In a firm demonstration of his administration’s utmost concern and commitment to apprehending those behind the assassination of the Head of Nursing Services at the Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Enugu, Mrs. Maria Amadi, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has offered N5 million to any person or persons with information on the perpetrators.
Gov. Ugwuanyi made the offer when members of National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Enugu State Chapter, accompanied by Joint Health Sector Union and Association of Resident Doctors, visited him at the Government House, Enugu, to seek his intervention towards the unraveling of the assassins.
The governor who disclosed that the money will be made available immediately to the State Commissioner of Police, Suleiman Balarabe, stressed that it will go a long way in ensuring that those who perpetrated the dastardly act were apprehended and made to face the wrath of the law.
Gov. Ugwuanyi condemned the unfortunate incident and promised “to get to the root of this crime”. He also commiserated with the families of the deceased and her colleagues, saying: “I am sincerely saddened by the gruesome murder of your colleague. I share in your grief. It is a solemn moment for all right-thinking persons”.
The governor, who disclosed that he had made several interventions to ensure peace in the hospital, said he didn’t know that the crisis in the establishment had taken a new dimension.
He promised to do all that was possible to give late Dr. Amadi justice and ensure that such heinous act does not recur in the state.
His words: “To tell you that we are serious, I am making available the sum of N5 million to the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command for any person or persons that will provide information about the people that killed this nursing officer.
“It is a bad story and we will get to the root of this crime. You have done well by showing your grievances peacefully. It has shown that you love the late Dr. Maria Amadi and I know that wherever she is, she will know that her colleagues did not abandon her”.
In a related development, Gov. Ugwuanyi following the unfortunate killing of the Secretary to Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, Dr. Nnamdi Peter Ogueche by yet-to-be-identified hoodlums, approved the release of N10 million to the wife and children of the deceased.
The governor’s gesture was for the upkeep of his immediate family in keeping with his commitment to assist them to overcome their challenges.
Late Dr. Ogueche’s burial, according to the Uzo-Uwani LGA Chairman, Barr. Fidelis Ani, who expressed the gratitude of the people of the council to the governor for the benevolence, has been scheduled for April 5 at his country home, Adaba. #amokelouis
KWARA 2019: THE GOVERNOR-ELECT’S FIRST MORAL OBLIGATION.
The 2019 General elections have come and gone, congratulations to those who won and it is hoped those who lost learnt some lessons. The beauty of democracy is the role of the electorate in the emergence of government and in demanding accountability from the emerged government. The latter though as important, if not more Important than the former is often being neglected by the electorate.
Though, the election atmosphere differ from state to state, it is generally believed that the outcome of the polls in Kwara state reflected the will of the people of Kwara. Kwarans, having played their role in the emergence of a new administration in the state have a right to demand transparency and accountability from the new government. Failure to do so will be akin to repeating the mistakes of the past.
It is true the newly voted Kwara government has not been sworn in and not much accountability could be demanded from them. Certain issues and allegations raised during the election period are left unresolved and it is believed this response would serve as an early marker of what to expect in the next four years.
There are allegations that the newly elected governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazak submitted a fake WAEC certificate to INEC, issues were raised on abbreviations used in the name on the certificate submitted which is not a normal practice for WAEC certificates. One would have ordinarily expected Abdulrahman Abdulrazak to clear the air on this ambiguity, but he has played the silent game. This is setting a dangerous precedence at the eve of a new administration and the manner in which this issue is handled will be a microcosm of what is to be expected in the next four years.
The constitution of the country is clear and unambiguous in stating the minimum qualification of a gubernatorial candidate and consequently a state governor and also the consequences of presenting a forged document to INEC. Section 177 of the constitution provides for the qualification for election as Governor. The said section provides thus - “A person shall be qualified for election to the office of Governor of a State If - ………………………….. (d) he has been educated up to at least School Certificate level or its equivalent.” (Underlining for emphasis).
On the other hand, Section 182 (1) of the constitution provides for disqualifications of candidates for election as Governor. The relevant section is Section 182(1)(j) which provides as follows - “No person shall be qualified for election to the office of the Governor of a State if - ……………………… (j)He has presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission.” (Underlining for emphasis).
The main issue with the Governor-elect of Kwara State is that he allegedly presented a forged WAEC result to INEC for consideration as his qualification to contest for the office of the Governor of Kwara State. When the news of the Governor-elect’s forged WAEC certificate broke pre-election, there were speculation from most quarters that the allegations were false and nothing more but the handiwork of the opposition parties. However, it is necessary for this issue to be addressed, especially when the elections have come and gone, and Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq who is the main player in this scandal emerged victorious. But he has decided to be silent on this issue, perhaps hoping it will die a silent death.
For a man that enjoyed the overwhelming support of the people during the past elections, a man who was seen everywhere consistently talking to the people and soliciting their votes during campaigns, Abdulrahman Abdulrazak’s loud silence on this allegation of submitting a fake WAEC certificate to INEC is very troubling. The people whose votes he sought, and whose votes he got, reserve the right to demand accountability. And considering the fact that he would not have been Governor-elect today without the people’s mandate, the least he could do was to proffer an explanation to the people on this issue without being moved or ordered to do so by the court. This issue has given rise to so many questions than answers. Did Abdulrahman Abdulrazak submit a forged WAEC certificate to INEC? If not, then why can’t he come out and disprove this allegation? There are several ways to do that. One of such ways is to simply apply for the CTC of his original certificate from WAEC, and let WAEC do the needful by issuing the CTC for comparison with the actual certificate submitted to INEC to spot the difference if any. It’s that simple. It is also very interesting to note that the Freedom of Information Act, 2011 gives the people the right to freely access public records. Section 1(1 - 3) of the FOI Act 2011 provides as follows -
1. “Nothwithstanding anything contained in any other Act, law or regulation, the right of any person to access or request information, whether or not contained in a written form, which is the custody or possession of any public official, agency or institution howsoever described, is established.” 2. “An applicant under this Act needs not demonstrate any specific interest in the information being applied for.” 3. “Any person entitled to the right to information under this Act, shall have the right to institute proceedings in the Court to compel any public institution to comply with the provisions of this Act.” Section 31 of the FOI Act defines a public institution to include legislative, executive, judicial, administrative or advisory body of the Government, including boards, bureau, committees or commissions, subsidiary bodies of state etc. Hence, WAEC is unarguably a public institution within the interpretation of the Act.
In the light of the foregoing provisions of the FOI Act, it is clear that any person can apply to WAEC to view its 1976 records of certificates issued for the purpose of comparison with the certificate submitted by the Governor-elect to INEC. WAEC on the other hand is bound to comply with the provisions of the FOI Act and make such records available to the Applicant otherwise the Applicant is entitled to sue WAEC for compliance with the Act. However the Governor-elect, who has enjoyed the support of the Kwarans, can save people and also WAEC the stress of dealing with several FOI Applications by simply addressing this issue and adducing facts to disprove this allegation.
As the saying goes, "a stitch in time saves nine", Kwara electorates having played their role in the emergence of the new government should also, from now begin to demand transparency and accountability. We have already seen cases of Kwarans going to court to demand accountability on this issue. One of such cases is Suit No: KWS/73/2019 - between Adekunle Oluwafemi Abraham v. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq where the claimant had prayed the court to disqualify the Governor elect based on the issue of this forged WAEC certificate. With all indications and with the way Kwarans are so interested in this matter, several other suits may be filed against Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, as he has a critical role to play in order to put this matter to rest. Despite all of the looming court cases in respect of this matter, The Governor elect Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, as a mark of responsibility, owes the good people of Kwara an explanation of the true state of the matter because of the overwhelming support he has and also to serve as a marker of transparency and accountability of his government when sworn in. This allegation if handled well is capable of converting even the most stout opposition and most neutral observer into a supporter and if handled poorly can be disappointing, but it should not be allowed to die silently.
