJOS Students Union Government (SUG) Ebenezer Iloadinma, an indigene Enugu State, on behalf of the beneficiaries, equally thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his humanitarian gesture, saying: “We want to say a very big thank you to the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, for making provision for these vehicles to evacuate us from Jos”.


He went further to thank Gov. Ugwuanyi’s SA on Students Affairs, Hon. Iloegebe, for facilitating the move, maintaining that they deeply appreciate the governor’s efforts as well as his good works in Enugu State.


#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Osinbajo, Ugwuanyi, Anglican Primate felicitate with Catholic Bishops as they meet in Enugu

*Clerics hail governor’s strides

Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State were among the dignitaries who graced the Opening Mass of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), held at Holy Ghost Cathedral, Ogui, Enugu, on Sunday.

Prof. Osinbajo, who was ably represented at the event by Gov. Ugwuanyi, extended his warm felicitations to the Catholic Bishops.

Conveying Prof. Osinbajo’s message, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who also extended the reverential greetings of the government and good people of Enugu State to the Papal Nuncio, Antonio Guido Filipazzi, all the Cardinals, Archbishops and Bishops, disclosed: “Our Vice President, an esteemed and urbane Statesman, is widely acknowledged for his manifest practice of the Christian Faith and has requested that I convey his best wishes for a very memorable Second Plenary Meeting of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria”.

The governor, who called for a minute silence in honour of the wife of late Dr. Michael I. Okpara, the former Premier of Eastern Region, Mrs. Adamma Okpara, who died in the early hours of Sunday, pointed out that his administration, at inception, committed Enugu State to the Hands of God, adding that “we have continued to seek His Hands in all we do”.

While appreciating the Bishops for choosing Enugu State for the spiritually auspicious event, Gov. Ugwuanyi thanked “the Catholic Church and the entire members of the Body of Christ in the State and beyond for their unceasing prayers, wise counsel, support and solidarity all these years”.

He assured them that his administration will continue to serve the people of the state with the fear of God, expressing optimism that the religious event will herald blessings for the government and people of Enugu State.

Also in his goodwill message, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, who was represented by Most Rev. Buba Ali Lamido, asked “the Catholic Church to count on us as we fight the good fight” for the salvation of mankind, stressing that God will hear the message of the Church as a result of the Plenary Meeting.

At the beginning of the Mass, the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubueze offered prayer for Gov. Ugwuanyi that God will continue to give him the strength to govern the people of Enugu State.

In his remarks, the representative of the Pope in Nigeria, Most Rev. Filipazzi, applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for always cooperating with the Church in its work of evangelism.

In his vote of thanks, on behalf of the Bishops, the Bishop of Umuahia Diocese and Apostolic Administrator of Ahiara Diocese, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, expressed gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for representing the Vice President and conveying his goodwill message to them.

The Bishop equally commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his presence at the occasion, goodwill message and hospitality, saying: “We have been privileged to have enjoyed since we arrived the Coal City. His (Ugwuanyi) developmental strides in Enugu State since he assumed office as the Governor of Enugu State are very impressive; please keep it up”.

In his address, the Chairman of the Opening Session of the Conference, Chief John Nnia Nwodo, narrated the various challenges being faced by the country and offered advice on what the Church can do to effectively engage in rebuilding Nigeria.

Dignitaries at the event include Francis Cardinal Arinze; the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke; the host Bishop, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga; the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi; the Chief Judge of Enugu State, Hon. Justice Priscilla Ngozi Emehelu; Senator Ike Ekweremadu; Senator Sir Victor Umeh and his wife, Prisca; Hon. Prince Cornelius Nnaji; and Hon. Dennis Amadi.

