₦airaland Forum

*NIGERIANS REJOICE AS SIR (DR) EMEKA OFFOR FOUNDATION (SEOF) DONATES MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AND BOOKS WORTH OVER 30 MILLION US DOLLARS TO HOSPITALS, ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA AND 18 OTHER AFRICAN COUNTRIES.*

In line with Sir Emeka Offor's initiative geared towards supporting the efforts of the Federal Government in the provision of quality healthcare service and education to the citizens, his foundation - Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF), has donated educational materials and healthcare facilities worth millions of dollars to hospitals and academic institutions across Nigeria and 18 other African countries. As the first phase of books are being distributed, 80 (eighty) Universities, 22 (twenty two) Polytechnics, 37 (thirty seven) Colleges of Education, 7 (seven) Public Libraries (one from each of the 6 (six) Geo-political zones including FCT), 180 (one hundred and eighty) Primary and Secondary Schools each Nationwide have received their support materials. 

Over 14 containers of consumable and medical equipment have been distributed, with each of the following institutions receiving one 40 feet container each. Some of the institutions that have received these medical equipment and supplies are;

•National Orthopedic Hospital Enugu - 1 Container
•Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Teaching Hospital Awka, Anambra - 1 Container
•Police Hospital Abuja - 1 Container
•University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital - 1 Container
•General Hospital Daura, Katsina - 1 Container
•Federal Medical Centre, Bayelsa - 1 Container
•Federal Medical Centre Katsina, Katsina State - 1 Container
•Gombe State Specialist Hospital Gombe - 1 Container
•Kebbi State Medical Centre Kalgo, Kebbi State - 1 Container
•Nigeria Police Force - 1 Container
•Nigeria Army - 1 Container
•Ogun State Hospital Ilaro, Ogun State - 1 Container
•Central Hospital Benin City, Edo State - 1 Container
•General Hospital Oraifite, Anambra State - 1 Container
•Emergency Deployment - 1 Container

This is the biggest donation of medical equipment and books across the Federation made by an individual. Some of dignitaries that graced the event during the presentation of books to academic institutions include;
His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Represented by Minister of State for Education - Hon. Barr. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba), Executive Governor of Abia State - Chief Okezie Ikpeazu (Represented by Abia State Commissioner of Health), Executive Governor of Edo State – His Excellency Godwin Obaseki (Represented by Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Edo State), Former Governor of Borno State – His Excellency Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff, Honorable Minister of Health – Dr. Emmanuel Osagie Ehanire (Represented by Chief Medical Director of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi - Prof Anthony Igwegbe), Former Minister of State for Health – Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong, Sen. Magnus Abbe, Chief of Army Staff – Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai (Represented by Maj. Gen. Chukwuemeka C. Okonkwo), Director General State Security Service (SSS) - Yusuf Magaji Bichi (Represented by Anmabra State Director SSS – Alex Agada), United States Ambassador to Nigeria – Her Excellency Mary Beth Leonard (Represented by Country Rep of Nelson Mandela Fellowship - Mr. Austin),Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Bishop Matthew Kukah, Executive Governor of Gombe State; H.E. Muhammad Yahaya, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Ubah; Senator representing Anambra South, Minister of State for mines and steel development, Former Senate President; Ken Nnamani, Dr. A.B.C Orjiaoko; CEO, SEPLAT Petroleum, Timi Alaibe, Prince Ned Nwoko, A.I.G Chris Ezike (rtd), Chief Ufondu, Sir. Tony Obi, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC Deputy Managing Director – Mr. Paul Okeke, Bishop of Nnewi Anglican Diocese - His Lordship, Rt Reverend. Ndubuisi Obi (Represented by Reverend Canon Prince Chukwuma), Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese - Most. Rev. Hilary-Paul Odili Okeke, Traditional Ruler of Oraifite – His Royal Highness, Dr. Igwe Daniel Udeoji, Traditional Ruler of Ozubulu – His Royal Highness, Obi Nnamdi Oruche, President General of Oraifite Improvement Union - Sir Sunny Igboanuzue, Vice Chancellors of various Universities, Rectors of various Polytechnics and Provosts of various Colleges of Education amongst many other prominent personalities. 

Sir (Dr.) Emeka Offor is a philanthropist par excellence; a man with the milk of human kindness flowing abundantly in his veins, as his passion for the poor and downtrodden is unrivalled. Sir “E” as he is fondly called made the largest single donation by an individual to Rotary Foundation in the whole of Africa when he donated 1million dollars to rid the world of Polio. His total contribution to Rotary International for the fight against Polio currently stands at $3.1m today. The Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF) is a household name in philanthropy as robust, responsive and sustainable initiatives aimed at complementing Government’s efforts are rolled out from time to time for the betterment of the society.

In view of Sir (Dr.) Emeka Offor’s innumerable strides in business and philanthropy, he has undoubtedly created a niche for himself within and beyond the shores of Nigeria and as such, his name will linger forever in the minds of the people. These are indeed the calibre of people the Nation needs now that we are faced with very daunting challenges in our economic, health and education sector.

The Enugu State Government has ordered the closure of all land borders and inter-state transportation in the state till further notice, with effect from 6pm on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, except those on medical emergency services.

In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, the state government also ordered the closure of all markets in the state, “no matter the size, till further notice, with effect from 6pm on Tuesday, the 31st day of March, 2020”.

The statement added that other categories exempted from the closure include “those dealing on food items, water, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and other basic items of daily domestic need who must comply with the standard hygiene protocol as stipulated by the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), including frequent hand washing with soap, use of sanitizer and social distancing.”

According to Prof. Ortuanya, “all Local Government Chairmen are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance with the closure of the markets within their respective local government councils, without prejudice to the exceptions above”.

While appealing for understanding from the residents and citizens of the state “at this difficult time as no sacrifice is too much to save the lives of our people”, the state government directed the security agencies and the State Medical Response Team to enforce all the directives as stated above.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

Access Bank Plc is teaming up with Aliko Dangote to provide treatment and isolation centers across Africa’s most populous nation as it braces for the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The facilities, which will be located across the country of more than 200 million people with a total of 1,000 beds, will be ready within weeks, Access Bank said Thursday in an emailed statement.

They will have Chinese experts and serve as testing, isolation, treatment and training centers, the lender added.

Nigeria has so far recorded 51 cases of the Covid-19 virus, including one fatality. There are fears the spread could become exponential if community infections aren’t curtailed.