…As Gov. Ugwuanyi, his deputy, assembly members-elect receive Certificates of Return
The national leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commended the peaceful and successful conduct of the just concluded general election in Enugu State, describing it as exceptional, one of the best in the country and a demonstration of “good electoral behavior”.
The electoral umpire added that the exercise in Enugu State, unlike in some states, witnessed no case of “violence, snatching of ballot boxes or all sorts of electoral malpractices”.
The INEC commendation was made by the National Commissioner in charge of Information and Voter Education, Barr. Festus Okoye, during the presentation of Certificates of Return to Gov. Ugwuanyi and Governor-elect, his deputy and the Deputy Governor-elect, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo and the elected members of the State Assembly led by the present Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi.
Barr. Okoye, who congratulated the recipients, on behalf of the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for their victory at the polls, explained that the exercise “is a formal statutory and confirmatory process that you have won an election in accordance with the constitution and electoral dictates”.
He also congratulated “in a very big way, the people of Enugu State for taking ownership of the electoral process and driving it in a very peaceful and conducive atmosphere that fused power and sovereignty back to them”.
Offering advice to the recipients, he said: “The sealed Certificate of Return that will be presented to you is not a trophy that marks the conclusion of your service. Rather it marks the beginning of your service to the people. The validity of the certificate rests with the people of Enugu State. It is within their constitutional mandate to renew, withdraw and or elevate it. The key word is service to the people”.
Earlier in his opening speech, the INEC State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Emeka Ononamadu, who rated the peaceful conduct of the elections in Enugu State high, “with all the promises of fairness, openness and neutrality intact”, maintained that the exercise “was a tortuous journey that did not come at zero cost, but it is also a journey that the entire nation is poised to learn from Enugu”.
According to him, “we set out for 2019 general election with clear vision which resulted in one of the best elections in Nigeria. On behalf of INEC, I wish to thank stakeholders, particularly the political parties, security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, media, voters and my colleagues in INEC, for their painstaking support in conducting an election which today is being evaluated as one of the best and most peaceful of our time”.
In his brief remark after receiving the certificate, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who appreciated God, thanked INEC and the security agencies for their roles towards the peaceful and successful conduct of the elections in Enugu State.
The governor also thanked the people of the state, who he described as “the true heroes of our democracy” for renewing his mandate and reassured them that he “will continue to serve you with the fear of God”.
His words: “We all prayed for peaceful, free, fair, credible and transparent elections, and by the special grace of God, it ended in praise. This means that truly Enugu State is in the hands of God and in all we do in Enugu State we give God due glory, honour and adoration”.
Truly, Enugu State is in the hands of God! #amokelouis
The Enugu State Governor and Governor-elect, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, on Monday, embarked on pre-contract inspection of roads within Enugu metropolis preparatory to immediate rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Gov. Ugwuanyi, who was accompanied by the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji, inspected the old UNTH road, Enugu; Ogidi street and Onyeama lane in Asata, Enugu amid jubilation and excitement from the residents, told them that now that the election is over he has come to inspect their roads for government's intervention.
The governor, who used the opportunity to once again thank the elated people of the areas for their overwhelming support during the elections, appealed to them to cooperate with the contractors when the projects commence, saying: "I will continue to serve you with the fear of God".
Gov. Ugwuanyi also inspected the ongoing reconstruction of Carter street, Asata, Enugu, which was awarded last week by his administration. He equally inspected the erosion menace at Okwuosa bridge, Ogui, Enugu and promised his administration's swift intervention.
It would be recalled that the governor in his acceptance speech after his reelection, declared that "now is the time to get back to work", pledging "to devote our energies and time to work harder for the wellbeing and prosperity of all our people".
According to him, "I hereby reaffirm that we will continue to serve you with the fear of God, with humility and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our people and lifting the state to unprecedented heights of development and progress.
"Now is the time to get back to work. We are inspired by the sacrifices and support of our people in renewing our mandate. I am confident that by the special grace of God and with your continuing cooperation and prayers, all things concerning Enugu State will continue to end in praise".
Gov. Ugwuanyi's administration had recently awarded N1.4 billion worth of contracts for the rehabilitation/reconstruction of One Day road, Awkunanaw, Enugu; construction of Phase II of Nike Lake junction - Harmony Estate road - Amorji Nike - Adoration Pilgrimage Centre (road works); rehabilitation of Kenyatta Market road/failed sections/potholes/Onah street, Enugu; rehabilitation of Umumba Ndiagu-Ebenebe road (phase one), Ezeagu LGA.
Others include, reconstruction of Amankwo - Amaeke Ngwo - Ama Brewery junction road (Bypass); extension of Amalla-Orba- Orie Orba -Eke Ovoko- Ovoko junction road, and rehabilitation of Pocket Layout internal roads, Independence Layout, Enugu, among others.
Truly, Enugu State is in the hands of God. #amokelouis
The Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Enugu Doicese (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuma, has applauded Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, for his administration's peace and grassroots development initiatives, which gave the rural dwellers free hands to develop their communities.
Archbishop Chukwuma, who spoke during a Thanksgiving Service for Gov. Ugwuanyi's resounding victory at the polls, held at the Cathedral Church of the Good Shepherd, Enugu, stated that the "One Community One Project" programme of the present administration in Enugu State was a good legacy the governor will leave behind at the completion of his second tenure in 2023.
The Archbishop expressed gladness that, "every community can testify that the money (N5m) was given to them" to execute priority projects of their choice.
He also commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the prevailing peace in Enugu State and the good governance his administration has entrenched, stressing that the Thanksgiving Service was also to appreciate God for the peaceful general election in the state.
Disclosing the service was in collaboration with one of the support groups for the governor, "The New Era Democrats" led by Prince Okwudili Ekoh, the Archbishop pointed out that "we work together to make things happen at the grassroots".
Commenting further on Gov. Ugwuanyi's salient achievements, Archbishop Chukwuma thanked him for reconstructing the historic and undulating Milliken Hill road, Ngwo, Enugu and modernizing it with street lights as well as the Opi-Nsukka dual carriageway, among others, describing them as "legacy projects".
He equally described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a great achiever, good man, humble and caring leader, who is closer to the poor than the rich and cares for them, recalling how he showed compassion and care to a woman selling sachet water at the Enugu International Trader Fair, who was intercepted by his security personel for blocking his way with her products.
"Gov. Ugwuanyi did not only ask his security men to leave the woman, he also gave her money to expand her petty business", the Archbishop said, revealing that "he (Ugwuanyi) celebrated his 55th Birthday with the elderly and orphanages" and told those who brought gifts to him, "take everything you want to give me to the poor".
His words: "Your Excellency, because you have sowed the seed of unity in Enugu State, you don't discriminate, I went to the Roman Catholic University, Godfrey Okoye University, to celebrate your birthday, to break the barrier".
Praying for the governor, the Archbishop Chukwuma said: "God will give you the grace to continue your good works without any obstruction. We congratulate you and your deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo and all members-elect for the State and National Assembly seats.