Others include former Minister of Aviation, Amb. Mrs. Fidelia Njeze; Secretary to the Enugu State Government and Director-General, South East Governors Forum, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya; the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Enugu, Prof. Malachy Okwueze and other members of the State Executive Council (EXCO); Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, Office of the Vice President, Hon. Barr. Nkechi Chukwueke; the Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRH Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu; former Federal Permanent Secretary, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa; the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Odengene Airshuttle Services, Chief Evarest Nnaji; and the Chaplain, Enugu State Government, Rev. Fr. Chinedu Ozoude, etc.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Gov. Ugwuanyi intervenes on Amagunze/Amechi Idodo/Oruku bridge; flags off privately funded 5.4km road

#Governor Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi of #Enugu State has announced that his administration will intervene on the Agu Eduma Aniyi bridge across the river linking Amagunze-Amechi Idodo-Oruku, in Nkanu East Local Government Area of the state, which was recently ravaged by flood.

Gov. Ugwuanyi gave the hint, at Amagunze, on Thursday, when he flagged off the construction of 5.4-Kilometre Amagunze asphalt road, being solely funded by an illustrious son of Ishienu Amagunze Community in Nkanu East LGA, Chief Evarest Nnaji, an outstanding entrepreneur, popularly known as "Odengene".

Earlier in his welcome address at the event, the Chairman of Nkanu East LGA, Hon. Engr. Abel Uchenna Nwobodo, disclosed that Gov. Ugwuanyi upon receiving reports about the wrecked bridge, immediately dispatched him and a team of engineers to the site to ascertain the true situation for necessary action.

Engr. Nwobodo pointed out that the governor had made several interventions in the council area such as the rehabilitation of the bad portion of Nkerefi road, the Amechi Idodo road, and the Amagunze LGA Secretariat road.

Other interventions, according to Nwobodo, were the 40-meter concrete bridge along Ugbawka-Nara road and the 40-meter concrete bridge along Nara-Nkerefi-Ebonyi State road.

The Council Chairman thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his administration’s peace and grassroots development initiatives, stressing that "it is because of your good works that Odengene (Everest Nnaji) agreed to do this road".

Flagging off the road, amid jubilation, Gov. Ugwuanyi said that "this wonderful project is deserving of our commendation and prayers for its successful completion", adding that his administration is fully committed to identifying with such projects, from flag-off to inauguration.

The governor, who recalled that he inaugurated an asphalt concrete road that was financed by another illustrious son of the council area, a few years ago, enjoined "all well-to-do and public-spirited individuals to support the delivery of public goods to Ndi Enugu".

"Chief Nnaji, I laud you for this uncommon feat and pray that the Almighty, most merciful and most loving God gives you the enablement to complete this project.

"I further pray that God's abiding grace replenishes your finances many folds, in keeping with His promise in 2 Corinthians chapter 9 verse 10 and I quote: 'Now may he who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness'.

Disclosing his motive, Chief Nnaji, who described Ugwuanyi as a peace loving and performance-oriented governor, said: "I am spurred to fix this road to support what you are doing in the rural areas".

He maintained that the rural development policy of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration is unprecedented, stressing that "there is no state in Nigeria with the size of financial strength of Enugu State that is doing what you (Ugwuanyi) are doing today.

According to him, "we have a peaceful state because of your kind of leadership.

“This is the only person who if you battle with him, he will defeat you, defeat you in the election, defeat you in the court, defeat you everywhere, and then he will still bring you back and stand you on your feet and say brother let’s move on. This is the only one.

"Enugu is a state you will sleep with your two eyes closed. Others will go to their states and rush back to Enugu because of the existing peace in our state.

"I am emboldened by what you are doing in the rural communities and I am doing the project to encourage you".

In their separate remarks, the Commissioner for Gender Affairs and Social Development, Rt. Hon. Princess Peace Nnaji, and President General of Isienu Amagunze, Nkanu East LGA, Hon. Okey J.S. Nwatu, expressed gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for his presence at the event and various time-honoured interventions of his administration in the council area.

They equally applauded Chief Nnaji for embarking on the project in support of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s rural development efforts, as well as his other remarkable contributions towards the growth and development of Amagunze in particular and Nkanu East LGA in general.

