After inaugurating the Police Area Command Headquarters, Orba, in Udenu Local Government Area, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, inspected the ongoing massive construction of a Specialist Hospital for the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital, Igbo-Eno, in Enugu North Senatorial District.
The governor also inspected the site clearing for the construction of 2 nos. 12-classroom faculty buildings, 2 nos. 10-classroom faculty buildings and 2 nos. 8-classroom faculty buildings, for the ESUT College of Medicine, in Igbo-Eno, adjacent to the Specialist Hospital, as well as the ongoing construction of industrial water borehole projects.
It would be recalled that the first phase of a Tertiary Hospital, Igbo-Eno, has been completed to serve as one of the facilities for the ESUT College of Medicine, which has been relocated to Nsukka.
The attention of Chain Reactions Nigeria, The Temple Management and TBWA Africa have been drawn to an unfortunate conversation in some sections of the online media regarding the recently unveiled logo for the Nigerian Diamond Jubilee Celebration (Nigeria at 60) by President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR).
Few hours after the unveiling of the Nigeria at 60 anniversary Logo, myriads of reviews poured in from different stakeholders across the country as expected. As envisaged, the views expressed are symbolic of our diversity as a nation. In fact, it captures what we are celebrating. The theme of the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, TOGETHER, is all about how we have stayed together as a people despite our diversity.
This isn’t surprising as major brands and government initiatives have undergone barrage of condemnations and commendations in times past. Are we surprised? No.
It is commendable that the Nigerian government has done the right thing by engaging the services of Nigerian professionals to develop the thematic direction, campaign strategy and the logo for the Diamond Jubilee celebration pro bono. In the past, you would have heard that the Nigerian government engaged the services of some foreign agencies for some nerve-cracking and ridiculous sum of money. PLAGIARISM:
The primary allegation of plagiarism on the unveiled logo deserves a quick dissection. To Plagiarise, according to Oxford Language Dictionary, is to take someone else’s work or ideas and pass them off as one’s own.
Interestingly, the emptiness of this narrative lies in the fact that peddlers perhaps do not understand the meaning or they feigned ignorance so as to drive their usual hatred for the Nigerian governement. To meet the qualified meaning of this definition, it means the Nigerian professionals who designed the campaign picked another logo that is exactly like this or similar to this and delivered it to the Federal government. Have they shown Nigerians the logo that looks exactly like the Nigeria @ 60 logo from another jurisdiction? No. Instead of saying that the diamond looks similar to the one they have found on the internet, they have disingenuously alleged that Nigeria plagiarised her 60th Anniversary logo. What a convenient narrative but a disservice to our fatherland.
A quick check on the internet shows that there are thousands of diamonds with crystals that look alike. The images on the Internet are there in any way for creative usage and purposes. Some are backed by rights and paid for while others are free. Let us even assume without conceding that the Nigerian creative professionals who created this design were desperately looking for a logo, where would they have gone? The internet or the mines? Also, a diamond, being a precious stone, cannot be expected to be found anywhere. If a religious institution had used the Diamond as a logo element, will it still pass off as plagiarism?
OUTRAGEOUS COSTING: Without an announced budget or costing being declared from the Presidency, some social media commentators have hastily concluded that the logo was designed with an outrageous amount.
Should we put the perpetrators on a national medium to justify this claim with verifiable evidences, we will be offered with silence and mischief. The Nigeria at 60 logo was designed pro-bono out of sheer zeal and patriotism for Nigeria by a consortium of Nigerian marketing communications and talent management companies. This controversy is a great disservice to these Nigerian professionals who have invested their time into giving Nigeria a beautiful identity in commemoration of her 60th anniversary.
For now, we appeal to millions of good-spirited Nigerians, this celebration is ours. It is a celebration of the Nigerian people. Not even the present feeble wind will dampen our passion for our beloved country.
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has expressed the immense gratitude of his administration to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Mohammed Adamu Abubakar, for approving the permanent site of the Police Area Command Headquarters, Orba, in Udenu Local Government Area of the state, to enhance the security of the area and its jurisdiction.
Speaking when he inaugurated the Police Area Command Headquarters, Orba, on Thursday, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who disclosed that his administration diligently funded the permanent site project, to its present state, acknowledged the former Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, now Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 13, AIG Danmallam Mohammed, “for the traction he gave to this project”.
The governor also appreciated the present State Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmad Abdurrahman, “for all his support and encouragement for the project”.
Gov. Ugwuanyi explained that the Police Area Command, Orba was created out of Nsukka Police Area Command on December 5, 2017, by the then Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim Idris, to cater for the policing needs of Igbo-Eze North, Udenu, Isi-Uzo, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Areas, as well as Nsukka East Development Centre, which is part of Nsukka LGA.
He stated that the increasing number of Police Officers and Men of the Command made it imperative for the provision of adequate permanent site for the Police Area Command, Orba, adding that, consequently, the great people of Ohom Orba donated about three hectares of land, hitherto given to the former Police Mounted Troops Command in the immediate post-civil war period, for the all-important project.
Gov. Ugwuanyi, who expressed delight at the actualization of the permanent site of the Police Area Command Headquarters in Orba, expressed optimism that the feat will change the security narrative within its area of jurisdiction.
While also commending the Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Edwin Ogbeghagha, for his pioneering role as the first Area Commander, the governor also appreciated “the great visionary people of Ohom Orba for willingly donating their valued land for the development of Police Area Command Headquarters, Orba, without seeking compensation”.
According to the governor, “My gratitude also goes to the President General, Orba-Udu General Assembly, Mr. Charles Mba, Permanent Secretary, Enugu State Local Government Service Commission and his entire Executive Committee members for coordinating and mobilizing local support for this project”.
In his brief remark, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Abdurrahman, who described Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a pillar of all pillars, an exceptional leader and a security-friendly governor”, applauded his sound vision for Enugu State and his firm commitment to security of lives and property.
The CP therefore prayed for Gov. Ugwuanyi’s success in his responsibilities, disclosing that the governor has accepted to bring more infrastructures in the new Police Area Command, for enhanced efficient service delivery.
Other speakers at the event, such as the Chairman of Udenu LGA, Hon. Solomon Onah, the Area Commander, ACP Ogbeghagha, and the President General, Orba-Udu General Assembly, Mr. Mba, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for providing the needed support to all security agencies in the state, stressing that his administration’s contributions towards the successful realization of the new Police Area Command, Orba, aimed at enhancing the security architecture of its area of jurisdiction and beyond, were commendable.