…Mobilizes Volunteers, Town Criers for enlightenment campaign in rural areas

In furtherance of his resolve to strengthen the state’s response to Corona Virus Disease pandemic, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has approved the immediate provision of Group Life/Group Personal Accident Assurance Policy for all medical doctors in the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu.

In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, the assurance package is also extended to all doctors in the State Ministry of Health and all other health workers.

Other beneficiaries, according to the statement, include fire fighters, staff of Enugu State Emergency Management Agency and all those involved in other essential services.

Prof. Ortuanya added that Gov. Ugwuanyi is hopeful this goodwill will inspire higher commitment and productivity amongst the beneficiaries.

In a related development, the governor has directed the Presidents General of all Town Unions in the state to mobilize volunteers and town criers in their respective autonomous communities to enlighten residents of their communities on adherence to the protocol for prevention of COVID-19 transmission with effect from Thursday, March 26, 2020.

The Presidents General were further directed to interface with the Enugu State Multi-sectoral Rapid Response Team, through the Permanent Secretary, State Ministry of Health, for collection of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials on Corona Virus disease, for use by the Volunteers and Town Criers.

According to Prof. Ortuanya, the state government has also made provisions for logistic support to the Presidents General for the various Town Criers for this assignment.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

Breaking News!

Governor Ugwuanyi addresses Ndi Enugu on COVID-19 pandemic

*Shuts down all educational institutions in the state

*Directs all public officers/civil servants to work from their homes except health workers, Forest Guards, Neighbourhood Watch personnel, Water Corporation staff, Waste Management operatives, staff of Enugu State Emergency Management Agency, Fire Fighters and all those involved in other essential services.

*Suspends all cultural and social gatherings including marriage ceremonies, burial ceremonies, masquerade festivals, drinking bars, night clubs and all group sporting and recreational activities.

*Says that social distancing protocol as advised by Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) should be observed during public religious worship as well as in restaurants and eateries.

*Directs all Local Government Council Chairmen to mobilise their Environmental and Community Health Workers to sustain the ongoing public enlightenment on protocol for prevention of Coronavirus disease transmission in our markets and parks.

*States that all public transport operators in the state are to observe the following rules on passenger conveyance in each instance: (a) Keke - not more than two passengers (b) Commuter buses - not more that two passengers per seat (c) City Cab - not more than three passengers.

*Advises all public places to observe high level of hygiene by use of sanitizers and frequent hand washing as earlier advised by Enugu State Ministry of Health.

* Directs the law enforcement agencies in the state to enforce strict compliance with the above mentioned safety measures.

While noting that "this is a trying time in our world, nation and state", Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that the state government in the past weeks has taken proactive safety measures to contain the Coronavirus disease pandemic, through the realease of N330 million for strengthening the Coronavirus disease pandemic; strengthening of the State Emergency Operations Centre led by the State Ministry of Health; establishment of a Multi-sectoral Rapid Response Team comprising representatives of relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies including local and international partners such as Nigeria Center for Disease Control, World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

Full text of the address below...

SPECIAL ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, THE GOVERNOR OF ENUGU STATE ON MEASURES TAKEN BY THE STATE GOVERNMENT IN RESPONSE TO THE CORONA VIRUS DISEASE (COVID 19) PANDEMIC

My good people of Enugu State, good afternoon.

This is a trying time in our World, Nation and State. In the wake of the Corona Virus Disease pandemic, a lot has happened.

Nations in the world have taken stern steps to contain this ravaging public health challenge. Our Nation, Nigeria, is not an exception.

We salute the leadership and courage of Mr. President, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, and the National Presidential Task Force on Corona Virus Disease in dealing with this global emergency in Nigeria.

In Enugu State, consistent with our commitment to provision of healthcare and preservation of the sanctity of human life, we have in the past weeks taken proactive safety measures to contain the Corona Virus Disease pandemic.

These measures include the following:

Strengthening the State Emergency Operations Centre led by the State Ministry of Health.
The establishment of a Multi-sectoral Rapid Response Team comprising representatives of relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies including local and international partners such as Nigerian Center for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO) , United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

The release of N330,000,000.00 (Three Hundred and Thirty Million Naira) only, for strengthening the Corona Virus Disease Preparedness and Response. Out of this sum, N150,000,000.00(one hundred and fifty million naira) only, is dedicated to purchase of additional Ambulances and Incident vehicles; Personal Protective Equipment; upgrade of State Infectious Diseases Isolation Centre; training of Health Workers; advocacy and public enlightenment. The sum of N80,000,000.00 (Eighty Million Naira) only, is for restocking of the State Drug Revolving Scheme while the remaining N100,000,000.00 (One Hundred Million Naira) only, is provisioned for unforeseen public health challenges.

In view of the escalating threat of the Corona Virus Disease pandemic, I, in consultation with the State Multi-sectoral Rapid Response Team, Security Agencies and other relevant stakeholders now order the following additional safety measures with immediate effect:

Closure of all educational institutions in the State.
All Public Officers/Civil Servants to work from home till further notice except the following:
Health Workers;
Forest Guards;
Neighborhood Watch Personnel;
Water Corporation staff;
Waste management operatives;
Staff of Enugu State Emergency Management Agency;
Fire fighters; and
All those involved in other essential services.
Suspension of all cultural and social gatherings including the following:
Marriage ceremonies;
Burial ceremonies;
Masquerade festivals;
Drinking bars;
Night Clubs; and
all group Sporting and Recreational activities.

The Social distancing protocol as advised by Nigerian Center for Disease Control should be observed during public religious worship as well as in Restaurants and Eateries.

All local Government Council Chairmen are hereby directed to mobilise their Environmental and Community Health Workers to sustain the ongoing public enlightenment on protocol for prevention of Corona Virus Disease transmission in our markets and Parks.

All public transport operators in the state are to observe the following rules on passenger conveyance in each instance:
Keke – not more than two (2) passengers.
Commuter Buses – not more than two (2) passengers per seat
City Cab – not more than 3 passengers.

7. All public places to observe high level of hygiene by use of sanitizers and frequent hand washing as earlier advised by Enugu State Ministry of Health.

8. The law enforcement Agencies in the State have been directed to enforce strict compliance with the above stated measures.

Residents are advised to make provisions for basic needs while we await further advice from the State Multi-sectoral Rapid Response Team. Government will continue to update our people as the need arises.

I commend the efforts of our Health Care Providers for their commitment and dedication to duty as well as resilience in this challenging time.