Other dignitaries at the event include a former Member of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Anayo Edeh, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Engr. Mike Ogbuekwe, his Information counterpart, Barr. Steve Oruruo, the Chairman of Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB), Chief Ikeje Asogwa, the Chairman, Governing Council of Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Chief Mrs. Ifeoma Nwobodo, the Chairman, STVSMB, Dr. Gabriel Ajah, the Chief Executive Officer of Ferotex Construction Company Limited, Chief Festus Onu, Dr. Tony Okam, and the traditional rulers from the council area, etc.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Disassociates itself from trending news report

…Pledges continued support for security agencies

The Enugu State Government has distanced itself from the news report trending on the social media regarding one Tochukwu Okeke purported to be a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Security, stating categorically, for the avoidance of doubt, that the state government has not designated any person, whosoever, as either Special Adviser, Senior Special Assistant or Special Assistant to the Governor on Security.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, the state government said it is very concerned about the rising security challenges faced by the country and appreciates the untiring efforts of the various security agencies in tackling acts of criminality.

Aroh maintained that “the state government will continue to support the various security agencies in this arduous task of restoring security and protecting the lives and property of the people of Enugu State within the ambit of the extant laws”.

The statement encouraged the people of Enugu State to continue to support the various security agencies in the state in different ways, “including the provision of useful information on the activities of criminal elements, as the state government will handsomely reward any person who provides useful information on the activities of these criminal elements terrorizing our society and interfering with the much-treasured peace in Enugu State”.

Full text of the statement reads:

“The attention of the Enugu State Government has been drawn to the trending news story on social media, regarding one Tochukwu Okeke purported to be a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on security for the avoidance of doubt, we wish to state categorically that the state government has not designated any person, whosoever, as either Special Adviser, Senior Special Assistant or Special Assistant to the Governor on security.

“The State Government is also very concerned about the rising security challenges faced by our dear nation, and the untiring efforts of our various Security Agencies in tackling these acts of criminality.

“The State Government will continue to support the various Security Agencies in this arduous task of restoring security and protecting the lives and property of the people of Enugu State within the ambit of the extant laws.

“In view of the above, the good people of Enugu State are encouraged to continue to support the various Security Agencies in the State, including the provision of useful information on the activities of criminal elements, as the State Government will handsomely reward any person who provides useful information on the activities of these criminal elements terrorizing our society and interfering with the much-treasured peace in Enugu State”.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has expressed delight at the many ways the administration of #Governor Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi of #Enugu State is promoting the spirit of 'one Nigeria' through the display of cultural identities of different ethnic groups in the country.

The Interior Minister who spoke during a Gala Night organized in his honour by Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu, said he was highly impressed that the cultural display, decorations and attires (cowry, etc.) worn by some Enugu dignitaries such as the immediate past President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, at the event, depicted the spirit of love and one Nigeria, stressing that such demonstrations are what the country needs to make steady progress.

Aregbesola was in Enugu for the inauguration of the new office of Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Enugu State Command, located at Kilometre 5, Enugu-Abakiliki Expressway, Emene, Enugu.

Welcoming the Minister and his entourage, including the Comptroller-General of NIS, Muhammad Babandede, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that he was glad that the office was finally inaugurated "despite all the challenges the Command encountered during the preparation for this event".

The governor pointed out that the NIS office complex in Enugu was torched by arsonists during the nationwide #EndSARS protests, two days to its scheduled inauguration.

Gov. Ugwuanyi stated that his administration, acting on the recommendation of the state's Administrative Inquiry into the hijack of the #EndSARS protests by miscreants, gave financial support to facilitate the Command's relocation to the new office.

"I therefore congratulate you on today's successful commissioning of the new office of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Enugu State Command, in spite of the challenges.

"Honourable Minister, the Government and good people of Enugu State extend their compliments to you, on the far-reaching reforms that your leadership has engendered in the Federal Government Agencies under your watch.