Air Peace, Ibom Air, commence daily flights to Enugu from Lagos and Abuja, as Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, represented by his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, receives and inaugurates Ibom Air’s operations in the state, at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on Monday.
*Picture four: Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo (2nd right), State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji (left), his information counterpart, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh (middle), the Enugu Airport Manager, Mrs. Cecilia Oguama (right), and the Chief Operating Officer, Ibom Air, George E. Uriesi, during the airport event.
Nigerian law students, under the aegis of Law Students’ Association of Nigeria (LAWSAN) will during their national convention scheduled for Friday, September 11, 2020, at Abuja, honour Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, with “The Governor of the Year” award.
In a letter jointly signed by the National President and Assistant Secretary General of LAWSAN, Emmanuel Eze Nwobodo and Nafisa Abdullahi, respectively, the law students disclosed that the award, which they said was unanimously endorsed, is in recognition of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s track-record and contributions to Nigerian Legal Education in particular and leadership in general.
They added that the recognition is “in view of your standing as a deserving contributor to that which concerns youths, coupled with your inspirational personality”.
According to them, “we have unanimously concluded that you (Ugwuanyi) indeed represent all that every student, and of course this Association labours to achieve and we graciously seek to have you in attendance as we have chosen you to be the distinguished awardee as the Governor of the Year.
“Your Excellency, it is our culture to meritoriously honour Distinguished Governors who have contributed to legal education and as well assisted in raising the hands and heads of students at challenging points in their life and this year is not an exception.
“In consideration, we are confronted with a long list of Governors. However, we have strategically followed your track-record and as well conducted a strict due diligence on your contributions to Nigerian Legal Education and leadership generally.
“Consequent upon which you have emerged our credible choice as a distinguished guest and awardee at the event of the forthcoming National LAWSAN Convention billed to hold on the 11th September, 2020, at the Zeus Paradise Hotel, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja”
The law students who noted that Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Ababakar Malami are past awardees, appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for the Bursary allowance, his administration recently granted to 246 students of the state at the Nigeria Law School, among other remarkable contributions to the Legal Profession as well as Nigerian Legal Education “through your interests in students’ activities”.
Enugu SME Centre records milestones as Hackathon Series discovers marketable ideas, projects
Emelike Obinna
The Enugu SME Center has recorded a remarkable milestone with its ongoing Hackathon Series, a quarterly series in partnership with the private sector to bring the ideas of the teeming youth of Enugu State to the limelight.
So far, the healthy contest has brought together the best innovative minds with disruptive ideas and solutions to address the changes to ways of life and business as a result of Covid-19 and the institutional change it has created in the global ecosystem.
In its first edition, the quarterly series is targeted as both tech-inclined and non tech-inclined creative thinkers, to develop sustainable platforms, products and ventures to rebuild, recreate, and reinvent the future of business and innovation within Enugu State.
With focus on projects themes around agriculture, education, healthcare, small business tools and other use cases and services, the Hackathon Series has brought together over 300 teams in the first quarter, who tendered their ideas for consideration and consequent financial support.
According to the Enugu SME Centre, the creator and organiser of the Hackathon Series, the judging criteria were built on the basis of progress, concept, and feasibility, which the top 10 ideas met.
Riding on their success so far, the top 10 marketable ideas would further engage in another round of contest for the final stage of the challenge on September 11, 2020 where Top 3 ideas with proven marketable, implementable concepts and funding-worth would be selected.
Moreover, the Top 3 ideas would receive cash prizes, with the winner getting a US$3,500 business support grant from the Enugu SME Center that would include; mentorship, business advisory, product development, technical support, media publicity, digital marketing support, and financial advisory services.
Speaking on the selection of the ideas, Enugu SME Centre, the organisers of the series, noted that the Hackathon was created to be a challenge, and not a competition of best ideas, and hence a contest of the best ‘marketable’ ideas.
However, the Hackathon Series is in line with the developmental and youth empowerment vision of Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, governor of Enugu State, who birthed a vision of the state becoming the economic epicenter of South-Eastern Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Governor Ugwuanyi, who is fondly called ‘GburuGburu’ by his people, further stated that the economic epicenter vision of his administration is further boosted by the state’s enviable ranking as 2nd State in Ease of Starting Business and 3rd State in Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria in the 2018 World Bank Ease of Doing Business sub-national ranking, which has made corporates and businesses flocking the state to establish their presence.
As well, Governor Ugwuanyi is desirous of lifting families from poverty by creating many employment opportunities, and also committed to supporting the Hackathon Series because of its avowed ability to harness the untapped potentials of the state’s teeming youth and Enugu people at large.
In furtherance of his commitment to the empowerment of Enugu youths and the people, the governor has relentlessly supported the Enugu SME Center, the organisers of the Hackathon Series.
Speaking on the rationale for the Hackathon Series, Arinze Chilo-Offiah, Special Adviser on SME Development & Investment Promotion/ Head, Enugu SME Center, noted that with the Covid-19 pandemic changing the way people live their lives and how they conduct business, people need solutions to address the changes, hence bringing innovative minds to offer solutions at the Enugu SME Hackathon Series.
On the expectations, which are being met by the quality projects and ideas harvested so far, Chilo-Offiah explained that, “We are looking for young individuals to come up with ideas, innovation, products or services that can make an impact in the society. We are looking for technology-based ideas, non technology-based ideas, tech founders and non-tech founders”.
The Enugu SME Center is the state developmental finance institution, which acts as a catalyst for job creation and facilitating easier access to finance and resources required by entrepreneurs and investors in the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to achieve sustainable economic development in the state.
The truth remains that Enugu State under the watch of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has witnessed peace and good governance in spite of the economic and public health challenges facing the country.
The people of the state, most especially the leaders of the political, religious and traditional institutions, such as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, have attested to this fact and have continued to express their delight at the unprecedented performance of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in navigating the state through the nation’s economic meltdown to make the top as one of the six economically viable states in Nigeria that can survive without federal allocations, according to the 2019 Annual States Viability Index, that was recently released on July 26, 2020, by Economic Confidential.
Prior to the above rating, Enugu State has been rated as the second most advanced state in Nigeria on the Ease of Doing Business and third on the Ease of Starting Business, by the World Bank Group. Enugu, according to verdict released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), on May 22, 2020, is the 9th best performing state in terms of states’ rank in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the year 2019. The State (Enugu) was listed by BudgIT alongside Lagos and Rivers as the only three states out of the 36 states of the federation that have fulfilled obligations to their workers.