Ndi Enugu, while I regret the inconveniences that the above measures will inevitably occasion for our people, I enjoin everyone to make these necessary sacrifices to protect ourselves and the future of our world. It is my conviction that the abiding Grace of the most merciful God will see us through this time.
Enugu State is in the Hands of God, and in all we do, we give God due Glory, Honour and Adoration.

Thank you and God bless.

Rt. Hon. IfeanyiUgwuanyi
Governor, Enugu State
24/03/2020

The Senate Committee on Works has assured Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State that it will liaise with the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure reimbursement of N23.7 billion being owed the state on outstanding certified expenditure in respect of rehabilitation of federal roads in the state.

Responding to a passionate appeal by Gov. Ugwuanyi for intervention on the outstanding debt, when the senate committee paid him a courtesy call at the Government House, Enugu, the chairman of the committee, Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero, assured the governor that they will do their very best to ensure the money was paid. Members of the Works Committee were in Enugu State, in furtherance of their oversight function on Federal Highway Projects in the state.

Gov. Ugwuanyi had, while addressing members of the committee informed them that the state government, following its interventions on federal roads in the state, was invited by the National Ad hoc Committee on Promissory Note Programme and Bond Issuance, on June 4, 2018, to settle the inherited local debts and contractual obligations.

The governor disclosed that it was established at the meeting that Enugu State was owed the sum of N35,873,332,998.00 “for interventions on federal roads from 2007 to 2018 and was certified for reimbursement”.

He added the national ad hoc committee had explained that only the sum of N13,563,954,759.44 was as yet approved for reimbursement to the state by the Federal Ministry of Finance, disclosing further that “out of the above sum, the state has received the sum of N12,204,991,518.46”.

Consequently, Gov. Ugwuanyi told the senate committee that the state, is being owed the sum of N23,668,341,479.54, in outstanding reimbursable expenditure in respect of rehabilitation/reconstruction of federal roads in Enugu State, between 2007-2018.

While maintaining that the interventions by the state government complied substantially with the conditions for rehabilitation of federal roads “including awarding these projects in accordance with the Federal Government specifications through the Federal Ministry of Works”, the governor reemphasized the value the sum would add to the lives of the people of the state “in this austere time, if reimbursed”.

Reacting, Senator Aliero, who noted that the money ought to have been paid, since it has been certified by the Federal Ministry of Works after due process was followed, reassured the governor that his committee would intervene, stressing that “it can do quite a lot towards the development of this state, in education, health, rural electrification and even roads”.

Other senators at the event include Senator Ike Ekweremadu, Senator Kabiru Gaya, Senator Chukwuka Utazi, Senator Clifford Odia and Senator Kabiru Barkiya.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

Louis Amoke assesses the performance of Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi who clocks 56 today
He is no less a child of providence. Attaining 56 years of age on March 20, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State is certainly the man of the moment for so many obvious reasons. With his unique disposition to life, the governor has come a long way navigating with peacefulness, humility, caring, compassion, vision, hard-work and the fear of his beloved God. He has carved a niche for himself as an outstanding leader whose approach to handling issues remains unbeatable and enduring.

The governor’s birthday is the first after his inauguration for a second term in office following his overwhelming reelection by the people of Enugu State. He won with an unprecedented 95.54 percent of the votes cast, the highest in the history of the country and this is symbolic and yet another opportunity to appreciate God, through acts of charity, for his mercy and kindness.

To this great man of faith and goodwill, compassionate in uplifting the downtrodden and resolute in entrenching peace and good governance in the state, the anniversary, is as always, people-centered and a boost to continue to serve with the fear of God and render selfless service to the state and humanity.

It is on record that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s penchant for the wellbeing of the people, especially the needy and downtrodden in the society, has been unequalled and a great source of strength.

In ensuring peace and good governance in Enugu State, the governor in spite of the nation’s security and economic challenges, has continued to make sacrifices and work round the clock to sustain the state’s enviable peaceful atmosphere and enhance the delivery of service to the people at every level of the state.

As an unassuming leader, Gov. Ugwuanyi is at peace with everybody; he relates and interacts with both the high and the low; he listens, tolerates, accommodates and cares; and most importantly, fears and serves God, faithfully. He has no enemy and always pays the ultimate price for peace to reign. The governor is one who delights in the joy of his people and shares in their grief as well.

Gov. Ugwuanyi also delights in addressing grey issues that are paramount to the wellbeing of the people, especially the lowly and long neglected who had hitherto been denied the dividends of democracy.

His administration’s widely cherished rural development policy, which has provided the veritable platform to address the hydra-headed imbalance between urban and rural dwellers in terms of distribution of amenities, indeed, caused a spontaneous revolution that brought about massive infrastructural development in the rural areas.

The state government’s grassroots-development initiative has, therefore, ensured a systematic concentration of infrastructural developments more in the rural areas that were hitherto in dearth of amenities, helplessly. The special attention to rural areas, where the majority of the people reside, was borne out of the governor’s vision to give every citizen of the state a sense of belonging.

It is on record that Ugwuanyi’s administration has profusely invested huge resources in developing the rural communities, concentrating development projects in the remote villages to create more urban centres for socio-economic growth.

In this regard, communities such as Amurri and Ogonogoeji in Nkanu West LGA, Eha-Amufu in Isi-Uzo LGA, Ukpabi-Nimbo-Ugbene Ajima-Eziani in Uzo-Uwani LGA and Akpugoeze in Oji River LGA, that had not experienced state government presence for many decades, have been remembered with one development project or the other.

The sum of N3.4 billion was appropriated in the 2020 budget, for the establishment of a Small/Medium-sized Industry in each of the seventeen (17) local government areas of the state, at an average sum of N200 million per LGA.

While all these were going on, the Ugwuanyi administration through its urban renewal drive has equally ensured provision of critical infrastructure, beautification and upgrade of facilities in the urban areas, while restoring Enugu city to its original master-plan. The state government in its 2020 budget also captured the construction of the Enugu first ever flyover and completion of the International Conference Centre (ICC), among other legacy projects, to enhance the status and socio-economic potentials of the state capital.

On the whole, about 600 kilometers of road across the state have been covered so far by Ugwuanyi’s administration.

This is in addition to remarkable achievements in other sectors of development such as security, state workers’ welfare, education, health, empowerment, investment promotion, agriculture, Judiciary infrastructural transformation, among others.

Only recently, the state workers trooped out in their numbers and marched through the streets of Enugu to the Government House, in jubilation, to thank Ugwuanyi for being the first governor of the state, since the inception of democracy in 1999, to pay them the minimum wage without rancour.