Truly, Enugu State is in the hands of the God! #amokelouis
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has appealed to the federal government to take effective measures to ensure the commencement of mining operations at the authorized locations in the state for proper harnessing of the inherent benefits of the mineral resources.
Gov. Ugwuanyi who made the appeal when he hosted the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Hon. Abubakar Bawa Bwari, at the Government House, Enugu, on courtesy call, stated that “the existing coal mines in Enugu State have long been abandoned”.
He lamented those he described as “Ghost investors”, whose companies, mining leases/ licenses were awarded to by the federal government for years for the exploitation of the minerals in the state but have shown little or no interest.
“We are compelled to describe them as Ghost investors because they have hardly been seen anywhere near the supposed mining areas”, the governor said.
He pointed out that “as a consequence of the inactivity of these companies, all tiers of government in the state have been losing excessive amount of revenue through the non payment of royalties, VAT, tenement rates, land use charges, PAYEE etc”.
Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed optimism that “the Honorable Minister of State is in a position to appreciate our concerns and expectations regarding these issues” and “will use your good office to address the said issues promptly and satisfactorily for the benefit of the nation”.
Earlier in his speech, Hon. Bwari congratulated Gov. Ugwuanyi on his reelection and eulogized his leadership qualities as “a gentleman par excellence whom we worked together very well and closely in the National Assembly”, saying that he was not surprised by the overwhelming love and support the people of Enugu State have extended to him.
The Minister, who informed the governor that he was in Enugu for 53rd Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS), reminded him that “Enugu story cannot be completed without mentioning of mining”, stressing: “Mining is Enugu and Enugu is mining”.
While expressing delight with collaborations between states and federal government in the industry, the Minister disclosed that “we are encouraging states to set up special purpose vehicles”, where “they can form their own company, acquire licenses, go into mining, either on their own or partnership with other agencies”.
Enugu Govt orders closure of unauthorized sewage dump site at Ugwuaji
Consequent upon the video clip trending in the social media over a sewage dump site at Ugwuaji, in Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, which was described by the presenter as “a site the tanker drivers said was designated to them by the state government”, a team from the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources, led by my humble self, as the Commissioner, paid an unscheduled visit to the site and discovered the following:
1. That the sewage site in the said video was not the property of the Enugu State Government neither was it designated to the tanker drivers by the state government as was erroneously alleged.
2. The tanker drivers we met on ground disposing sewage confirmed the above, and disclosed that it was the people of Ugwuaji community that gave them the site to be dumping sewage, on commercial purposes.
3. The Ugwuaji community through the Vice Chairman of the committee in charge of the site, Mr. Chukwudi Edeh, also confirmed that they allocated the area to the tanker drivers for disposal of sewage on commercial basis.
4. That both the tanker drivers and the community frowned at the false impression created by the makers of the video that the dump site was connected to a river, stating that there is no such river around the vicinity and added that the area is still virgin as people were not residing anywhere close to it.
From the representations made by the tanker drivers and Ugwuaji community, it is clearly established that the activities of both parties at the said site were unauthorized by any agency of the government but a mutual agreement between them.
Consequently, we order the closure of the sewage dump site with immediate effect and request the affected persons to channel their sewage to the government approved sewage site at the Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA) dump site, Enugu.
We, therefore, reassure residents of the state of government’s commitment to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Signed:
Prince Emeka Mamah
Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources
Fallout of the 55th Birthday Anniversary of a humble, caring and God-fearing leader...
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State and Governor-Elect, shortly after meeting with members of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in the Government House, visited the elderly and orphanages at the Home for the Elderly, Little Sisters of the Poor, Enugu and Nigerian Red Cross, by Ogbete Main Market, respectively, where he celebrated with them in thanksgiving to God for His goodness, mercies and kindness.
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God. #amokelouis
The good news about Enugu State under the watch of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is that, since the governor entrusted the state to the hands of God, the goodness of God has continued to be made manifest in its affairs, to the delight of the people.
Born on March 20, 1964, Gov. Ugwuanyi, today, clocks 55, to the glory of God. Inaugurated as the third civilian governor of the new Enugu State on May 29, 2015, Ugwuanyi, on Saturday, March 9, 2019, was overwhelmingly re-elected in one of the most peaceful, transparent and credible elections in the history of the state.
The most amazing aspect of the entire scenario was that the governor’s resounding victory in this month of March coincided with his 55th birthday, which calls for double celebrations in thanksgiving to God for his mercies and kindness to a man of faith and goodwill.
Though his overwhelming victory and that of all other candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state did not come to many as a surprise, especially those who are informed about the political antecedents of Enugu State, as well as the governor’s sterling performance and swelling popularity in the state, the hidden truth remains that Gov. Ugwuanyi won his reelection the day he had his first interaction with journalists, a few days after his inauguration in 2015.
On that fateful day, Gov. Ugwuanyi stated clearly that his administration would work hard to ensure peace in the state as a recipe for progress and rapid development. The peace-loving governor pledged not to engage in any act that would undermine the relationship between his administration and the past ones, vis-à-vis himself and past leaders of the state.
He promised to unite the leaders of the state and accord them due respect, irrespective of political affiliations, stressing that “everybody is our friend and the era of politics of bitterness is over.”
That strange resolution, which Gov. Ugwuanyi religiously adhered to, no doubt, contributed immensely to the overwhelming support and endorsement he enjoyed from the people of the state from all spheres of society and across party lines prior to the general election, as well as his landslide victory at the polls.
The governor’s decision became one of his greatest assets and a rallying point for prominent leaders from all walks of life, such as the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, former governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, Senator Fidelis Okoro, Senator Hyde Onuaguluchi, and Ambassador (Mrs.) Justina Eze, to endorse and campaign vigorously for his reelection.
For instance, at the grand finale of the governor’s door-to-door campaign, held at Udenu Local Government Area headquarters ahead of the just-concluded governorship and state assembly elections, some of these leaders eulogised him for entrenching peace, tranquility and good governance in a manner that has never been experienced before in the history of Enugu State.
They described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a man of history, expressing delight that he has united everybody in the state, irrespective of political leanings. The leaders told him that the culture of peace and good governance he has entrenched in the state was unprecedented and would earn him a landslide victory at the polls.
The party stalwarts added that his pre-election adoption by 70 political parties in Enugu State as their consensus candidate was an affirmation that the governor has united everybody in the state.
While Senator Ekweremadu disclosed “there is no bickering or quarrels among the political leaders in the state,” Senator Nwobodo, who described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a son, thanked him “for bringing everybody together.”
According to Senator Onuaguluchi, “Gov. Ugwuanyi has brought uncommon peace to the state” and “all of us have come to learn from Gburugburu (Ugwuanyi).” Senator Okoro pointed out that “we have not seen his type before” and Ambassador Eze joined others in urging the people to vote massively for him and other candidates of the PDP.
Shortly after the March 9 election, which was adjudged the most peaceful, freest and credible by the Independent National Electoral Commission-accredited local and foreign observers, 70 political parties and leaders of the state, among others, and the coalition of governorship candidates in the state, led by Gerald Abonyi of Labour Party (LP), congratulated Gov. Ugwuanyi, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the exercise and pledged to support his administration.
Basking in the euphoria of the well-deserved victory, support groups and people from various local government areas have continued to troop to Government House, Enugu, to equally congratulate the governor.