"Nigerian Immigration Service, one of the Paramilitary Services under the superintendence of the Ministry of Interior, has always availed the state quality services and advisories on migration trends especially those that have implication for the State's Internal Security, through the Enugu State Command of the Service. Enugu State Government is indeed pleased with this cooperation and synergy.

"Finally, it is my profound honour and great privilege to welcome you to the Coal City State and I invite you to enjoy its serene ambience and hospitable people while wishing you a memorable stay," the governor said in an address at the event.

Other Enugu dignitaries at the event include the Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator (Dr.) Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo; State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani; former Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo; former Minister of Aviation, Amb. Mrs. Fidelia Njeze, President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State Chapter, Prof. Fred Eze and Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu, who presented traditional gift items to the Interior Minister, Aregbesola and the Comptroller-General, NIS, Babandede.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

#Governor Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi of #Enugu State, on Wednesday, inaugurated the newly reconstituted Enugu State Judicial Service Commission, after swearing in Barr. Ben Chukwuemeka Ezeugwu, Mr. Ifeanyi Emma Jonathan-Ogbu and Mr. Emmanuel James Chiezue Ugwu, as members.

Inaugurating the State Judicial Service Commission, at the EXCO Chamber, Government House, Enugu, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that the exercise was pursuant to the relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) as well as the Enugu State Judicial Service Commission Law Cap. 60, Revised Laws of Enugu State 2004 (as amended), “following the expiration of the tenure of the prevision Commission by effluxion of time”.

The governor stated that the Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Priscilla Ngozi Emehelu, is the Chairman of the Commission while the State Attorney-General, Chief Miletus Eze and the President of the State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice George Chibueze Nnamani, are members by virtue of their positions (ex-officio).

Gov. Ugwuanyi explained that the rest of the members were nominated and subsequently confirmed by the State House of Assembly.

He further stated that the Commission has the mandate “to advise the Governor in nominating persons for appointment as Chief Judge of the State; President of the Customary Court of Appeal of the State; Judges of the High Court of the State; and Judges of the Customary Court of Appeal of the State”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi added that the Commission shall have power “to recommend to the Governor the removal from office of the judicial officers specified in the sub-paragraphs (iii) and (iv) above and the exercise of disciplinary control over such officers.

“And to appoint, dismiss and exercise disciplinary control over the Chief Registrar and Deputy Chief Registrar of the High Court, the Chief Registrar of the Customary Court of Appeal, Magistrates, Chairman and members of Customary Courts, and all other members of the staff of the judicial services of the state not otherwise specified in the Constitution, and all staff of the Judicial Service Commission”.

Describing the Commission as “both the soul and standard-bearer of the State Judicial system, the governor, who pointed out that his administration has made unprecedented investment in the infrastructure and human resource of the State Judiciary with a view to enhancing its performance, told the chairman and members that “you are eminently qualified for the job in hand”.

He therefore congratulated them and expressed hope that they will strive to sustain and possibly improve on the stellar performance of the last Commission.

Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in members, Barr. Ezeugwu thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for finding them worthy of the appointment and pledged that “we will do our best and place the Judiciary in the position expected of it and provided for it in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

The administration of #Governor Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi of #Enugu State, through the state’s Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (#SMEs) Centre, is doing a lot in empowering the youth of the state to harness and develop their talents and innovative skills in various endeavours for self-reliance and economic emancipation.

The Enugu SMEs Centre, in partnership with AutoEase Limited, is engaging 400 youths in Auto-revamp Innovation Training Programme (AITP), to learn life-long skills in the automobile industry. These skills include how to repair damaged vehicles and build new cars from older models, among others.

According to the Special Adviser to the Governor SMEs Development and Director-General, Enugu SMEs Centre, Hon. Arinze Chilo-Offiah, the 1st batch of the beneficiaries, who participated in the eight-month-long Auto-revamp Innovation Training Programme (AITP), have graduated and received their certificates.