The jubilant workers, who were led by the state leadership of the Organised Labour, sang solidarity songs and displayed banners/ placards with inscriptions such as: “Enugu State workers say Thank You His Excellency for the new minimum wage”, “Gburus, Enugu workers say Thank You for regular payment of salaries”, “Gburus, thank you for giving us new minimum wage without stress”, “Thank you for regular payment of monthly pensions”, “Gburus, you are a pacesetter”, “Gburus is our man”.

They told the people’s governor that the workers were surprised and elated to receive their salary alerts during the weekend reflecting the new minimum wage in line with the agreed consequential adjustment chart.

According to them, “today is a special day in the history of Enugu State. This is because there is no worker in Enugu State that did not benefit from Ugwuanyi’s alert, and that is why we are singing now”.

Narrating other numerous interventions of the governor towards the welfare of the state workers, such as the 100 units of one-bedroom flats for civil servants between grade levels 01-10, regular payment of salaries and pensions and the payment of 13th month salary, the workers pointed out that “It’s instructive that Gov. Ugwuanyi was recording such feats at a time when many states could not pay their workers’ salaries”.

Speaking at the event, the state chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, Comrade Benneth Asogwa maintained that the state workers marched to the Government House to let the world know that “it is because you have been able to turn the history positively as far as minimum wage is concerned in Enugu State”.

According to him, “we want to also tell them (the world) that what we are doing today is significant because in the past, whenever minimum wage was being expected, it was always negative. Then, we would mourn from, maybe, New Haven to our Secretariat crying and shouting. Then, you would see all Enugu in pains. But today, we have come to Government House, smiling”.

Comrade Asogwa, who maintained that this was the first time the workers had a salary chart that was a product of collective bargaining, told Governor Ugwuanyi that “the greatest political party you have identified with is the public service and you are a full registered member and we can tell you that you have our mandate, anytime.”

His words: “I want to summarise by saying that history will never forget your regime. We stand here to say that in Enugu State, we have worked for years without salary chart until somebody called Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, a.k.a Gburugburu, came and the dignity of workers was restored. We stand here today to say, Your Excellency, we are very grateful”.

On the significance of the governor’s 56th birthday, the time-honoured occasion, symbolically reinvigorates his commitment to charity and almsgiving – a constant moral obligation in appreciation of God’s goodness and amazing grace to him as “Nwaogbenye”.

The anniversary offers him and his family, friends, well-wishers, and teeming supporters, who have remained steadfast in prayers, yet another opportunity to give to the poor and less privileged in the society with all sense of divinity and benevolence.

Consequently, the pet project of the governor’s wife, Ugo’s Touch of Life Foundation, is at the moment offering one week free medical outreach across the 17 LGAs of the state, in collaboration with Dr. Chukwudi Abraham Nneji Hospital Organisation, Germany, to celebrate the governor’s birthday.

This humanitarian exercise is in keeping with the governor’s long-held appeal that those who intended to offer him birthday gifts should deploy them to charity in appreciation of God’s mercy and kindness as well as in the spirit of the Lenten Season.

As we celebrate with the people’s governor, it is our collective responsibility to continue to appreciate God‘s abundant blessings upon him and his family’s life, reflect and pray fervently for continued peace and good governance, and encourage him to hold on tightly to his sound vision to take Enugu State to the next level. Happy Birthday, His Excellency. Enugu State is truly in the hands of God!

…Asks people not to panic

…As it’s fully ready to contain the scourge, other health challenges

Following the suspected case of Corona Virus - COVID19 in Enugu, relating to a 70-year old woman, the state government has released the sum of N20 million to the management of the State Isolation Centre to ensure that the facilities are optimally ready to deal with the situation and any other emergency that may arise over the weekend.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, stated that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has provided the required leadership and logistic support to ensure that the State Ministry of Health and the Emergency Operation Centre are functioning at optimal level and fully ready to deal with any emergency in the state.

Aroh added that the state government has also ensured that the suspected patient, who had a recent history of having traveled to the United Kingdom where she spent five months and had just returned to the country, is very stable in the isolation centre and receiving the best available medical treatment.

The information commissioner disclosed that the state government in line with routine protocol had informed the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and necessary samples collected and sent to IRUA Specialist Hospital in Edo State for investigation, saying: “We await the results of the investigation soon”.

While assuring the public that all the relevant agencies and institutions in the state are fully activated and very ready to respond to any issue arising from the Corona Virus - COVID19 or any other health emergency, the state government maintained that “there is absolutely no reason to panic”.

“The good people of Enugu State are further encouraged to ensure the highest level of personal hygiene including the regular washing of their hands and use of sanitizers in public places”, the commissioner said.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

…Says launch of Coal City Rice, seven other Agric products underway

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Friday, said his administration has appropriated the sum of N3.4 billion in the 2020 budget for the establishment of a Small/Medium-sized Industry in each of the seventeen (17) local government areas of the state.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, who spoke during the opening ceremony of the 31st Enugu International Trade Fair, held at the Trade Fair Arena, Enugu, disclosed that an average sum of N200 million was appropriated for the project in each of the 17 LGAs.

The governor explained that the rural development cum job creation initiative is both government-driven and stakeholder-participatory, adding that the choice of the industry will depend on each of the local government’s comparative advantage.

He also disclosed that his administration has “registered eight ( agricultural products brand trademarks including the Coal City Rice which will be launched soon, all in a bid to make the difference and give back to our people”.

Speaking on the theme of the Trade Fair, “Advancing the growth of SMEs through corporate governance for rapid economic development”, the governor pointed out that it was very apt as it captured the mood of the nation as an emerging economy. He maintained that Small and Medium-sized Enterprises /Businesses (SME) are the most potent drivers of the economy, especially in developing countries.

While disclosing that the state government has invested a lot of time and energy to position Enugu as a destination of choice for genuine investors, the governor stated that “our administration has continued to function as business and investment enabler through the provision of secure operating environment for business/investment, consistent and favourable policies, facilitation of all bureaucratic processes for starting and doing business, friendly tax regime, professional regulatory oversight role etc”.

According to him, “our progress in this direction is self-evident in the leapfrogging of our state from its 2014 World Bank Ease of Doing Business ranking as 27th out of 37 states (including FCT Abuja), to an enviable ranking as the 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.”

The governor, who welcomed the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Hon. Mariam Katagum and her entourage to the event, commended the President of Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agricultu re (ECCIMA), Sir. Emeka Nwandu and other members of the Chamber for organizing the 31st edition of the annual business programme “and showing the right sensitivity to the economic grasp of our country”.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

A Bayelsa State political group has called for the immediate Resignation of the Senator Representing Bayelsa East in the Nigerian Senate, Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo.