Enugu was earlier listed by Economic Confidential among the seven states that are solvent with impressive over 30 percent Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to fund additional economic activities. It is equally on record that Enugu is the fifth most competitive state in Nigeria, according to the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria and the third most debt sustainable state in Nigeria. Enugu was also rated as the first state in Nigeria to publish its Audited State Final Account for three consecutive years; first in the South East geo-political zone and ninth in the country based on IGR as against Federal Allocation.
The truth remains that Enugu State under the watch of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has witnessed peace and good governance in spite of the economic and public health challenges facing the country.
The people of the state, most especially the leaders of the political, religious and traditional institutions, such as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, have attested to this fact and have continued to express their delight at the unprecedented performance of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in navigating the state through the nation’s economic meltdown to make the top as one of the six economically viable states in Nigeria that can survive without federal allocations, according to the 2019 Annual States Viability Index, that was recently released on July 26, 2020, by Economic Confidential.
Prior to the above rating, Enugu State has been rated as the second most advanced state in Nigeria on the Ease of Doing Business and third on the Ease of Starting Business, by the World Bank Group. Enugu, according to verdict released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), on May 22, 2020, is the 9th best performing state in terms of states’ rank in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the year 2019. The State (Enugu) was listed by BudgIT alongside Lagos and Rivers as the only three states out of the 36 states of the federation that have fulfilled obligations to their workers.
Enugu was earlier listed by Economic Confidential among the seven states that are solvent with impressive over 30 percent Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to fund additional economic activities. It is equally on record that Enugu is the fifth most competitive state in Nigeria, according to the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria and the third most debt sustainable state in Nigeria. Enugu was also rated as the first state in Nigeria to publish its Audited State Final Account for three consecutive years; first in the South East geo-political zone and ninth in the country based on IGR as against Federal Allocation.
Despite all these remarkable landmark feats, a handful of ungrateful and selfish politicians, have deliberately refused to acknowledge them and other salient achievements of the present administration of Gov. Ugwuanyi who in truthfulness to God and fairness to the good people of Enugu State has entrusted Enugu State to the hands of God and delivered democracy dividends to them.
It is hardly contestable that this is the first time in the history of Enugu State, an administration has taken the wellbeing of the ordinary masses, who have hitherto been denied the dividends of democracy, into a high favorable consideration, through its rural development policy and empowerment programmes that have succeeded in improving their living standard and opening up the rural areas for socio-economic growth.
This is evident in the concentration of more massive infrastructural development , mostly road projects across the state covering over 600km, in the rural areas and long-neglected communities by Ugwuanyi‘s administration. This feat was also achieved through simultaneous execution of huge grassroots development projects across the 17 LGAs and the novel N10 million “one community, one project” scheme earmarked for each of the 471 autonomous communities in the state, among others.
On welfare of the ordinary masses, Enugu State under Ugwuanyi’s administration has empowered 3,600 traders with N50,000 each to grow their various businesses under the Enugu State Traders Empowerment Scheme. It also empowered 750 youths in skills acquisition under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) programme; offered scholarship to 680 indigent engineering students of Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo, Ezeagu L.G.A. and the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu; awarded scholarship to 22 post-secondary school indigent students presently studying at Mewar University, India; engaged 1000 youths to clean up the state, under Enugu Clean Team Project, with additional 1000 workers underway. The state government recently granted Bursary allowance to 246 students of the state at the Nigeria Law School.
I am aware that the Ugwuanyi administration in keeping faith with its tax-friendly regime, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, equally granted tax relief and incentives to taxpayers in the state including the ordinary people. This decision, I learnt, was in furtherance of the state government’s efforts in cushioning the effect of the pandemic on residents of the state, especially the ordinary citizens.
Prior to this, it is on record that the Ugwuanyi administration since its inception, in May 2015, waived the payment of Personal Income Tax as well as Market Tax, for all traders in the major markets of the state and has reiterated its resolve to sustain the pro-poor policies till the end of its tenure.
The Enugu State government’s COVID-19 tax relief and incentives approved by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration, as was announced by the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIR) also include the extension of the deadline for the submission of Form A for employees and Annual Returns in accordance with Section 41 (3) and 81 (1)-(3) of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 2011 as amended for companies and institutions operating in Enugu State, and the grant of “a waiver of penalty and interest charged for late remittance of Pay As You Earn (PAYE) deductions from January to December 2020 for all sectors”.
Others are: “A 50% discount on all assessed Capital Gains Tax (CGT) from now till December 2020. A 50% discount on all Personal Income Tax Assessment issued to owners of schools and hotels for Year 2020.
“A 50% discount on all assessed Land Use Charge payment for Year 2020. This discount will expire on 31st of December 2020. A waiver of penalty and interest on Land Use Charge for Years 2018 and 2019 once payment is made before December 2020”.
Besides all these, the Ugwuanyi administration, which has continued to entrust Enugu State to the hands of God is among the first to implement the new Minimum Wage in Nigeria, despite the adverse economic effects of the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. It has remained regular in payment of workers’ salaries on the 23rd of every month and retirees’ pensions before the end of the month, including payment of the 13th month salary to workers as Christmas bonus. The administration also paid 54 percent equity contribution for 100 lucky civil servants who won the 100 units one bedroom apartments at Elim Estate, Enugu, through open lottery, in all efforts to alleviate the sufferings of the people, especially the ordinary masses.
From the foregoing, I am convinced that these verifiable landmark people-oriented achievements of Gov. Ugwuanyi stand him out as a visionary, peaceful, high performing, caring, God-fearing and people-centered leader, who has firmly and religiously entrusted Enugu State to God’s hands.
Let me therefore remind the traducers that Enugu, under the watch of Gov. Ugwuanyi, has been widely adjudged by its leaders and reputable national organizations as one of the most peaceful and impressive states in the country in terms of security, good governance and welfare of the ordinary masses, and no amount of mischief or misconception will change this obvious fact.
…Enugu Leaders Of Thought Pass Vote Of Confidence In Ugwuanyi
Leaders of Thought in Enugu State, comprising traditional rulers, religious and opinion leaders, among others, on Thursday, rose from a closed-door meeting with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and passed a vote of confidence in the governor for the way he has been discharging his responsibilities in the state as the Chief Security Officer.
Addressing newsmen after the meeting, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, said that they took brief from Gov. Ugwuanyi on the recent security developments in the state as well as the actions taken by his administration to arrest the situation and ensure that the state remains safe and peaceful.