Hon. Chilo-Offiah disclosed that the 2nd and 3rd batches of the beneficiaries are undergoing training presently while application for participation in the 4th batch is ongoing via: www.enugusmeautojobs.com .

Auto Jobs - Enugu SME

The Special Adviser pointed out that the graduation ceremony of the 1st batch, which featured an opening remark by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AutoEase Limited, Mrs. Oby Okeke and words of admonition and encouragement from himself, was a huge success.

He revealed that the event also featured practical demonstration of the three stages of Auto-ramping by the 1st batch graduands, explaining that “each team was given damaged car bonnets and asked to revamp them under forty-five (45) minutes and the best team received a cash prize from AutoEase Limited.

“Just like the newly certified auto-experts, learning auto-repair skills and how to build new cars from old models is a hefty profitable investment in your life, and will set you up to work in big automobile companies like Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Toyota, Honda and more”, the Special Adviser said.

Stressing Gov. Ugwuanyi’s sustained commitment to human capital development programmes for the empowerment of youths of Enugu State, Hon. Chilo-Offiah reiterated that the SMEs Centre remains steadfast in ensuring that the governor’s vision is actualized in its fullness.

The peace-loving #Governor of #Enugu State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi, arrives Akwa Ibom State Government Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja, venue of the emergency meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (#PDP) Governors' Forum.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Chairman of Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, ECTDA, Dr. Josef Onoh has asked Enugu residents to ignore the Monday sit-at home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and go about their businesses, stating that the IPOB order has no constituted power backing.

Onoh disclosed that his agency in conjunction with the three municipal councils and other local government areas in the state have coordinated strength with the security agencies to ensure that trouble makers will be dealt with in the state.

Onoh said the agency’s attention was drawn to some apprehension in the capital city, suggesting that there will be no movement on Monday August 9 and on subsequent Mondays.

The agency however noted that there was no constituted authority that declared any Monday as a resting or work-free day and assured residents in the state capital that there will be no molestation of anybody conducting genuine business in the state except such a person was a miscreant.

Onoh asked all business operators within the Capital territory to ignore the propaganda of a sit-at-home order as the state government had put machinery in place to ensure that lives and properties were secured.

“This is a familiar propaganda that had enthroned hardship on the citizenry and which by now wisdom is supposed to be prevailing upon rather than emotion. We therefore urge everyone to go about their legitimate businesses as all the security agencies in the state are on top of the situation.

“People sitting at the comfort of their luxuries outside and within Nigeria should not mislead other people eking out their own living in their own ways. We in the ECTDA assure residents of peace and sanity in Enugu and this administration will not have mercy for anybody that wants to foment trouble in the city.

“ECTDA together with the chairmen of the three municipal councils have made adequate arrangements to ensure that no person conducting his or her genuine business will be molested by any miscreant,” Onoh stated.

He noted that the security apparatus in the state had exhibited maximum strength even against the unknown gunmen which recently proved the integrity of the agencies in the state as well as that of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in protecting lives and properties in the state.

2023: It's Enugu East Senatorial District's turn to produce your successor - Enugu West tells Gov. Ugwuanyi

The people of Enugu West Senatorial District have declared that it is the turn of Enugu East Senatorial District of the state to produce the next governor of Enugu State in 2023, based on the existing rotational arrangement, which was reaffirmed by the leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, during the State Caucus meeting of the Party in 2013.

The people of Enugu West Senatorial District took the decision during the well-attended solidarity rally tagged: "Ife-Emelumma Enugu West Unity Rally for Gburugburu", held at Awgu Local Government Area Secretariat, on Saturday.

Speaking at the rally which was graced by #Governor Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi of #Enugu State, his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani, present and former members of the National and State Assemblies, Chairmen of Aninri, Awgu, Ezeagu, Oji-River and Udi Local Government Areas, Traditional Rulers, the Clergy, among others, the Convener and Chairman of the Central Organising Committee of the rally, Senator Ben Collins Ndu, told Gov. Ugwuanyi that the people of Enugu West Senatorial District have assembled to speak with one voice that the zoning of the governorship seat of the state favours Enugu East Senatorial District.