David Lyon and Degi were both sacked a day to their inauguration by the Apex Court as governor and deputy governor respectively over certificate forgery by the Senator.

A member of the Group, Dr. John Idumange who made this known via a post on the Group’s Facebook Page, called on the Senator to resign.

The Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Prof. Mohammed Isah, has commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for his commitment in ensuring public office holders’ strict compliance with the rules of the Bureau, as exceptional and worthy of emulation.

Speaking when he led members of the Board of the Bureau to the Government House, Enugu, on a courtesy visit, Prof. Isah, stated that the governor has been very supportive to the establishment in terms of enforcement of the Code of Conduct rules.

The Code of Conduct Chairman disclosed that he was impressed to note that Gov. Ugwuanyi ensured that the public office holders (Exco members) who served during his first term in office duly declared their assets before collecting their severance allowance, stating that “no state has done it before”.

Prof. Isah, who urged the governor to “continue your good job in fighting corruption”, called on other leaders in the country to emulate his good gesture.

He said that “Enugu is one of the well established and highly developed states, by all standards, in Nigeria”, adding that “a lot of investments have been made in Enugu State and this is a result of good governance of His Excellency (Ugwuanyi) and his predecessors”.

The Chairman disclosed the Bureau’s approval to establish its South East Zonal office in Enugu to enable them expand their services as well as investigate and prosecute all cases of non-compliance in the zone.

“We have investigators, we have prosecutors. In all the state offices, we don’t have investigation and prosecution units but with the development of the establishment of zonal offices, when they come on board, we are going to have investigators and prosecutors”, he explained.

Prof. Isah informed the governor that they are in Enugu for the nationwide enlightenment workshop for public officers on the imperative of strict compliance with asset declaration and Code of Conduct, which commences on Thursday.

Responding, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who welcomed the Chairman and members of the Board to the state, endorsed the exercise, disclosing that “the public officers of our state are adequately mobilized and ready for this important engagement with your Bureau”.


Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

Newly inaugurated ESUT Governing Council backs return to multi-campus status

The newly inaugurated Governing Council of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has endorsed the decision of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration to return the institution to the multi-campus University it was originally meant to be.

Speaking after the Governing Council was inaugurated by Gov. Ugwuanyi, at the Government House, Enugu, on Tuesday, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Most Rev. Prof. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, stated that the state government’s decision was a welcome development that would enhance intellectual growth in the rural areas.

Prof. Onah, who is the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, added that the resolution “not only offers it room for faster growth, but also allows it to act as a leaven to raise the intellectual tone of more rural communities in the state”.

The cleric, who spoke on behalf of members of the newly inaugurated Council, expressed gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for the confidence he has reposed in them to serve the state, applauding him for “the sustained attention you have paid to education at all levels in the state since you came into office”.

He disclosed that Ugwuanyi’s administration has constructed, renovated and equipped a high number of classroom blocks, both in the primary and secondary schools as well as tertiary institutions, among other remarkable interventions.

According to him, “ESUT has been a privileged beneficiary of this attention in many ways, even in times when harsh economic realities in the state and in the country could have offered you plausible excuses for reducing your support”.

“For this, the ESUT Community is grateful” and “this should not be taken for granted”, he maintained.

The Council Chairman also appreciated the governor’s accessibility and availability to the council, management, Labour Unions and student body of the ESUT, describing such uncommon leadership disposition as ‘unparalleled’.

“On our part, we promise you that we shall put in our best. This Council will do all it can, with your usual support, to provide the enabling environment for the University to pursue excellence in research, teaching and learning”, Prof. Onah said.

Disclosing further that remarkable successes have been recorded in this regard in the past few years, the Bishop pointed out that “our aim should be to make ESUT a centre for scientific research and innovations that would provide local answers to some of our most basic needs”.

Inaugurating the Council, Gov. Ugwuanyi acknowledged the immense contributions of the last ESUT Governing Council, in repositioning the University at a time the institution had multidimensional challenges such as accreditation, infrastructure, staff salaries, and arrears of staff emoluments.

The governor expressed delight at the Bishop’s acceptance to offer the state another four years of his invaluable service; to help consolidate on the achievements made so far in repositioning the University.

He therefore tasked the new Council to work with the University management to “re-engineer the finances of the institution leveraging opportunities for Grants, Intellectual Products and University Enterprise, as there is a limit to school fees hike and government’s subvention enhancement”.

Expressing confidence that the caliber of membership of the Council will certainly change the ESUT narrative positively, the governor charged them to hit the ground running and ensure that the founding objectives of the great institution are fully realized.

Members of the Council include Prof. Luke Anike (the Vice Chancellor), Lady Jane Nnamani, Dr. Nicholas Onyebuchi Agbo, Prof. Osita Ogbu, Prof. Engr. Emmanuel Ezugwu, HRH Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu and Rev. Fr. Ikechukwu Ani.

Others are Prof. C.I. Ani (rep. Senate), Prof. Frank Asogwa (rep. Senate), Mr. Chibuzo Okoh (rep. University Congregation), Engr. Dr. Innocent Akuvue(rep. University Convocation), Prof. Uche Eze (Comm. for Education rep. the Ministry), Dr. Suleiman Babatunde Raymon-Yusuf (rep. NUC) and Leonard O. Khama, the University Registrar, who serves as Secretary to the Council.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi's administration is truly out to reclaim Enugu's lost masterplan, beautify the city with aesthetically-driven projects and decongest traffic gridlock being experienced in some strategic locations in the state capital, for the safety, security and convenience of residents, in line with the state government's urban renewal drive as well as its concerted efforts to reduce crime and contain the menance of street trading with its associated dangers.

In this regard, Gov. Ugwuanyi, today, inspected some ongoing projects in Enugu metropolis, being executed by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), such as the installation pedestrian safety mesh panel from No.1 Ogui Road by Young Shall Grow Transport, to Chris Chemist by Zenith Bank along Ogbete Main Market, Enugu and construction of West Road 8, Trans Ekulu, Enugu to link Nnamdi Azikiwe Road and Corporation Boulevard, including the installation of safety mesh panel and expansion of the popular Dhamija road.

The pedestrian mesh panel installation was also introduced at Savage Crescent by Polo Shopping Mall, GRA, Enugu. The mesh panel is being installed at Kenyatta Market and along Kenyatta Street from Amawbia junction to Bishop Aniogwu junction. The said Kenyatta road is being dualized with the construction of a modern vehicle park. Pedestrian bridges are being constructed at Ogbete Main Market, Enugu and Mayor Bustop, Agbani Road.