On the day the people of Igbo-Eze North LGA paid him a congratulatory visit, the peace-loving governor appealed to members of his political party to be magnanimous in victory by promoting peace and unity and showing love to one another, irrespective of party affiliations. He stated that “now the election is over, politicians in the state should invoke their Christian faith, go back and unite with their perceived enemies, show love to them so that the prevailing peace for which Enugu State is known will be adequately sustained.”
Prior to this, Ugwuanyi, as a humble and appreciative leader, had shortly after the victory returned to the markets and streets to say “thank you” to the people for reelecting him as their governor. It would be recalled that the governor and his party, the PDP, unlike other political parties, embarked on an intense door-to-door campaign in the markets and streets of the state, canvassing vigorously for votes.
It was, therefore, a heartwarming experience for residents, petty traders, barrow-pushers and marketmen and women, among others, seeing their governor at their doorstep, coming to say “thank you” for reelecting him into office.
Gov. Ugwuanyi had earlier in his acceptance speech expressed gratitude to God and thanked the people of the state for their overwhelming support in renewing his mandate.
Accepting the mandate, the governor stated that “this victory does not belong to me alone, it belongs to Ndi Enugu – our political leaders and other stakeholders, irrespective of party affiliations, the marketmen and women, the barrow-pushers, taxi and commercial bus drivers, okada and keke riders, petty traders, other artisans, town union and community leaders, the clergy, our revered traditional rulers, civil servants, farmers, the professional class, youth and women groups, students and others who are the true heroes of our democracy.”
He told the people of the state that he was “deeply humbled that you have, once again, invested your trust and faith in our team,” saying that it is now for him and his deputy and running mate, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo “to continue to work for you”.
Ugwuanyi pledged that his administration would devote energy and time to work harder for the wellbeing and prosperity of the people, stressing that “we are open to new ideas and new visions, as we continue to lay the solid foundation for a more prosperous Enugu State”.
According to him, “I hereby reaffirm that we will continue to serve you with the fear of God, with humility and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our people and lifting the state to unprecedented heights of development and progress.”
The governor also expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for “his exemplary leadership and for providing the enabling environment that ensured the peaceful conduct of elections in our state.”
He equally saluted the INEC “for a job well done and for keeping alive the dream of a brighter democracy.”
Furthermore, he said: “We are equally grateful to the Nigerian security agencies and the independent observers who ensured that we had peaceful processes at the polls.”
To his fellow party leaders, members and teeming supporters, Gov. Ugwuanyi thanked them for “the wonderful job that you all did,” saying: “I am very proud of your contributions.”
Extending his hand of fellowship to other contestants he added: “In truth, the victory is not a winner-takes-all. In our spirit of brotherhood, everyone is a winner. Therefore, I reach out my hand of friendship and partnership to my fellow contestants. I invite all of you to join hands with me so that, together, we shall build a better Enugu State, to the glory of God.
Re-committing himself to the service of God and the state, Gov. Ugwuanyi declared: “Now is the time to get back to work. We are inspired by the sacrifices and support of our people in renewing our mandate. I am confident that, by the special grace of God and with your continuing cooperation and prayers, all things concerning Enugu State will continue to end in praise”.
On the significance of today’s birthday celebration, the time-honoured occasion reinvigorates the governor’s commitment to peace, charity and almsgiving, a constant moral obligation in appreciation of God’s goodness and amazing grace to him as “Nwaogbenye.”
The anniversary offers him, 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 society with all sense of divinity and benevolence.
It re-echoes his disposition towards alleviating the suffering of the people as the nexus between him and God. It also re-echoes his long-held appeal that those who intended to offer him birthday gifts should “channel them to charity homes and orphanages in appreciation of God’s mercies and kindness” and “in the spirit of the Lenten season.”
This, one believes, is the best way to celebrate the governor’s resounding victory at the polls, appreciate God‘s abundant blessings upon him and his family’s life, as well as pray fervently for continued peace and progress of Enugu State, as he strives to render more selfless service in realisation of the dreams of the state’s founding fathers.
Following the successful conclusion of the general election in Enugu State and the overwhelming victory recorded by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has appealed to members of his political party to promote peace and unity and show love to one another irrespective of party affiliations.
Gov. Ugwuanyi stated that now the election is over, politicians in the state should invoke their Christian faith, go back and unite with their perceived enemies, show love to them, so that the prevailing peace for which Enugu State is known will be adequately sustained.
The governor, who spoke when the jubilant people of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area paid him a congratulatory visit at the Government House, Enugu on his reelection, said: “As the father of Enugu State, I want peace, I want unity, we have handed everything over to God, the election is over and it has ended in praise”.
Promising to continue to serve with the fear of God, Gov. Ugwuanyi added: “As Enugu State is known for peace, I would want this peace to endure. I want Enugu State to remain a reference point for peace so that we can make rapid progress and get what is due to us”.
Gov. Ugwuanyi who thanked the people of Igbo-Eze North LGA for their overwhelming support during the elections, asked God to bless them, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to continue to advance the cause of development in the area to improve their living standard.
Earlier, the council chairman, Comrade Uwakwe Ezeja told the governor that they came in their numbers to thank God and congratulate him on his resounding victory at the polls, and reiterated their unalloyed support and loyalty to his administration.
In his speech, the Patron, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Igwe Simeon Okosisi Itodo of Essodo Kingdom, Aji, Igbo-Eze North L.GA, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the development projects his administration has attracted to their area, pointing out that the massive votes the people had given the governor was as a result of the love they have for him.
“Your smooth victory shows that God is behind you. It also shows that our people agreed to follow you till the end”, he said.
Other speakers, namely, the Enugu North Zonal Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nze Michael Onyeze; the House of Representatives-Elect, Igbo-Eze North/ Udenu Federal Constituency, Engr. Simon Atigwe; Deputy Chief Whip, Enugu State House of Assembly and Member-Elect, Igbo-Eze North I Constituency, Hon. Ethel Ugwuanyi; and the Member-Elect, Igbo-Eze North II Constituency, Hon. Innocent Ugwu, all applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi’s uncommon leadership style and his giant strides in their area and beyond, saying: “We are with you for life, we will not disappoint you”.
One of the leading opposition political parties in Enugu State, The United Progressive Party (UPP), has joined the league of 70 other political parties and groups in congratulating Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi on his reelection as the governor of the state.
In a congratulatory message signed on behalf of the UPP by its State Chairman, Ken Onyekaonwu, which was presented to Gov. Ugwuanyi when members of the state and national leadership paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Enugu, the party told the governor that “your reelection was well deserved having spent the last four years of your life laboring hard to move Enugu State to an enviable height”.
Acknowledging that Gov. Ugwuanyi “toured the length and breadth of the state campaigning”, the UPP pointed out that “it is obvious that if indeed you have failed the people of Enugu State, they would certainly not have renewed your mandate as their governor”, stressing that “this however, well explains why your victory at the polls could be described as well deserved”.
“Your Excellency, a cycle has just been concluded, and our people have spoken through the inherent opportunity presented thereby, and their voice was made manifest in their support and votes to reelect you as the governor of our dear state for the next four years. May the good Lord guide and grant you the necessary wisdom and ability as you steer the ship of governance in our dear state for the next four years”, it stated.
Members of the delegation include the National Treasurer, Chief Flint Obiekwe, the Assistant National Secretary, Chief Don Nwabueze, the National Admin Officer, Chief David Ukeje and the Zonal Secretary, South East, Chief Nzeanochie Iweka, among others.