Chief Nwodo who disclosed that all those present at the meeting have reaffirmed their conviction to continue to support Gov. Ugwuanyi’s good works in ensuring that the state remains one of the safest in the country, added that the governor informed them that “he has given a directive to all the Local Government Chairmen to rejig our security architecture in consultation with the traditional rulers and Presidents-General of town unions”.
The President-General further disclosed that Gov. Ugwuanyi, who at the meeting, signed the Enugu State Forest Guard Act, 2020, enacted by the State House of Assembly, into Law and directed the council chairmen to ensure the effective operations of the law, also “briefed us about herdsmen activities in some of the local government areas and actions taken in consultations with the security agencies to show them the way out of those areas that these have occurred”
Chief Nwodo revealed that the governor told them how the State Security Council deliberated in details, the recent civil disturbances in the state, and reassured them that “the state government will do everything in its powers to see that whoever was found to have not acted in conformity with the law will be adequately dealt with”.
Justifying the vote of confidence, the President-General of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, said: “In the last few days, an economic review of the state has shown that out of the six most viable states in Nigeria, Enugu State is one of them. The viability of each state was recorded on the basis of their capacity to generate enough internally generated revenue to sustain their recurrent expenditure without dependence on federal allocations.
“If Enugu State government can attract businessmen to come to the state and pay taxes, then Enugu must be investment friendly. To be investment friendly, Enugu must be safe. And this credit goes to our state governor and his team.
“And we felt we should move a vote of confidence and tell him that we are proud of the way he is discharging his responsibilities. And we urged him to continue to be doing what he has been doing.
“On our part, every community leader, every traditional ruler, every President-General of town unions, all schools represented by their heads here have re-enforced; all the bishops, clergymen have re-enforced their conviction that they must continue to support this good work to ensure that our state remains one of the safest states in Nigeria”.
A few weeks from now, the Edo electorate will go to the poll and vote a governor to administer the state for four years. If Osagie Ize-Iyamu wins on September 19, the future of Edo state will become glaring– godfatherism has gained a stand.
Ize-Iyamu, a pastor, is the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), but his candidature is more rooted in a clandestine scheme by a former governor in the state, Adams Oshiomole, to annex the state. Oshiomole was governor for eight years but that seems not enough and has since pursued to hold on to the state through a proxy.
This is easily noticeable in the disagreements that culminated the fallout between him and incumbent governor, Godwin Obaseki, who Oshiomole pushed to office in 2016. And if he could successfully push Ize-Iyamu in September, regardless of whether he was rigged in or not, will be hailed as the triumph of godfatherism.
That would be an unpleasant experience for the people of Edo state, who would have lost their democratic rights to one man– Oshiomole. For the past four years, Edo has seen steady development in most sectors, and more importantly, the relative peace that is prevalent in the state.
But the stride recorded by Obaseki count for little for those poised to imposed a disjointed ideology of godfatherism on Edo state, hence, reversing all the gains achieved in the last four years. If they should get their way, and by whatever means, push Ize-Iyamu to power, the Edo people would have lost, and it will be hard to tell exactly what direction the state goes because it will have fallen on the lap of one man, who will rule by proxy.
Some All Progressives Congress (APC), drossy but pretentious, have tried to rationalize the dangerous signal that godfatherism posed in a democracy. Democracy, anywhere, is about the people, and should at all times, determine who lead them without influence. That is the principle Oshiomole will try to alter on September 19 but the Edo electorate can make a significant statement.
Though it would not be easy, railing back at an attempt to hijack them of their democratic rights would be their best shot. A leader, especially a governor, should emerge on the weight of his performance or capacity, not because one man wants it to be so. Oshiomole has had his fair chance in the administration of the state, and in fact, waged a tough war against any semblance of godfatherism.
So, what has changed now? That is a question Edo electorate should ask at the poll and let their thumbs show they will not be held in servitude to Oshiomole. That is the task before them when they pick the ballot on September 19, and that will not only sustain ongoing development efforts in the state but show to the world that indeed, Edo is not Lagos.
Each state has its peculiarity, and even more, a purpose that will be easily defeated when selfish interest sets in. We’ve seen the Lagos example, where the godfather, so brazenly, tampered with governance that it serves individual purposes more than a collective one. That is something Edo people cannot endure and must push back the dangerous antics to put them in the same misery Lagosians are struggling to escape from.
For some supporters of the ludicrous agenda of Oshiomole, they will point to Lagos and say godfatherism is yielding good dividends, but what they will never tell you is the magnitude of revenue that accrues to Lagos and how development cannot commensurate it. Check anywhere, the godfather has no real benefit, other than to give one man unrestrained access to public wealth.
Oshiomole knows this very well, which is why he is pushing real hard to impose his wish on the Edo people and complete his initiation into godfatherism. On September 19, it will not be the usual election but a fight against a retrogressive ideology that will put the state in perpetual bondage– godfatherism. Will Edo people be able to stop this? Time will tell.
Written by Oke Umurhohwo, a Political Analyst and Strategist. He tweets via @OkeStalyf and can be reached on oke.umu@gmail.com
Enugu govt inaugurates Administrative Panel of Inquiry into Ugwuaji land dispute
…As panel calls for Memorandum from those laying claims to disputed land
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has inaugurated the recently constituted six-man Administrative Panel of Inquiry into Ugwuaji land dispute in Enugu South Local Government Area of the state.
Inaugurating the panel, which is being chaired by Chief James Ikeyi, SAN, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, stated that the decision was in keeping with the unflinching commitment of the state government to sustain the enduring peace in the state for political and socio-economic development to continue to thrive.
The governor maintained that “no business or investment can thrive in any society without adequate peace and security of lives and property”.
He therefore directed that “all claims to, and/or activities on the disputed parcels of land should cease forthwith until final submission of panel’s report and state government’s disposal action on the matter”.
Responding on behalf of the members, the Chairman of the panel, Chief Ikeyi, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for finding them worthy to serve the state in that capacity and promised him that they will discharge their duties creditably, without fear or favour.
Shortly after the inauguration, the panel issued a public notice, calling for “Memorandum from individuals, groups and any other person(s) directly or indirectly affected by the land dispute or that may have any claim regarding the Land in dispute”.
A statement by the panel’s Secretary, Robinson O. Odo, stated that “your submission shall be in ten (10) copies on A4 paper size, double spacing and addressed to: The Chairman, Administrative Panel of Inquiry Into Ugwuaji Land Dispute, Room 2A, Abuja Building, Government House, Enugu”.
He added that “submission of Memorandum ends on Tuesday, 15th September, 2020”.