The state government, through ECTDA, is equally constructing Hawkers Market with toilets and tricyle park at ESBS junction, Independence Layout, Enugu, to relocate and accommodate the business interests of the street traders and tricycle operators there.

The whole essence is to safeguard and enhance the wellbeing of residents of the state as well as restore the coal city to its original masterplan for socio-economic advancement.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

EX GOV DICKSON URGES PARTY LEADERS, SUPPORTERS TO SUPPORT GOV DIRI TO CONDUCT CONSULTATIVE WARD CONGRESSES

The Immediate past Governor of Bayelsa State, the Honourable Henry Seriake Dickson, has urged the leaders and teeming supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party to give their unflinching support to state Governor, Hon Douye Diri, to ensure the successful conduct of ward congresses in the State on Saturday.

The former Governor who thanked party leaders and members for their enduring loyalty and support to the party urged them to conduct rancour free, credible and consultative all inclusive congresses in the state.

The ex-Governor said in a statement by his Media Aide, Mr Fidelis Soriwei, on Thursday that the exercise led by the Governor was designed to strengthen internal cohesion within the party and not to weaken it.

He said that the Governor has his support and indeed the leadership of the party in the exercise and should have the cooperation of all members and leaders.

He commended members for the maturity and the consultative, all inclusive approach which they have adopted for the exercise and urged them to sustain it in the interest of the party.

“I thank all party leaders and members for their support for the Governor. I urge all party faithfuls to work towards a rancour-free consultative, all-inclusive exercise tomorrow.

“The exercise is meant to strengthen the party and not to weaken it so all party leaders and members should support the exercise led by the Governor

“The Governor has my support in what he is doing. I like the way the exercise has started with consultation in various wards.

“I urge our teeming supporters to continue in that spirit. They should ensure that it is consultative and all inclusive.”

…As Aviation Committee inspects project

*Commend Gov. Ugwuanyi's efforts

Members of the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, have tasked the contractor handling the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, PW, to double its efforts towards ensuring the airport is reopened by Easter, as earlier promised.

Speaking on behalf of members of the aviation committee, when they inspected the ongoing airport rehabilitation, on Thursday, the committee chairman, Hon. Nnoli Nnaji, expressed concern over the pace of work, stating that “it is not acceptable to us if you don’t complete this project before Easter”.

Hon. Nnaji who reminded the contractor of its promise that the rehabilitation of the runway and installation of necessary equipment will be ready before Easter, disclosed that the committee had promised Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, whom he said has made a lot of contributions towards the reopening of the airport, and the entire South East people as well as all those using the airport, that the project will completed, inaugurated and put to use as promised.

“So we are asking you to apply all necessary means to facilitate this all-important project. You promised us that even if it means working at night, that you people will achieve it. Double your efforts so that this airport can be used before Easter. There are certain things you complained about; the consultant said they have been taken care of. So I don’t think there will be issues.

“We are pleading with you to deliver quality work as scheduled. We don’t want to disappoint our people. We want to make sure that we live up to our promise”.

Insisting on quality, Hon. Nnaji maintained that his committee is also ensuring that the work being done by the contractor meets the international standard for the safety and convenience of the airport users.

During their visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi, the aviation committee chairman, had thanked the governor for all his efforts towards the realization of the airport project, including his recent promise to reconstruct the access road to the VOR/DME and meteorological facilities behind NNPC depot at Emene.

He equally appreciated the efforts of other governors of the South East geo-political zone, the Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, the leadership and members of the National Assembly, especially the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and his fellow committee members, among others, stressing that “we have a mandate to ensure that the Airport is reopened before Easter”.

Addressing newsmen, the Enugu State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji, who is also member of the Technical Committee of the South East Governors Forum on the rehabilitation of the Enugu airport, restated Gov. Ugwuanyi’s commitment towards completion of renovation works at the airport.

Other members of the committee, during the oversight function at the airport, include Hon. Musa Mohammad Pali (deputy chairman), Rt. Hon. Martin Oke, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, Hon. Kasimu Bello Maigari, Hon. Ifeanyi Chidi Momah, Hon. Abubakar Yarima Idris, Hon. Shoyinka Olatunji, Hon. Hassan Abudulahi and the clerk of the committee, Young Woko.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

…Says it has constructed, renovated over 890 classroom blocks

The Enugu State Ministry of Education, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to continuous upgrade of facilities in its schools across the state for conducive learning and more qualitative education.

The State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Uche Eze, who made the disclosure, said the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, through the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB), has constructed and renovated close to 900 classroom blocks, including toilets and provided modern lockers and chairs for primary school children; tables, arm chairs and armless chairs for the teachers, as well as ceiling fans and marker boards for teaching, in the 17 local government areas.

It will be recalled that the ENSUBEB, mid last year, procured and distributed 22,150 lockers and 22,150 chairs for primary school children, 1,228 tables, 1,228 arm chairs and 2,456 armless chairs for the teachers, as well as 1130 marker boards for teaching and 1,960 ceiling fans, for conducive learning environment.

Speaking when he led the Chairman of ENSUBEB, Chief Ikeje Asogwa and his team, to inspect facilities at Practicing School I,2,3 &4, Emene, Enugu, on Wednesday, Prof. Eze stated that Gov. Ugwuanyi has special interest in the wellbeing of school children in the state.

He noted that despite inheriting a lot of infrastructural decay in the education system, the state government has committed enormous energy and resources in addressing the challenges to ensure that the schools are transformed for conducive learning.

The education commissioner maintained that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration has spent more money in the education sector, after works and infrastructure, than other sectors, revealing that construction and renovation of more classroom blocks with toilets and other facilities in Practicing School, Emene, had earlier been captured in the next intervention, immediately the state government accesses the 4th quarter of 2016 - 1st quarter of 2018 of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) counterpart funds, which is in the pipeline.

Prof. Eze who pointed out that some buildings in the school had already been marked for renovation and demolition, revealed that the number of classroom blocks executed so far by the present administration, according to statistics, “out-numbered the renovations and constructions done from 1999 to 2014”.

Stressing that basic education is fundamental, the commissioner emphasized that the state government’s commitment “to bring all our classrooms to a level that will make our learning environment conducive is sacrosanct”.

Also speaking, the Chairman of ENSUBEB, Chief Asogwa, stated specifically that the present administration in Enugu State, has constructed and renovated over eight hundred and ninety (890) classroom blocks, including toilet facilities, across the 17 LGAs of the state, among other interventions, worth over N9.8 billion.