In a related development, the people of Nsukka Local Government Area leveraging on the euphoria of being the local government area in Enugu State that delivered the highest number of votes to Gov. Ugwuanyi in the just concluded election were also at the Government House, Enugu to congratulate him.
Led by the council chairman, Hon. Patrick Omeje, the jubilant people of the area who came in their numbers, thanked God for the governor’s resounding victory at the polls, stating that it did not come to them as a surprise.
Speaking, Hon. Omeje attributed the governor’s landslide victory to his sterling leadership qualities and remarkable achievements that have positively touched the lives of the people.
His words: “Your Excellency, your victory is not surprising because you are a marketable product. Your enviable achievements in Enugu State in the past three and half years speak volumes and cut across all segments of the society. Even before the election was conducted, people had concluded that you have already won; that you have no opposition as far as Enugu State was concerned”.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Housing and Director-General, Gov. Ugwuanyi Campaign Organization, Nsukka L.G.A, Barr. Peter Okonkwo, maintained that the governor’s overwhelming victory at the polls was “a testimony to the selfless service of staying late here for almost four years” to address issues concerning the state. “Your overwhelming victory has vindicated that sacrifice”, he said.
Justifying Ugwuanyi’s victory, he said: “Your Excellency, your victory, overwhelming in nature, is a testimony to what you did in Amurri in Nkanuland; what you did from Opi junction to Ime Nsukka; what you did to Oji River linking Anambra State. I am talking of areas which hitherto never experienced any form of infrastructure. Your overwhelming victory vindicated it.
Barr. Okonkwo while describing Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a good product that sells itself” commended him for his administration’s peace and grassroots development programmes that have brought rapid progress and opened up the rural areas through access mobility.
Other speakers at the event include the member, representing Nsukka East Constitu
Today, the Governor of Enugu State and Governor-Elect, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, returned to the markets and streets of Enugu to appreciate GOD and say THANK YOU to the people of the state for their overwhelming support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidates at the just concluded elections.
The people’s governor, who was accompanied by his deputy and Deputy Governor-Elect, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; State Chairman of PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani; Director-General of the Campaign Organization, Dr. Charles Egumgbe; Secretary of the Organization, Chief Ikeje Asogwa and Chairmen of the council areas visited, among others, were at Eke Otu Market, Amechi Awkunanaw; Garki Market; Mayor Market by Agbani Road; Timber/Kenyatta Market; Ogbete Main Market; Aria New Market; Abakpa Market; Orie Emene Market and Eke Obinagu junction.
Addressing the excited traders and residents, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who had in the background some colorful posters with inscription: “Thank You Ndi Enugu” said: “The first is for all of us to say Thank You to our God. The second is for us to say to you Thank You for the overwhelming votes you gave us during the elections. When we came here during our campaign, we asked for your votes and you voted for us. We have come to say to you Thank You and also seek your prayers so that the next four years will be peaceful and successful. We will continue to serve you with the fear of God. Thank you and God bless”.
It was indeed, a heartwarming experience for the traders and residents of Enugu seeing their governor at their doorstep coming to say “Thank You” for renewing his mandate to continue leading them for the next four years.
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God, for it has indeed ended in praise. #amokelouis
The Executive Committee of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers on Wednesday congratulated Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on his re-election during last Saturday’s Governorship election in the state.
In the same vein, the workers of Enugu State through the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) also congratulated Gov. Ugwuanyi for his “well-deserved landslide victory” at the polls, stating that the “jubilatory election is a true representation of the wishes of the entire Enugu State Workers”.
The royal fathers, who briefed newsmen through the Chairman of the Committee, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe (Obi of Onitsha), shortly after they paid Gov. Ugwuanyi a courtesy visit at the Government House, Enugu, said they “join the people of Enugu State in thanking God for the peaceful elections that took place in the state”.
Igwe Achebe added that the resounding victory Gov. Ugwuanyi recorded at the polls was a re-affirmation of the confidence the people of Enugu State reposed in him “by giving him the mandate to lead them for another four years”.
He stated that the victory “shows that his previous four years was done very well”, saying: “We thank God for that and hope that he will build on his achievements in the last four years to give him room for stronger days in the next four years”.
The committee chairman disclosed that the traditional rulers were in Enugu for their quarterly meeting where they deliberated and took decisions on issues of great importance to the people of the zone and Nigeria. He thanked the governor for his hospitality and other necessary support he provided towards the successful hosting of the event.
The Obi of Onitsha also expressed gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi and other South East Governors for their leadership role in closing the “little gap in communication” that had existed among the traditional rulers, in the interest of South East.
The Enugu State workers in a congratulatory message by the Chairman and Secretary of TUC, Comrade Igbokwe Chukwuma Igbokwe and Comrade Benneth Asogwa, maintained that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s victory “speaks volumes of your good works in Enugu State”.
The body told the governor that “your administration will continue to put smile on the faces of Enugu State workers as you will do more to improve the welfare of workers in the state”.
The workers, therefore, prayed God to continue to bestow the governor with “His Divine Wisdom and strengthen you as you carry out this onerous task of governing Enugu State”.
…………as 70 political parties adjudge guber poll as peaceful, credible
Members of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)-accredited local and foreign Observers and Congress of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria, who monitored the March 9 Governorship and House of Assembly Elections in Enugu State, have called on “the Federal Government, Securities Agencies, the International Community and Human Rights Organizations” to investigate and take action on “the brutal attack and assault on our colleagues (observers) in Umuida, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, Enugu State by supporters of a candidate”.
It was recently reported by members of Global Policy Advocate and Leadership Initiative, accredited by INEC as observers, that they were brutally attacked and humiliated by “thugs” at the residence of Senator Ayogu Eze of the All Progressives Congress (APC), when they paid him a visit to verify his alleged boycott of the election.
As a result of the injury sustained from the attack, it was also reported that the leader of the Team, Amaka Offor, fell seriously sick and fainted just a few meters away from the Enugu Police Command, immediately they were granted bail.
Reacting to the development, the independent observers, who were represented by their group leaders, namely, Amb. Samuel A. Onoja, Amb. Moses Ebahor, Rtn. Titus A. Alagba, Comr. Chidi Chielo and Hon. Kingsley Muogo, while briefing newsmen on the outcome of last Saturday’s elections in Enugu State, strongly condemned the heinous act “in its entirety”, disclosing that the incident “would have led to the death of our colleagues, who were exercising their legitimate duty”.
“We, therefore, call on the federal government, security agencies, the international community and human rights organizations to intervene and investigate the unfortunate incident”, the observers declared.
They described the governorship and state assembly elections in Enugu State as “very peaceful, free and fair, and highly commendable”, and went further to commend INEC, security agencies and the state government for providing a level playing ground and security “during and after the elections, as there was no issue of violence recorded in any of the polling booths”.
In a related development, 70 political parties in Enugu State under the auspices of Coalition of Registered Political Parties CRPP) during a post-election briefing on the outcome of the governorship and House of Assembly elections, debunked the allegation by The United Democratic Party (UDP) in the state that the exercise was fraught with irregularities.
The coalition, which comprised 40 out of the 42 political parties that participated in the governorship election in Enugu State, stated that there was no iota of truth in the allegation, stressing that “INEC performed excellently in the conduct of the election”.
According to them, “the allegation by one of the political parties, the United Democratic Party (UDP) that there were irregularities during the election is not true; it is totally false and baseless. The governorship election as adjudged by the 70 political parties in Enugu State is the most peaceful, free and fair election that has been conducted in the state”.