Other members of the panel are: Major-General Godwin Ugwoke (Rtd), Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, Mr. Godwin Ishiwu (Surveyor General, Enugu State) and Barr. Chudi Ozokolo.
Former governor of Enugu State and senator representing Enugu East in the Senate, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, has commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for his efforts and commitment towards rehabilitation of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
The airport was re-opened last week after one year of closure.
In a tribute he personally signed, yesterday, Senator Nnamani noted that “it is ennobling that governor Ugwuanyi has lived up to expectation of overseeing the primary and central city of Igbo land. Not only did he coordinate, organise and champion the activities, he was directly involved on a daily basis in the rehabilitation of the airport project.”
The two-term lawmaker also praised Ugwuanyi for the bold steps taken to relocate the Emene market abattoir, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) mast and other structures that were hitherto obstructions to smooth operations at the airport.
Senator Nnamani was pleased that Ugwuanyi, who now leads the Ebeano political family, has demonstrated statesmanship, courage and leadership as governor of the coal city state that is now a pride to Igbo land.
“I welcome with excitement the news of the reopening of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport that serves as the gateway to the Igbo area of Nigeria. This is consistent with the role expected of the governor of Enugu State to symbolise total Igbo social and cultural appropriation of the city of Enugu.”
He reiterated that Ugwuanyi’s style of leadership anchored on equity and justice has sustained and indeed improved on the peace, unity and development of the state.
As gov provides befitting office for Force CID Annex
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Mohammed Adamu Abubakar, has commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for his outstanding commitment to the security of the state.
IGP Abubakar also applauded the governor, who he described as “a very security-friendly governor” for “always making the security agencies in the state comfortable to be able to discharge their duties without fear of favour”.
The IGP spoke when Gov. Ugwuanyi inspected a befitting office complex for the newly created Force CID Annex for the South East geo-political zone located at the Command’s Detective College, Enugu, which was renovated and furnished by his administration.
The Police Chief, who was represented by the Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmad Abdurrahman, described the edifice as “a very good architecturally magnificent office”…, which we are going to hand over to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, who will be the Commander of this very highly investigative outreach of the Nigeria Police Force”.
CP Abdurrahman, on behalf of the IGP, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his timely intervention, when Nigeria Police Force was looking for an office for the new unit, disclosing that the governor “came in handy without hesitation and said CP, tell the I.G that I will take full responsibility and I will give them a befitting office that will house them.
“I am therefore here representing the Inspector General of Police to receive the renovated edifice”, the CP said, thanking God for the life of the IGP “who in his wisdom found it very expedient to locate this office here in Enugu for the South East investigation unit”.
Enugu State Government has fixed Thursday, September 3, 2020, for interview of all nurses of the state’s origin who had submitted their applications to the State Ministry of Health, Enugu.
The venue for the interview, according to a statement by the Head of Service, Ken Chukwuegbo, is ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, at 9.00am
Chukwuegbo added that candidates are advised to come with the originals and photocopies of all their credentials, including their Local Government Area identification letters.
“Successful candidates are expected to start work immediately after the interview session”, the Head of Service said.
…Asks those in custody of weapons snatched from security agencies to return them
*State Security Council approves immediate joint patrol, meeting with royal fathers, religious and opinion leaders
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Tuesday, rose from an emergency Security Council meeting with all the heads of security agencies in the state, reiterating his commitment to unravel the causes of the civil disturbances of August 23, 2020, as well as put further machinery in motion to forestall future re-occurrence.
Addressing newsmen after the meeting which took place at the EXCO Chambers of the Lion Building, Government House, Enugu, Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed sadness over the loss of lives during the untoward events.
The governor said that “as the Chief Security Officer of the state, I am at all times committed, to doing all within my powers, to ensure the security of lives and property in Enugu State”.
He added that “following the emergency Security Council meeting…, it has become necessary to give those responsible for getting to the root of these unfortunate developments a little more time to complete their work”.
Gov. Ugwuanyi further said: “The events of the 23rd August, 2020 which culminated in the loss of lives of members of Nigerian Security Agencies and residents of Enugu State as well as recent reports of attacks on Railway Police Station, Ogui, on 28th August, 2020 and Unity Police Station, Abakpa, on 30th August, 2020 where weapons were reportedly carted away, have been matters of great concern to me”.
The governor therefore asked those in custody of weapons snatched from security agents to return them to the agencies or the nearest traditional ruler who will return same to the appropriate security agency.
While appealing for calm and understanding of all concerned “as we work together to sustain the long existing and cherished peace in Enugu State”, the governor disclosed that the State Security Council in the meeting approved the immediate joint patrol by all security agencies and a meeting with traditional rulers, religious and opinion leaders to hold on Thursday, September 3, 2020, at the Government House, Enugu.
It would be recalled that the governor, in the wake of the civil disturbances in the state, summoned an emergency state Security Council meeting for September 1, 2020, where "all security agencies in the state are expected to brief His Excellency, the Governor, fully, on the immediate and remote causes of the clashes, as well as advance measures to avert such occurrences in the future.”
Gov. Ugwuanyi to appoint new Administrators, Members of Development Centres
Following the expiration of the tenure of the Development Centre Administrators and Members in the 17 Local Government Areas of Enugu State, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has announced plans by his administration to reconstitute the membership of the Development Centres.
Gov. Ugwuanyi made the announcement during a meeting with the outgone Administrators, and the 17 Local Government Council Chairmen held at the Government House, Enugu, on Tuesday.
The governor who thanked the former Administrators for the services they rendered to their Development Centres, Local Government Areas and the State, disclosed that new Administrators and Members of the Development Centres will be appointed, after due consultation.
Governor of the South East geo-political zone and other leaders of the zone, on Sunday, converged on the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to witness the historic reopening and inauguration of the newly rehabilitated runway of the airport, expressing deep appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for acceding to their yearnings by approving and releasing the sum of N10 billion for the rehabilitation of the airport.
Speaking during the reopening of the airport which was closed on August 24, 2019, for a comprehensive rehabilitation of the runway and other facilities, the Igbo leaders also commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for his exceptional commitment, resilience and sacrifice towards the actualization of the project.
Describing the event as a dream come true, they also appreciated other South East governors for their individual and collective contributions to the completion of the project.
They equally paid tribute to the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, for his untiring efforts in ensuring that the airport runway was rehabilitated to standard as one of the best in the country, against all challenges.