He added that “the state government has also employed 3,530 primary school teachers and has distributed lots of school furniture totaling about 45,000 durable plastic desks and chairs, among others, aimed at improving the learning process”.

His words: “We have also tried, as much as possible, to transform instructional materials that they use in the classroom. Now, instead of the old black board system, they have white boards in the classrooms. For the children to study in a better environment, we now have ceiling fans in the classrooms too.

“The decay we inherited was quite enormous. But today, the learning environment is being improved; the teaching system is also being improved. We have also conducted a lot of training and retraining of our teachers and that is still ongoing. Our intervention in the education system is a continuous process because there is no way we can address all the challenges the same time. It is step by step considering our limited resources.

“So a lot is being done to ensure that we improve the education sector. The Governor is seriously interested in improving the education sector. The state has committed over N9.8 billion in the last four years just for primary education and an EXCO approval has also been received for additional N1.5 billion.

“This shows that the state government’s level of commitment to quality education of our children is high and commendable”.

The National Industrial Court sitting in Enugu has issued an interim injunction restraining the members of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) in Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, from continuing with the industrial action already embarked upon.

The Court further restrained the Association and/or its members from taking any action in furtherance of the strike action pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice already filed by the Enugu State Government.

The interim injunction was issued by Justice O.O. Arowosegbe upon the Motion Exparte filed by the state government on March 2, 2020.

Justice Arowosegbe ordered the Resident Doctors to “forthwith stop the strike already commenced and immediately stop any action in furtherance of the strike or any strike till the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”

The case has been adjourned till March 17 for hearing of the substantive motion.

The Association of Resident Doctors of ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, had embarked on industrial action, which the state government faulted.

*Reiterates govt’s commitment to LG autonomy
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Monday, inaugurated the newly-elected Chairmen of the seventeen local government areas in the state and their deputies amid excitement, charging them not to betray the overwhelming confidence reposed in their leadership capacities and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by the electorate.

The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC), on Sunday, declared candidates of the PDP winners of Chairmanship and Councillorship seats contested in all the 17 Local Government Areas and 260 electoral wards in the state, respectively and issued Certificates of Return to the new Chairmen, accordingly.

Speaking during the inauguration, Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed delight that the people of the state turned out in their numbers to elect the chairmanship and councillorship candidates of the PDP in all the 17 LGAs and 260 electoral wards, and enjoined the newly-inaugurated chairmen and councilors to “exercise your popular mandates with the fear of God”.

The colourful event was well attended by dignitaries and party leaders, including Senator Ike Ekweremadu and other members of the National Assembly from the state, Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi and his colleagues, State Chairman of PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani and members of his executives. Others include Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma, Senator Fidelis Okoro, Senator Hyde Onuaguluchi, Senator Gilbert Nnaji, Chief Gbazuagu Nweke Gbazuagu, former National Woman Leader of PDP, Chief Mrs. Josephine Anenih, former State Chairmen of PDP (Dr. Charles Egumgbe, Engr. Vita Abba, Chief Ikeje Asogwa), revered traditional rulers, among others.

The governor also charged the chairmen to lead with utmost sense of transparency, accountability, probity, and humaneness, advising that “in very difficult economic times like this, your government must wear a human face and work to lift our people out of poverty”.

He told them that “you must work diligently to execute the constitutional responsibilities of the third tier of government to help us to catalyze rural development and economy”.

According to him, “We want to see competitive development in the construction and maintenance of feeder roads, health facilities, primary educational facilities, portable water, rural electrification, and investment in agriculture, among others”.

While acknowledging the untiring efforts of his administration in enhancing the security of the state, Gov. Ugwuanyi further charged the new Chairmen to complement the state government’s efforts and prioritize security and peace in their respective local governments, for the state to achieve more progress.

“To effectively do this, I expect you to live among your people in line with our understanding ahead of the election. Make yourselves very accessible to the people, interact with them regularly, feel their pulse constantly in order to serve and secure them better.

“Our administration frowns seriously at absenteeism or running of your respective Councils from outside your localities; and we hope that no Council Chairman or Councilor tests our resolve in this regard”, the governor said.

Reiterating his administration’s continued support and respect for the autonomy of the Local Government Councils, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that “there shall be no interferences whatsoever in the running of the Councils”, adding: “Instead we will continue to synergize with the Councils to better the lots of the rural areas where the overwhelming populations of our people live”

He, therefore, told the council chairmen that “your loyalty is to God and the country; and your commitment is to the people”.

On the peaceful and successful outcome of the Local Government elections, as was publicly confirmed by the independent, accredited observers, the governor pointed out that the feat was as a result of the premium his administration places on “the quality and purity of the electoral process in Enugu State”.

He, therefore, applauded the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) and the security agencies for providing the necessary resources and environment “for our people to freely exercise their franchise and have their votes count.

“I also commend the political stakeholders for their peaceful and good conduct”.

He appreciated the people of the state, on behalf of the PDP, “for reenacting your age-long support for the PDP, once again.

“I salute your loyalty and perseverance as you endured the scorching sun and queued up for hours to vote for us. This is yet another vote of confidence in our administration and party; and we will never forget this or take your loyalty for granted”.

The governor further noted that the political actors conducted themselves in a very decorous and peaceful manner across party lines right from the primary elections to the main elections, saying that it was “double celebration over our victory and a peaceful and credible exercise”.

Earlier in his brief remark, Archbishop Chukwuma commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the peaceful and successful conduct of the Local Government elections in the state, describing the exercise as “transparent and violence-free”.

The cleric tasked the newly-inaugurated chairmen to raise their performance bar in line with the people-oriented programmes of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration especially at the grassroots.

As party thanks electorate, congratulates its candidates

Following successful conduct of the Local Government elections in Enugu State, on Saturday, the State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC), has declared candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winners of Chairmanship and Councillorship seats contested in all the 17 Local Government Areas and 260 electoral wards in the state, respectively.

Declaring the results at the ENSIEC headquarters, on Sunday, the Chairman of electoral body, Dr. Mike Ajogwu, SAN, stated that the elections were peaceful, free and fair and in accordance with the electoral acts as well as guidelines and timetable of the commission.

Dr. Ajogwu explained that results of the councillorship election were declared at the ward level by the Ward Returning Officer, disclosing that councillorship candidates of the PDP won in all the 260 electoral wards and were declared winners.

The ENSIEC Chairman, who announced the results of the chairmanship election, stated that candidates of the PDP got the highest number of votes cast in the 17 LGAs of the state, declaring them winners.