Senator Ndu who disclosed that the people of Enugu West Senatorial District are 100 percent in support of Gov. Ugwuanyi and his decisions in respect of his successor in 2023, maintained that they firmly stand by the decision of the State Caucus of the PDP in 2013, that the governorship position of Enugu State should rotate to Enugu East Senatorial District after the expiration of the turn of Enugu North Senatorial District presently occupied by the governor.

The Convener revealed that he seconded the motion moved by Chief Hon. Dubem Onyia, at the said PDP Caucus meeting of July 7, 2013, that the governorship position of the state should rotate to Enugu North Senatorial District in 2015 with an understanding that it should rotate to Enugu East Senatorial District in 2023, after the turn of Enugu North Senatorial District.

Senator Ndu pointed out that the PDP meeting of 2013 was attended by the party leaders such as the then State Chairman of the PDP, Chief Engr. Vita Abba, then Governor of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime (from Enugu West Senatorial District), then Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, then Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Eugene Odo, other members of the National and State Assemblies who were members of the Caucus.

He added it was based on the PDP decision on zoning of the governorship position that Rt. Hon. Ugwuanyi from Enugu North Senatorial District emerged the governorship candidate of the party and thereafter the Governor of Enugu State in 2015.

"What we are saying in Enugu West Senatorial District is that in Enugu State, governorship position rotates among the three senatorial districts. You (Ugwuanyi) are a beneficiary of the motion I seconded that the governorship seat should rotate to Enugu North Senatorial District. The motion was amended by Dr. Charles Egumgbe that after Enugu North Senatorial District, it would be the turn of Enugu East Senatorial District. The amendment was adopted by the Caucus at that meeting", Senator Ndu said while displaying the minutes of the meeting.

The Chairman of the Organising Committee therefore reassured Gov. Ugwuanyi that "the entire people of Enugu West Senatorial District are with you", stressing: "Wherever you go, we go with you...Odikwagi N' aka".

In their goodwill messages, other speakers at the unity rally, such as all the members of the State House of Assembly in Enugu West Senatorial District, Chairmen of the five LGAs in the zone, members of the State Executive Council (EXCO), the PDP LG Chairmen, the Traditional Rulers, the youth, former House of Representatives member, Rt. Hon. Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi, former Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, former Minister of Aviation, Amb. Mrs. Fidelia Njeze, Chief Anayo Onwuegbu, among others, endorsed the pronouncement made by the Convener, reiterating that it is the turn of Enugu East Senatorial District to produce Gov. Ugwuanyi’s successor in 2023.

Addressing the mammoth crowd at the rally, Gov. Ugwuanyi thanked the people of Enugu West Senatorial District for their unwavering confidence in his political leadership and reaffirmed the unflinching commitment of his administration to act in their best interest, as always.

"It is significant that the people of Enugu West Senatorial District have willfully communicated their position without goading. I, therefore, assure you that we shall strive to sustain whatever has kept our state peaceful, united and on the path of development. In doing so, we shall be consultative, just and equitable.

“The theme of today’s rally (Ife Emelu Mma) seemed musical to me when I got the invitation, but having listened to all the speeches, I now understand that Ife Emelu Mma mantra, is both a statement of fact and a philosophy; a philosophy that situates and inspires a just and equitable dispensation of political leadership in our polity.

“In its literal sense, it is ‘ofo’; an innovation of the divine spirit to bear witness to our acts of justice and equity.

“Your message is therefore clear. It is understood in all ramifications. May God grant your prayers and heart’s desire”, the governor said.

Rt. Hon. Ofor Chukwuegbo, Hon. Prince Cornelius Nnaji, Senator Hyde Onuaguluchi, Rt. Hon. U.S.A Igwesi, Sir. Chinyeaka Ohaa, and Dr. Tony Okam, were among the dignitaries who graced the occasion