In their separate speeches, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, the Deputy Chief Whip, House of Representatives, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Geoffrey Onyeama, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, among others, thanked President Buhari and the South East Governors, especially Gov. Ugwuanyi for the reopening of all-important airport, stressing that it will go a long way to enhance commercial activities in the zone, and safety of air travelers.
They therefore urged the federal government to ensure that the ongoing construction of the Cargo terminal and International wing of the airport were also completed as scheduled.
Speaking on behalf of the South East Governors and other leaders of the zone, Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi State thanked President Buhari for expressly approving a special funding (N10 billion) for the rehabilitation of the Enugu airport as well as the special release of the fund.
Gov. Umahi also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Aviation, Sen. Sirika for displaying a special character worthy of emulation, in seeing that the project was realized.
The South East Governors Forum (SEGF) chairman equally appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for his outstanding commitment and the courage he displayed in ensuring that all the requests made by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the resolution of the SEGF with regard to safety measures, were implemented to the letter.
According to Gov. Umahi, “Governor of Enugu State, we can’t thank you enough. You made the job of all the South East Governors so easy; you undertook to do it alone. Thank you for the courage in removing all the illegal structures affecting the safety of the air travelers. Thank you for the road you built and other infrastructure, logistics support and daily supervision you offered in this place. Mr. Governor (Ugwuanyi) we are very grateful to you, thank you very much”.
In his speech, the Minister of Aviation, Senator Sirika, who declared that the airport has been formally opened for domestic flights “today” and international flights on September 5, said: “We are proud to say that this project being commissioned today is indeed a testimony to Mr. President’s commitment to the provision of infrastructure in the country”.
Sen. Sirika expressed absolute gratitude to President Buhari “for giving approval of N10 billion to undertake rehabilitation of the runway and other works, which include taxi way, link way, emergency operation centre, car park, entrance gate, perimeter fencing, perimeter wall, terminal rehabilitation, instrument landing system to allow landing even in bad weather, among others”.
He maintained that the federal government has “delivered the project on time and on budget and will focus on delivering the Cargo terminal and the international terminal building and many more”, disclosing that “just before I left my office, I have approved and released the sum of N1 billion to continue the international terminal building”.
The Minister lauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his “unwavering support and the assistance he has given to us in the course of this project”.
In his welcome address, Gov. Ugwuanyi who appreciated the unparalleled commitment of President Buhari to the infrastructural upgrade of the airport, disclosed that the Enugu State government in its determination to provide the enabling environment and needed support to ensure the quick completion of rehabilitation works undertook and provided the required support.
According to the governor, the support includes, complete removal of all encroachment on the airport facility; removal and relocation of the 120-meter Enugu State Broadcasting Service TV/Radio Mast and Transmission Station; removal, demolition and relocation of the Orie Emene market; construction of a 1.3km asphalt road to the Very High Directional Radio Range/Distance Measuring Equipment (V.O.R/D.M.E) navigation facility at Emene; Provision of finance for the upgrade and refurbishment of existing toilet facility in the terminal building, among others.
Gov. Ugwuanyi who noted that it was indeed an enormous sacrifice on the part of the government and good people of Enugu State, pointed out that it was a sacrifice worth the while, with the historic event of the reopening of the newly rehabilitated airport.
The governor stated that the project was a clear testimony to President Buhari’s determination to "rebuild the nation through the provision of critical infrastructure, to stimulate economic growth and development of the Nigerian nation".
He also appreciated his fellow South East governors, the Minister of Aviation, Senator Sirika and other stakeholders, for their efforts and commitment to the actualization of the project.
Other dignitaries at the event include Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, Imo State Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Prof. Placid Njoku, Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, Senator Smart Adeyemi, Senator Jim Nwobodo, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, Prince Arthur Eze, Dr. Chris Ngige, Chief Ogbonnaya Onu, members of the National Assembly from the zone, the Obi of Onitsha, HRM, Igwe Alfred Achebe, etc.
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, plays host to the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika and Prince Arthur Eze, at the Government House, Enugu, ahead of the reopening and inauguration of the runway of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on Sunday.
The Enugu Division of the National Industrial Court has issued Interim Orders restraining the leadership and members of the Enugu State chapters of:
-The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives
-The Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria
-The Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), respectively,
from embarking on any strike/industrial action, pending the hearing and determination of Motions on Notice for Interlocutory Injunctions already filed separately by the Enugu State Government, on August 24, 2020.
The court also made an Order of Interim Injunction restraining the members of the affected three bodies “or any other persons however so called or described acting under the instructions, direction or mandate of the Defendants from embarking on, or continuing in furtherance of, any strike/ industrial action, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice already filed”.
The court therefore granted the Claimant/Applicant (Enugu State Government) leave to serve the Originating Summons, Motions on Notice and all other processes in the Suits on the Defendants, respectively, along with the Interim Orders granted.
The court orders were granted by Hon. Justice N.C.S Ogbuanya, on August 28, 2020, in Suit Nos: NICN/EN/31/2020, NICN/EN/32/2020 and NICN/EN/33/2020, filed against the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), and the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria, respectively.
…Directs claims, activities on disputed land to cease until outcome of panel’s report, its disposal action on the matter
The Enugu State Government has constituted a six-man Administrative Panel of Inquiry into the disputed land in Ugwuaji Community, in Enugu South Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, the panel which has Chief James Ikeyi, SAN, as Chairman, is to establish the true owner of the parcels of land in dispute as well as ascertain the entire area of disputed land.
Other terms of reference of the panel are “to ascertain individual claims or title to parcels of land in the disputed area” and “make any other finding that will ensure lasting peace in the area”.
Prof. Ortuanya, who disclosed that the setting up of the panel was approved by the State Executive Council in its 10th meeting held on Friday, August 21, 2020, added that it is expected to complete its assignment within two (2) months of its constitution.
“To this end, all claims to, and/or activities on the disputed parcels of land should cease forthwith until final submission of panel’s report and state government’s disposal action on the matter”, the statement said.
Other members of the panel are: Brigadier General Godwin Ugwoke (Rtd); Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu; Mr. Godwin Ishiwu (Surveyor General, Enugu State); Barr. Chudi Ozokolo and Mr. Robinson Odoh, Mni, who serves as the Secretary.
Members of the House of Representatives Committee on Health Institutions have commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for his administration’s developmental strides in the state.
The federal lawmakers made the commendation when they paid a courtesy call on Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu.