Announcing the results of the chairmanship election, Dr. Ajogwu declared the following candidates of the PDP as winners in the 17 LGAs of the state: Hon. Chukwudi Nnadozie (Uzo-Uwani), Peter Andy Omeje (Igbo-Eze South), Hon. Ifeanyi Agu (Udi), Hon. Solomon I. Onah (Udenu), Hon. Barr. Franklin Udemezue (Oji River), Hon. Patrick K. Omeje (Nsukka), Hon. Jacob Abonyi (Isi-Uzo) and Chief Nwabueze Nnamani (Nkanu West).

Others are, Hon. Abel Uchenna Nwobodo (Nkanu East), Hon. Ezekiel Chukwu (Aninri), Hon. Pedro Okwudili Nwankwo (Awgu), Hon. Alex O. Ugwu (Enugu East), Hon. Emeka Onunze (Enugu North), Hon. Chukwudi M. Ani (Ezeagu), Hon. Ejike W. Itodo (Igbo-Eze North), Hon. Mrs. Nkechi Ugwu-Oju (Igbo-Etiti) and Hon. Monday Eneh (Enugu South). “Certificate of Return” was issued to each of them, accordingly, by the Chairman of ENSIEC.

PDP Reacts…

Reacting to the party’s landslide victory, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed gratitude to the people of the state, especially the electorate, for electing its candidates in all the elective positions, through peaceful and credible exercise.

In a statement by the State Chairman of PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani, the party congratulated its candidates for emerging victorious at the polls.

The party also commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for providing an enabling environment for the conduct of the elections and went further to applaud the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) for providing a level playing ground for all the participants, which ensured that the exercise was peaceful, free and fair.

Hon. Nnamani equally lauded the professionalism and commitment exhibited by the security agencies and other relevant stakeholders in the state, towards the successful prosecution of the electoral exercise, stressing that “the PDP will continue to grow from strength to strength in Enugu State”.

Following the conduct of Local Government Elections in Enugu State, on Saturday, a coalition of accredited independent Observers, has described the exercise as “one of the most peaceful, credible and transparent electoral exercises in the country”.

Addressing newsmen after the exercise in Enugu, the Coordinator of Civil Society Organizations, Samuel Onoja, stated that the elections were “devoid of violence and all forms of irregularities”.

Onoja added that their observations prior and during the elections were impressive, saying that “all the observers deployed to various polling booths across the 17 local government areas of Enugu State, have sent in their reports confirming that the elections were peaceful, transparent, free, fair and devoid of violence”.

He disclosed that the turn-out of voters, especially the youth and women, were also impressive, maintaining that “there were no incidents of violence, ballot box snatching and vote buying, as the electorate exercised their franchise freely and in a peaceful atmosphere”.

His words: “As we usually say, elections in Enugu State are always more peaceful and transparent than in any other state in this country.

“We commend the State Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for making this possible and creating the enabling environment for peace to thrive in Enugu State. We also commend the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC), the security agencies and other relevant stakeholders, for their contributions towards the peaceful conduct of the elections”.

While urging the contestants to accept the results of the elections when released by ENSIEC, the observers applauded the people of Enugu State for their peaceful conducts during the exercise.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, at about 11:15am, voted at his Amube Ward II polling unit in Ohom Orba, Udenu Local Government Area.

...As party leaders laud gov on peace, good governance

Ahead of the Saturday's Local Government elections in Enugu State, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, on Thursday, led stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state in a final push for votes at the grand finale of the party’s campaign, held at Udenu LGA.

The PDP flagged off its Chairmanship campaign last week Thursday at Ikem, the headquarters of Isi-Uzo LGA, where the leaders of the Party and Ohanaeze Ndigbo in the state applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for entrenching peace and good governance through participatory democracy.

Addressing party members and teeming supporters at the grand finale at Udenu LGA, Gov. Ugwuanyi urged the electorate to come out en masse on Saturday and vote for all the Chairmanship and councilorship candidates of the PDP for them to continue to enjoy dividends of democracy.

The governor thanked the people of the state for their show of solidarity, prayers, goodwill and support for the PDP-led state government while advising them to exercise their franchise on Saturday peacefully and avoid any act that could undermine the existing peace in the state, saying that "we don't want crisis anywhere. We sue for peaceful and hitch-free elections, which our state is known for."

He expressed confidence that the PDP will come out victorious on Saturday and charged the party's candidates to live up to expectations when they assume duties on March 2, 2020.

Speaking on behalf of members of the National Assembly from Enugu State, the Senator representing Enugu West Senatorial District, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, appreciated God and Gov. Ugwuanyi for the peaceful processes of the Local Government elections in the state, starting from the party’s primaries to the campaigns.

Senator Ekweremadu who was supported by other members of the National Assembly from Enugu State, noted that the processes of the Local Government elections in the past had been difficult resulting to various crises, attributing the existing peace in the Party today to the uncommon leadership style of Gov. Ugwuanyi.

He also charged the candidates of the party to keep faith with their campaign promises if they win the elections on Saturday by ensuring that they execute development projects in the varoius council areas for the wellbeing of the people, saying: "PDP is our party. It is our destiny".

Earlier in her speech, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Party, Amb. Justina Eze, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his administration’s peace and good governance initiatives, which she said have led to massive developments in the rural areas where the majority of the people reside.

Amb. Eze also thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for the payment of new minimum wage to workers of the state without rancour or industrial action.

The PDP chieftain expressed optimism that the party will win all the contested positions and called "everybody to come out en masse on Saturday to vote for the PDP".

The state Chairman of PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani, who described Ugwuanyi as "the 13th Month Governor of Enugu State", expressed gratitude to God that the party’s campaigns ended peacefully and successfully in all 17 LGAs and 260 electoral wards.

Hon. Nnamani disclosed that the acceptability of the PDP in the state as demonstrated during the campaigns, was a confirmation that "Enugu State is the capital of PDP in Nigeria".

He lauded the governor for the peace in the party in particular and the state in general, adding that he is "the only governor in the history of our country who got over 95 percent votes cast to win his reelection".

The party Chairman equally urged the electorate to come out en masse with their voters' cards to vote for all candidates of the PDP on Saturday.

Other speakers, such as the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, former State Chairmen of the party (Dr. Charles Egumgbe, Engr. Vita Abba, Chief Ikeje Asogwa) and Chief Hyde Onugaluchi, extolled Gov. Ugwuanyi's leadership qualities and canvassed votes for the party.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##