The 70 political parties maintained that the exercise was “very peaceful and meets the threshold of international best practices of democratic elections”, disclosing that “the peaceful political environment before, during and after the election was possible due to the peace and security architecture put in place by the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi”.
The coalition, therefore, congratulated Gov. Ugwuanyi for “his well-deserved landslide victory” and appealed to other contestants to join hands with him to move Enugu State “to a higher level of progress and advancement”.
The coalition of governorship candidates in the state led by Gerald Abonyi of Labour Party (LP), yesterday paid Gov. Ugwuanyi a congratulatory visit at the Government House, Enugu where they expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the election and pledged to support his administration.
ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY THE GOVERNOR OF ENUGU STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. IFEANYI UGWUANYI (GBURUGBURU) FOLLOWING HIS VICTORY IN THE MARCH 9, 2019 GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION
PROTOCOLS
Ndi Enugu,
Enugu State is, truly, in the hands of God and in all that we do, we give God due glory, honour and adoration, for He is, indeed, a faithful God.
It is with a heart full of joy and thanksgiving that we exalt the Almighty God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob and the awesome God of David for the resounding victory that He granted us in the March 9 governorship and House of Assembly elections in Enugu State.
Therefore, with utmost gratitude and humility, I wholeheartedly accept the mandate that you, the good people of Enugu State have, again, bestowed on me. This victory does not belong to me alone. It belongs to Ndi Enugu – our political leaders and other stakeholders irrespective of party affiliations; the market men and women, the barrow pushers, taxi and commercial bus drivers, Okada and Keke riders, petty traders, other artisans, town union and community leaders, the clergy, our revered traditional rulers, civil servants, the farmers, the professional class, youth and women groups, students and others who are the true heroes of our democracy.
And so, to you, Ndi Enugu, I am deeply humbled that you have, once again, invested your trust and faith in our team. It is now for me and my able Deputy, Her Excellency, Lolo Cecilia Ezeilo to continue to work for you.
In truth, the victory is not a winner-takes-all. In our spirit of brotherhood, everyone is a winner. Therefore, I reach out my hand of friendship and partnership to my fellow contestants. I invite all of you to join hands with me so that together, we shall build a better Enugu State, to the glory of God.
I want to put on record our gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) for his exemplary leadership and for providing the enabling environment that ensured the peaceful conduct of elections in our State.
I also salute the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for a job well done and for keeping alive the dream of a brighter democracy. We are equally grateful to the Nigerian security agencies and the independent observers who ensured that we had peaceful processes at the polls.
To the leadership and entire membership of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), our campaign team and the support groups, I hereby express my gratitude for the wonderful job that you all did. I am very proud of your contributions.
Today, we pledge to devote our energies and time to work harder for the wellbeing and prosperity of all our people. We are open to new ideas and new visions, as we continue to lay the solid foundation for a more prosperous Enugu State.
I hereby reaffirm that we will continue to serve you with the fear of God, with humility and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our people and lifting the State to unprecedented heights of development and progress.
Now is the time to get back to work. We are inspired by the sacrifices and support of our people in renewing our mandate. I am confident that by the special grace of God and with your continuing cooperation and prayers, all things concerning Enugu State will continue to end in praise.
Thank you all and may God continue to bless you and prosper Enugu State, in Jesus Name. Amen.
…Extends hand of friendship as fellow contestants congratulate him
Following his landslide victory at the March 9 governorship election, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State and Governor-Elect, has expressed gratitude to God and thanked the people of the state for their overwhelming support in renewing his mandate.
This came as a coalition of governorship candidates in the state led by Gerald Abonyi of Labour Party (LP), paid him a congratulatory visit at the Government House, Enugu and declared that they were satisfied with the outcome of the election.
In his acceptance speech, Gov. Ugwuanyi told the people of Enugu State that he was “deeply humbled that you have, once again, invested your trust and faith in our team”, adding that it is now for him and his deputy and running mate, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo “to continue to work for you”.
Accepting the mandate, the governor pledged that his administration will devote energies and time to work harder for the wellbeing and prosperity of the people, stressing that “we are open to new ideas and new visions, as we continue to lay the solid foundation for a more prosperous Enugu State”.
According to him, “I hereby reaffirm that we will continue to serve you with the fear of God, with humility and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our people and lifting the State to unprecedented heights of development and progress”.
Gov. Ugwuanyi also expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for “his exemplary leadership and for providing the enabling environment that ensured the peaceful conduct of elections in our State”.
He equally saluted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) “for a job well done and for keeping alive the dream of a brighter democracy”, stating that “we are equally grateful to the Nigerian security agencies and the independent observers who ensured that we had peaceful processes at the polls”.
To his fellow party leaders, members and teeming supporters, Gov. Ugwuanyi thanked them for “the wonderful job that you all did”, saying: “I am very proud of your contributions”.
His words: “This victory does not belong to me alone. It belongs to Ndi Enugu - our political leaders and other stakeholders irrespective of party affiliations; the market men and women, the barrow pushers, taxi and commercial bus drivers, Okada and Keke riders, petty traders, other artisans, town union and community leaders, the clergy, our revered traditional rulers, civil servants, the farmers, the professional class, youth and women groups, students and others who are the true heroes of our democracy.
“In truth, the victory is not a winner-takes-all. In our spirit of brotherhood, everyone is a winner. Therefore, I reach out my hand of friendship and partnership to my fellow contestants. I invite all of you to join hands with me so that together, we shall build a better Enugu State, to the glory of God.
“Now is the time to get back to work. We are inspired by the sacrifices and support of our people in renewing our mandate. I am confident that by the special grace of God and with your continuing cooperation and prayers, all things concerning Enugu State will continue to end in praise”.
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God! #amokelouis
On Saturday, 9th March, 2019, I, Adegoke Olajide was declared elected as the next representative of the good people of Efon constituency in the Ekiti State House of Assembly and I hereby, wish to express my sincere gratitude to all Efons for the confidence reposed in me by sending me to Ado Ekiti to go and serve our dear community and indeed the entire Ekiti State. Let it be known that I intend to undertake this serious assignment with the greatest sense of responsibility and diligence which I can muster and I am trusting the Almighty God to grant me the divine enablement not to disappoint you all. As your eyes, ears and voice in the State House of Assembly, I would do all within my capacity to ensure improved infrastructural and socio economic development of this constituency. I will be a servant representative who will strive to facilitate steady improvement in the standard of living of our people by drawing government attention to strategic areas of needs through innovative but effective representation. I will remain committed to productive engagement of youths and women in particular to achieve sustainable economic transformation for them because of their significant roles in building a sustainable economy and maintaining a stable polity.
There is no doubt that the contest for the office was tough and at times intemperate and schismatic especially on the social media, I however want to commend the comportment, tenacity and courage of my contemporaries who contested for this office right from the primary stage within all the political parties to my opponent in the general election, my brother, Otunba Lekan Akinyele. I urge all of them not to relent in their commitment to the advancement of our dear Efon Alaaye because that is a cause which must be beyond partisan politics or elective office. It is a task for all Efons at home and in the diaspora. This is why I adopted a campaign motto which said: “Together we can restore our values.” I also want to urge all supporters of APC and PDP to be guided by the fact that the two of us who contested the general election do not support violence. After all, Efon is one and we Efon people are all interconnected in one way or the other. Harassing and attacking ourselves does not serve the collective interest of Efon but only breeds a cycle of bitterness which will continue to fester.