The committee, which was led by its Deputy Chairman, Rt. Hon. Martin Oke, was in Enugu on an oversight visit to federal health institutions in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, the member representing Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency of Lagos State, Hon. Dr. Bashiru Dawudu, applauded the governor for reconstructing and remodeling the historic and undulating Milliken Hill road, Enugu, and other landmark projects, including the ongoing massive construction works at the state’s Infectious Disease Hospital, Enugu, formerly known as Colliery Hospital Enugu.
“This is wonderful, we are very proud of you," the lawmaker told the governor.
Hon. Dawudu also lauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for the various interventions undertaken by his administration towards upgrading and rehabilitating health facilities in the state, pointing out that the state government’s intervention in its teaching hospital was “amazing”.
He appreciated the governor for spearheading a “peaceful and well organized state”, stressing that “this is a place that should be emulated in terms of planning and organization”.
Hon. Dawudu added that “this is a testimony of good governance, and we are proud of your performance”.
The lawmaker who described Ugwuanyi as “one of the best governors in Nigeria”, assured him of their continued prayers and support.
While acknowledging the synergy between the Enugu State government and the Federal Government, Hon. Dawudu called for more collaboration especially in the health sector, disclosing that “there are a lot federal interventions that will come to this state”.
In his remark, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who welcomed the honourable members to the state, appreciated the purpose of their visit and assured them of his administration’s commitment to peace, good governance and the wellbeing of the people.
During the recent inauguration of a Bailey bridge across Nyama River, linking communities in Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the former Governor of old Anambra State and Senator who represented Enugu East Senatorial District, Sen. Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, utilized the heart-warming occasion to bare his mind on the existing peace in the state.
Sen. Nwobodo, who said that Gov. Ugwuanyi has wiped away his tears by constructing the bridge for his community after decades of neglect, disclosed that one of the greatest achievements of the governor’s administration is the existing peace in the state, which he said has brought security and rapid development, especially in the rural areas.
The deeply touched elder statesman said, “Since 1999, I have never been to Enugu and stayed more than two weeks. But since this governor came, I have been in Enugu for the past six months because of the peace he (Ugwuanyi) has entrenched. Thank you for this great honour you have done to me. I thank you for wiping away my tears”.
Sen. Nwobodo’s telling observation, genuine expression of gratitude and sincere assessment of the birthing of an enduring peace in Enugu State present a compelling opportunity to reflect on and appreciate the governor’s untiring efforts, resilience and sacrifice in ensuring sustainable peace and good governance in the state.
In Enugu State today, there is an existing cordial working relationship among the three arms of government. There is also a cordial government-labour relationship. This was responsible for the recent peaceful negotiation and payment of the new minimum wage without rancour or industrial action, for the first time in the history of the state - a rare experience which the state workers have continued to commend Gov. Ugwuanyi for.
Significantly, besides Sen. Nwobodo, other prominent personalities in the state, from all walks of life, have also favourably assessed the governor’s uncommon leadership qualities anchored on peace and good governance.
Former President of the Senate, Sen. Ken Nnamani, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, Sen. Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu, Sen. Hyde Onuaguluchi, Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, Ambassador (Mrs.) Justina Eze and a host of others, had eulogized Gov. Ugwuanyi for providing the platform for unity, peace and a harmonious existence.
For instance, during the grand finale of the governor’s door-to-door campaign, held at Udenu LGA, ahead of his reelection in 2019, some of these stakeholders commended him for entrenching peace, tranquility and good governance, in a manner that has never been experienced previously in the history of the state.
They described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a man of history, expressing delight that he has united everybody in the state, irrespective of political leaning. The leaders told him that the culture of peace and good governance he has entrenched in the state was unprecedented and will earn him a landslide victory at the polls.
While Sen. Ekweremadu disclosed that “there is no bickering or quarrels among the political leaders in the state", Sen. Nwobodo, who described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a son, thanked him “for bringing everybody together”.
According to Sen. Onuaguluchi, “Gov. Ugwuanyi has brought uncommon peace to the state” and “all of us have come to learn from Gburugburu [the governor]".
Amb. (Mrs.) Eze joined the chorus in elucidating what the governor’s peace initiative means to the political stability and rapid development of the state.
At the state government’s reception for the Nigerian Ambassador to Republic of India with Concurrent Accreditation to Bangladesh and Nepal, Major General Chris Sunday Eze (rtd) in respect of his appointment, the former President of the Senate and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sen. Ken Nnamani, also applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for demonstrating political maturity by creating an ambience of peace and tranquility in the state where everybody is accorded his or her due respect.
On another occasion, the former Governor of old Enugu State, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, said that “Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has done remarkably well in the area of keeping the peace in Enugu State”, adding that “this is the first time, since the current republic, a regime has provided peace within the ruling party and across party line”.
Dr. Nwodo who said that “this is very commendable”, pointed out that the governor has been “most proactive” in assisting the security agencies in Enugu State, as “all the agencies have been provided with massive logistic support to assist them in securing the state”.
His words: “He [Ugwuanyi] has even gone further to create local vigilante groups and Forest Guards to help the police in their efforts. He is one of the first state Governors to set up community policing in Nigeria. When it comes to settling communities that have been at daggers drawn for many years, he has built a reputation for himself.
“I am aware that the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators conferred on him an honorary membership of the institute in recognition of his efforts in conflict resolution and mediation. I wish him well in all these initiatives to make Enugu the most peaceful state in Nigeria”.
Presenting his verdict on Gov. Ugwuanyi, Sen. Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, a former Governor of the state, opined that “his [Ugwuanyi’s] administration has prioritized justice and fairness to all, peace, security and prosperity to our people, economic empowerment and infrastructural renewal”.
Sen. Nnamani emphasized that the governor “scores impressively high on peace, security, rural development, urban renewal, political inclusiveness and forbearance, improvements in healthcare and basic education, industrial harmony as well as a workforce motivated by prompt payment of salaries and other incentives”.
According to the Senator, “he has shown remarkable leadership in times of adversity and kept our state relatively safe from the ravaging COVID-19 pandemic”.
On his part, the Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuma, while baring his mind on Gov. Ugwuanyi’s penchant for peace, said: “In Enugu State, we have experienced peace and the era where people have political enmity and others, have all gone. Everybody is happy, the traders are happy, there is sympathy, there is concern, and there is respect for everybody, irrespective of class, religious or political affiliation”.
During a special post-election Thanksgiving Mass at the Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), the Spiritual Director of the Ministry, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a rare, God-fearing leader who has continued to lead the state on the path of peace and good governance with uncommon zeal, passion and humility, even after his re-election to office.