In conclusion, I urged all Efon people to continue to support the Dr. Kayode Fayemi led administration which has within such a short time proved that an all-inclusive, respectable and glorious Ekiti State is achievable.
The visibly traumatised Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accredited observers during Saturday’s governorship and state assembly elections in Enugu State have narrated their ordeals at the residence of Senator Ayogu Eze, the guber candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Observers say they had paid a visit to verify his alleged boycott of the election.
The observers, who introduced themselves as members of Global Policy Advocate and Leadership Initiative said they narrowly escaped death during the unfortunate attack on them, despite all the efforts they made to identify themselves before the angry supporters of Senator Eze, numbering over seven hundred.
Speaking to journalists shortly after they were rescued by the police and brought to Enugu from Enugu-Ezike, where the ensuing fracas claimed one life, the group thanked God for sparing their lives.
Resulting from the injury sustained from the attack, the leader of the Team, Amaka Offor, felt seriously sick and fainted just a few meters away from the Enugu Police Command headquarters, immediately they were granted bail.
She could not narrative her experience.
It would be recalled that an incident at the residence of Senator Eze, claimed the life of a 30-year-old man.
Speaking on the incident, the observers alleged that they escaped death by the whiskers.
One of the leaders of the the team, Mr. Frank Ohazulike, said but for the prompt response of security operatives, they would have either been lynched or burnt alive.
Ohazulike, who gave graphic details of the incident, further stated that it was cruel for anyone to have claimed that they were Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, thugs.
He narrated their experience thus:
“We’re independent domestic observers, a team from Global Policy Advocate and Leadership Initiative.
“This is an organization accredited by the INEC. We’re the 50th group that was accredited to monitor this election, hence we came down here to Enugu to monitor this process.
“We came here and in the process of going for electoral observation, our car broke down. We then looked for an alternative means to move around. Luckily for us, we approached a friend that works in the Government House and he obliged to give us a bus so we could use it to move around.
“At a point, we got a call that Senator Ayogu Eze, the APC guber candidate had allegedly boycotted the election. So, we decided to visit his home at Umuida in Enugu Ezike in order to get our facts and figures right so that we would be able to ascertain the correct information to give to the outside world when writing our reports.
“So, when we got to Senator Ayogu Ezeh’s residence, we requested to see him. We also met some media people there while other observers were coming out from the place. We requested to know if it was, indeed, true as it was being alleged that he had threathened to boycott the exercise. Some people alleged that it was because of the removal of his name from INEC list whereas others claimed that they knew that the PDP would compromise the processes. They told us that he was busy inside and would not come out.
“So, as we were driving out of his compound, one man accosted us and asked us where we were coming out from and our mission there. We explained to him and even showed him our ID cards. The man got enraged and asked us: ‘why would you people come to this place in a vehicle with a government number plate? We explained that we had an issue on the road and we had to get an assistance in that emergency situation.
“We told him that we didn’t see that as a problem because even when the presidenct visits non-PDP States, they give the entourage vehicles to move around. We explained to him that in the spirit of oneness, we can always get help to make sure that the electoral process is observed.
“Immediately, the man beckoned on all the thugs within the compound; they were more than 700 and they rushed to our vehicle, smashed the windscreens and other glasses in the vehicle. They even brought out one cap with an inscription ‘Gburus’ and they dropped it in the front of our car.
“Before we knew it, they started beating us. We were beaten to stupor; they threatened to get the ladies with us naked. If not for the timely intervention of the police, the DSS and the Army, it would have been a different thing. They asked them to stop beating us because we’re observers, that we were merely doing our job. Some of the thugs threatened to burn us inside the vehicle. They collected all our phones, our gadgets, our reports and other personal effects.
“At that point, the police now started shooting their guns apparently to harass and/or disperse them. Some of them still remained adamant. One of them was busy struggling for the gun with one of the mobile policemen.
“In the process, we now suddenly saw somebody lying in the pool of his own blood.
There was a lot of pandemonium. Senator Ayogu Eze now came down and called us, asked us what the problem was. When we told him, he apologized to us; he said that he felt bad over what had happened to us. He now pleaded with the police to escort us out of the place.
“The police took us from there to the police station in the area and finally to Enugu until now we were granted bail after police investigation confirmed our name in the list of observers with INEC.”
On the claims that they were PDP thugs, the INEC-accredited observer charged: “How can we be thugs; who is saying that? Didn’t they see our tags? We had nothing to do with the State Government; it was just on pure emergency that we sought assistance and got that bus from a friend. We actually had a vehicle which we had been using. So, we never had any contact with the State Government. We are observers, properly accredited by the INEC and we did identify ourselves as the 50th on that list.”
When asked to rate the conduct of the elections, Ohazulike said “the election was going on very smoothly until we had that incident which was not in a polling booth.
“So, there was no issue in Enugu apart from that isolated incident. If you ask me to rate the performance, I would say it was over 90 percent success on the part of the INEC, the security agencies and other stakeholders.”
[quote]Gov. Ugwuanyi coasts to victory as Observers, Nwodo, Nwobodo, Archbishop Chukwuma hail peaceful election
A coalition of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) - accredited foreign and local observers, and notable leaders in Enugu State have commended the successful conduct of Saturday’s governorship and House of Assembly elections in the state, describing the exercise as "peaceful, free and fair”.
This came as results trickling in from polling units across Enugu State indicate the state governor and governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and House of Assembly candidates of the party are coasting to victory as the PDP leads with wide margins.
Gov. Ugwuanyi who voted at exactly 9:35am, after trekking from his residence to the polling unit, said that “in all we do in Enugu State, we give God due glory, honour and adoration and by the special grace of God this election will end in praise”.
Speaking on behalf of the observers, shortly after Gov. Ugwuanyi cast his vote at his Amube Ward II Polling Unit, a foreign observer from Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO), Rotarian Titus A. Alagba, stated that the election was in conformity with the INEC rules and regulations, and thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for “providing the peaceful atmosphere for this free and fair election”.
Also speaking, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, who spoke to journalists after voting at his polling unit in Ukehe Ward I, disclsoded that the election “was very peaceful, very orderly and it typifies the peaceful character of our state.
The former governor of old Anambra State and chieftain of the PDP, Senator Jim Nwobodo added that the exercise “has been peaceful”. Senator Nwobodo, who expressed optimism that “PDP will win with a landslide in Enugu State”, saying: “After the result of the last election. If you can see there is no other party here. It is just PDP all through”.
Applauding Gov. Ugwuanyi for the peaceful atmosphere in the state, the elder statesman, who was accompanied to his polling unit by his wife, Pat, said: “This governor is a man of peace and because he is a man of peace, there is peace everywhere in this election. So, I think it will end in praise”.
On his part, the Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, (Anglican Communion) Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuma, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi, INEC and the security agencies for the peaceful conduct of the exercise, maintaining it was “orderly, very much peaceful, free and fair”.
The cleric equally lauded Gov. Ugwuanyi “for the way he has been able to hold Enugu State peacefully without discrimination, no party in Enugu will say that probably the ruling party has suppressed them at all”.
According to him, “it is a matter of everybody knowing that Enugu State is a place the governor has given everyone serious playing ground to play politics”.
March 9 elections will end in Praise, for Enugu State is truly in the hands of God!. #amokelouis
2019 Governorship and House of Assembly Elections:
Enugu State Governor and governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi votes at his Amube Ward II Polling Unit, Ohom Orba, Udenu Local Government Area, as foreign observers describe the exercise in the state as "peaceful, free and fair", commending the governor for the landmark feat.