The cleric therefore commended the governor for continuing with his massive infrastructural development projects across the state as well as other remarkable achievements such as workers’ welfare. He equally lauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his humility, passion for the wellbeing of the people, especially the poor “and kind-heartedness for being a father to his people”.
Prior to that, Rev. Fr. Mbaka, had during Gov. Ugwuanyi’s Thanksgiving Mass for his victory at the Supreme Court, poured encomium on the governor, describing him as "an epitome of peace; an outstanding leader, a sanctuary of conflict resolution and model for rural and urban development", stressing that this is the first time since he became a priest, that the state is experiencing peace.
As Enugu State clocks 29, soaring in peace and good governance, the message is clear: that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s uncommon leadership style has kept faith with the dreams and aspirations of the state‘s founding fathers.
This aligns with the stance of former Secretary-General and now President-General of Enugu State Development Association (ESDA), Chief Enechi Onyia, who had identified the promotion of the principles of love, unity and peace among the political, religious and traditional institutions, as one of the cardinal dreams and aspirations of the founding fathers of Enugu State.
Chief Onyia had also attributed the developmental strides in the state to the peace and good governance initiatives of Gov. Ugwuanyi, saying: “There is very significant peace in Enugu State; without peace there is no progress”.
Interestingly, Enugu State under Ugwuanyi’s watch has continued to occupy its pride of place as one of the most peaceful and secure states in Nigeria, to live and do business, as well as the capital city of the nation’s Eastern Region; East Central State; old Anambra State; old Enugu State, when Abakaliki (now part of Ebonyi State) was part of it and the present Enugu State.
It could be recalled that Marcus Tullius Cicero, the Roman statesman, lawyer and philosopher who played an important role in the politics of the late Roman Republic once observed that “The safety of the people shall be the highest law." If Cicero’s insight held true then, it certainly does so currently.
Today, the country is witnessing challenges bothering on violence and insecurity, among others. But in the Coal City State, the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, leveraging on an inclusive vision of governance, discipline and regime sincerity has managed to keep the state on an even keel, safe and progressive.
This peace being enjoyed today in Enugu State, which the leaders have endorsed in unison, is hardly contestable and must not be taken for granted. It needs to be further recognized and complemented by all stakeholders in the overall interest of the people and the state.
Arc. J. J Emejulu’s mischievous and baseless lies against Enugu State Government debunked
…As Hon. (Arc.) Paul Eze clears the air,
*Says Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is known to be a peace-loving person and never threatened to harm Arc. Emejulu
Hon. Arc. Paul Eze, who represented Uzo- Uwani/Igbo Etiti Federal Constituency, whom Arc J. J Emejulu in an unsigned statement alleged that he (Arc. Eze) told him that the governor threatened to harm him for destroying the perimeter fence of the Enugu airport, has debunked the allegation.
Hon. Arc Eze said: “I know my governor to be peace-loving. He is not a threat to peace in Enugu State. Everybody can vouch that this is the most peaceful regime in Enugu State. He (governor) never told me that he will kill Emejulu, neither did I tell Emejeulu that His Excellency said he will kill him. So I am very shocked at that very accusation”.
No amount of blackmail against the reopening of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, will ever work.
Following the reported clash between the security agencies and members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), at Emene, in Enugu State, on Sunday, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi visited the scene and was assured by residents of the area and the security agencies that normalcy has returned, and that the place is calm.
The Enugu State Government has expressed dismay over what it described as “unfortunate, deliberate and malicious falsehood” against it and its development control agency, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), by the Enugu zone of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC).
A statement by the State Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, said the "calculated attempt to bring the state to disrepute is as a result of the state government’s determination to fully implement the request of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the resolution of the South East Governors’ Forum (SEGF) by removing all obstructions to the reconstruction and critical infrastructure works at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, aimed at improving the safety standards of the airport”.
Aroh reaffirmed the state government’s commitment, as the host state, to implement to the letter, the decision of the South East Governors’ Forum, and ensure speedy completion of the ongoing rehabilitation and construction works at the airport.
Presenting a detailed narrative of what transpired, the information commissioner, who stressed the need to put the records straight, said, “Pursuant to the resolution of the South East Governors’ Forum referred to above, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) requested for the removal of obstruction at the airport construction site along Ukwu Orji area by the rail tracks as contained in the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria letter to the Governor reference no. FAAN/ENU/AM/22/VOL.V32 of 11th May, 2020.
“The state government then directed the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) to issue appropriate notices to all owners and occupants of illegal shanties and structures obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the airport.
“On June 29, 2020, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) issued a public notice advising all owners of illegal shanties and structures obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the airport to remove same within two weeks.
“On July 10, 2020, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), in line with the Federal Government’s directive on the upgrade of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu and pursuant to the request of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), published a public notice on page 28 of Vanguard Newspaper, giving notice of demolition to all occupants/owners of illegal structures and shanties, obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. The agency gave a further 3-week notice that demolition will commence from July 31, 2020.
“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by another letter reference no. FAAN/ENU/AM/15/VOL.6, dated July 21, 2020, forwarded to the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) a comprehensive map detailing the areas and structures obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu that have been marked for removal.
“In line with the above and in consultation with all relevant stakeholders and community leaders in the affected areas, the Enugu State Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) commenced demolition and removal of shanties and illegal structures within the affected areas to ensure speedy completion, upgrade of critical infrastructure and eventual reopening of the all important Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
“It is on record that in its commitment to ensure the speedy completion, upgrade of critical infrastructure and safe operation of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu, the Enugu State Government has taken the following additional steps:
“i. Relocation of the 120 meters Enugu State Broadcasting Services mast
ii. Construction of 1.3 km asphalt road to the airport navigational facility.
iii. Provision of finance for upgrade and refurbishment of existing toilet facilities in the terminal building. This includes the installation of sensor sanitary sittings such as contactless automatic taps and flush systems, baby changing facilities, handicapped toilets, air conditioning and ventilation system.
“The state government has no intention whatsoever to acquire any piece of land belonging to the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), rather the government is determined to provide all needed support to the Nigeria Railway Corporation and any other Federal Government agency operating within the state to ensure their full operation and functionality.
“Finally, no amount of blackmail, falsehood or malicious propaganda will deter the state government, as the government is irrevocably committed to the upgrade, speedy completion of the critical infrastructure work and safe re-opening of this very important National Security Asset located in Enugu State.”
Politics › Ugwuanyi Inspects Ongoing Projects At ESUT Teaching Hospital, Igbo-Eno by OEPHIUS(op): 5:39am On Sep 18, 2020