In his brief remark, Gov. Ugwuanyi said that "in all we do in Enugu State, we give God due glory, honour and adoration and by the special grace of God this election will end in Praise".
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God! #amokelouis
A coalition of House of Assembly candidates on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, have dissociated themselves from the call for the postponement of tomorrow’s governorship and state assembly elections in the state, declaring that they “are ready for the election on Saturday as scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)”.
DAILY POST reports that the APC chairman, Barr. Ben Nwoye had on Thursday demanded the postponement of the exercise.
But in a terse statement signed by the group’s coordinator, Barr. Val Ikpa, the APC’s House of Assembly candidates, commended the state’s Resident Electoral Commission (REC), Emeka Ononamadu, and INEC “for their transparency in the preparation for the elections”.
Ikpa is the party’s candidate for Enugu East Urban Constituency.
They therefore, urged their teeming supporters to disregard such call and come out en masse to exercise their civic responsibility and avoid any act capable of jeopardizing peace in the state.
“We appeal to the APC leadership in Enugu State to release due logistics to candidates to enable them perfect their own side of obligation without delay”, the group stated.
Ahead of the March 9, 2019 governorship and state assembly elections, the Enugu State Government has declared Friday, March 8 public holiday.
In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Gabriel Ajah, dated March 7, the state government said that "banks, other financial and health institutions are exempted from this public holiday".
Dr. Ajah further explained that the decision was "to enable the public servants and other residents of the state to travel to their respective registration wards and exercise their civic responsibility of casting their votes during the Gubernatorial and House of Assembly Elections holding on Saturday, March 9, 2019".
Truly, Enugu State is in the hands of God! #amokelouis
Enugu – No fewer than 70 political parties in Enugu state on Thursday rejected the call for the removal of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Dr. Emeka Ononamadu. Chief Afam Ani, the Public Relations Officer of the group, said this at a press conference in Enugu, adding that the parties passed a vote of confidence on the REC.
He said that the parties, operating under the aegis of the Coalition of Registered Political Parties, agreed that elections must go on in the state on Saturday. He said that the group disapproved of the call by the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the removal of the REC and a shift in the election on account of the allegations of bias and compromise against the REC.
He said that the group considered the allegations false and baseless. According to Ani, the group warned political parties not to disrupt the smooth electoral process in the state because of their internal wrangling.
He said that “no single party has the power to determine whether an election should hold or not in any state,” describing Enugu as the most peaceful state in the country.
He also described Ononamadu as the most friendly REC to ever work in the state. He said: “We have witnessed the coming and going of RECs in Enugu state. This one has discharged his duty in line with the provisions of the constitution.
“He should not be removed because he has not done anything contrary to the provisions of the constitution to warrant his removal.
The group insisted that the election must go on as scheduled.’
NAN reports that APC, led by its Chairman, Dr. Ben Nwoye, embarked on a peaceful protest in INEC headquarters, Enugu earlier in the day to demand the postponement of the polls in Enugu state. Nwoye threatened that APC would not allow elections to hold in the date, until their fears had been addressed. (NAN)
Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign train on Wednesday returned to markets and streets of Enugu canvassing for votes ahead of March 9 governorship and state assembly elections, amid jubilation and excitement from teeming supporters and admirers.
The PDP governorship candidate, who was accompanied by his deputy and running mate, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, State PDP Chairman, Hon. Augustine Nnamani, Speaker of the House of Assembly and PDP candidate for Enugu East Urban Constituency, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, Director-General, PDP Campaign Organisation, Dr. Charles Egumgbe, the House of Respresentatives Member-Elect for Enugu East/ Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, Prince Conelius Nnaji, the party's candidate for Enugu East Rural Constituency, Hon. Hilary Ugwu, among others, participated in the 11th draw of the second phase of the Enugu State Traders Empowerment Scheme held at Ogbete Main Market, Enugu, Abakpa Main Market and Eke Obinagu Emene Market.
The empowerment programme, which assists 200 genuine traders in the state who win the monthly raffle draw of N50,000 each to grow their various businesses, irrespective of state of origin, religion or ethnicity, was held simultaneously today across the 54 participating markets. 2,200 traders have so far benefited in the phase.
The exercise offered the governor and other stakeholders of the PDP ample opportunity to campaign vigorously and urge the people to troop out on March 9 to cast their votes for all the candidates of the party.
According to the people's governor, "we assure you that what we have been able to do so far is only the beginning as we remain fully committed to our promise to bring about the rapid and holistic development of Enugu State, to improve the standard of living of our people and to ensure that opportunities for growth and development are extended to every corner and to every class of the people in the state".
It was indeed a colourful and successful outing for the PDP in Enugu State as the visibly excited traders and supporters assured Gov. Ugwuanyi and other party's candidates of their votes at the polls.
March 9 elections will surely end in Praise, for Enugu State is truly in the hands of God! #amokelouis
Tinubu Tapes: How O To Ge was imposed on Kwarans by Tinubu
A leaked recording of Tinubu telling APC faithful’s about his influence in installing Rauf Aregbesola and Gboyega Oyetola as governors of Osun State has emerged. In his statement in the leaked tape, he stated that Osun people were angry with him for imposing Oyetola on him. He asked if there was anything wrong with installing a person who has learned well from him. Speculations from Ilorin, show that such sentiments play out in Kwara state, where the people feel that Abdulrazak Abdulrahman is Tinubu’s stooge.
There has been rumors of an alleged agreement of 2bn Kwara Taxation deal between Tinubu and Abdulrahman, once he becomes governor. Kwarans who spoke about Tinubu’s influence on the O To Ge movement, showed that they know about his influence on the Osun governorship and how Oyetola is his stooge. A certain Kwaran who was interviewed in Ilorin, who claimed anonymity, stated thus, “Omotoshe is the person Kwarans would have preferred, but Tinubu wanted AA and there is nothing they can do about it.”
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, in keeping with his administration's commitment and swift response to issues concerning the wellbeing of residents of the state, on Sunday visited victims of the fire outbreak that occured earlier in the day at Ezeagu Street, New Haven, Enugu, to empathize with them.
The people's governor, after assessing the level of damage caused by the inferno which affected two apartments, provided financial assistance and relief materials to the families and the landlady, and automatic employment to one of the victims whose Degree and NYSC Discharge certificates got burnt.
Responding on their behalf after receiving the cash donation from the Executive Secretary of Enugu State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mrs. Nkechi Eneh, the elated landlady, Mrs. Victoria Igwume, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for the kind gesture, disclosing that they were surprised by the governor's prompt visit and intervention.
Mrs. Igwume added that the governor's action shows he has a human face and has also gone a long way to distinguish his administration as a responsive government that is sensitive to the plight of the people.
Speaking on her contributions to the development of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Mrs. Igwume, said that she feel so humbled and happy that her efforts have been rewarded, and pledged to continue to work for the success of the governor and party at the polls.
Truly, Enugu State is in the Hands of God! #amokelouis
I think he spoke the truth and the mind of most Nigerians in regards to the expectation. New political parties will be one of the biggest losers because they might not be able to fund another set of deployment of party agents. These are parties who don't have a large purse like APC and PDP.
The PDP agent, Osita though was commending the INEC chairman unlike what PDP stalwarts were talking offline
Politics › Nurse’s Murder: Ugwuanyi Offers N5m To Anybody With Information On Killers by OEPHIUS(op): 7:19pm On Mar 29, 2019
