₦airaland Forum

With hearts filled with gratitude, the people of Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, led by the Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, converged on the Government House, Enugu, on Friday, to thank Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for his rare leadership role in the emergence of their illustrious son, Mbah, as the party’s flag bearer for the 2023 gubernatorial election.

The jubilant people of Nkanu East LGA, who were accompanied by the Clergy, Traditional Rulers, present and former public office holders from the council area such as the former Deputy Governor of the state, Bishop Ralph Nwoye, former Member of House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Anayo Edeh, the Member representing Nkanu East Constituency, Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor and the Council Chairman, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, told Gov. Ugwuanyi that he has wiped out their tears and given them a sense of belonging.

They also appreciated the governor for keeping faith with the principles of equity, justice and fairness in the zoning of the governorship position to Enugu East Senatorial District, down to Nkanu East LGA, stressing that the council area is the least developed in Enugu State.

The people pointed out that no amount of gratitude will equate the leadership role Gov. Ugwuanyi played in the emergence of Barr. Mbah, adding that the governor had, on several occasions after he assumed office in 2015, disclosed that Nkanu East was among the three LGAs in the state that were underdeveloped.

They equally thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his confidence in Barr. Mbah, who they described as a thorough bred, peaceful, humble, God fearing, intelligent, visionary and successful entrepreneur, with sound track record in both private and public dealings.

In their separate remarks, the Chairman of Nkanu East LGA, Hon. Edeh, the PDP LG Chairman, Prince Emeka Nwatu, the PDP Zonal Chairman, Enugu East Senatorial District, Hon. Nnamdi Nwafor, the Party State Youth Leader, Hon. Patrick Okoh, the Chairman, Nkanu East Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Igwe H.A. Edeani, former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Rita Mbah (who spoke on behalf of Nkanu East women), Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor, former Secretary to the State Government and PDP governorship aspirant, Dr. G.O.C Ajah and representatives of Nkanu East Consultative Forum, namely Rt. Hon. Anayo Edeh, Barr. B.C Nwobodo, HRH Igwe Okeke Arum and HRH Igwe Abel Nwobodo, all expressed profound gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for giving them a rare light through the emergence of their tested and trusted son as PDP governorship candidate, in the person of Barr. Mbah.

In an emotion laden voice, the Enugu State PDP governoship candidate, Barr. Mbah, told Gov. Ugwuanyi that “what occurred last month, precisely on the 25th of May, where you consciously and through you, we saw the emergence of a gubernatorial candidate from Nkanu East” has kept him trying to understand the concept of gratitude.

According to him, “We have dimensioned the word gratitude and it is still not enough to express our heartfelt appreciation.

“Your Excellency, in fact ordinary words cannot adequately capture the depth of our gratitude. One can only imagine what you had to endure.

“Your Excellency, our gifts here will not be enough to show you gratitude. We have simply come here with our sense of gratitude and from our hearts to tell you that we are bestowing on you the Sonship of Nkanu East.

“I want to thank you very much. I want to say that we are very grateful. Thank you and God bless you”.

Responding, Gov. Ugwuanyi who gave God all the glory, said that in actual truth, the people of Nkanu East LGA came for him and them to thank God who made everything possible.

The governor who used the opportunity to thank all the leaders and stakeholders of Enugu State and PDP for the successful Party primaries in the state, urged the people of Nkanu East to follow and pray fervently for Barr. Mbah, for God to do the rest.

He expressed optimism that Barr. Mbah will do well in office if elected as Governor of Enugu State, adding it is his prayer that the PDP governorship candidate does better than him, the way a father prays that his son does better than him.

Thanking God for remembering Nkanu East LGA, Gov. Ugwuanyi said that it is prayer answered, as he had prayed in the past that God will remember Nkanu East.

Present at the event include the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, the State Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Edeh, the Deputy Chairman of the council, Hon. Martins Ndubuisi Agbo, the PDP Candidate for Nkanu East Constituency, Hon. Okey Mbah, former Council Chairmen, among others.

The National Leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has expressed delight with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for his untiring commitment to the welfare of the pensioners of the state in spite of the state’s lean resources and the nation’s economic challenges.

Speaking when Gov. Ugwuanyi hosted him at the Government House, Enugu, following his emergence as the new National President of NUP, Comrade Godwin Ikechukwu Abumisi, who is an indigene of Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State and the first Igbo man to head the national leadership of NUP, described Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a pensioner and labour-friendly governor”.

Comrade Abumisi proudly disclosed that Gov. Ugwuanyi is not in their list of state governors who are not labour and pensioner-friendly when “the United Nation issued a circular to the Unions telling them to list the names of all politicians who are not labour and pensioner-friendly”.

According to him, “We have also listed the names of governors who are not paying pension and gratuity. I am so happy to inform you that our dear Governor (Ugwuanyi) and the government of Enugu State are not on that list”.

Comrade Abumisi, therefore, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his steadfastness, saying: “I want to say that I am very happy to associate with you. Having won the Presidency (NUP), we said it will be beautiful for us to come to Enugu and tell His Excellency that we have done so.

"We are here because this is the first time in our history, in the national history, in the history of the NUP, that it is our fortune to occupy the position of the National President of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners.

“The beauty of it all is that I am from Enugu State, from a little town known as Obeleagu Umana in Ezeagu LGA”.

On their part, the leaders of pensioners from Enugu State/South East Zone expressed profound gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi “for the compassionate love, respect and honour that you have meted to our extended pensioners in Enugu State”.

Speaking on their behalf, Comrade Dr. G.B Ugochukwu equally thanked the governor “for your labour/pensioner friendliness, regular payment of workers’ salaries, pension, security and infrastructural development in the state”, saying: “All these are possible because Enugu State is in the hands of God”.

Receiving Comrade Abumisi and his entourage, Gov. Ugwuanyi stated that it is heartwarming for an Enugu State indigene to occupy the exalted position of the National President of Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP).

The governor congratulated the New National President for attaining the enviable position, and prayed that he leads the Union with the fear of God as well as continue to provide the desired leadership for the benefit of millions of pensioners he represents.

On his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the state pensioners, Gov. Ugwuanyi represented by his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, placed on record that the government on assumption of office inherited a backlog of gratuity running into billions of naira.

“To mitigate this challenge, the present administration undertook to set aside the sum of N100 Million monthly to offset the backlog of gratuities dating back to 2009.

“A committee was put in place to ensure utmost transparency. However, with the coming of COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant global economic downturn, we had to temporarily put it on hold to ensure that salaries and pensions are paid”, he said.

The governor revealed that the Enugu State presently has 12,000 pensioners in the government’s payroll with a monthly wage bill of N630 million.

He added that Enugu is one of the few states in the country that keyed into the payment of the new National Minimum Wage with its consequential adjustments in 2020.

“This has doubled the wage bill of the state. The above notwithstanding, this administration has continued to pay salaries on or before the end of every month”, he added.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, therefore, reiterated the cordial working relationship between his administration and the state pensioners, assuring that “we shall continue to fulfill our obligations to the pensioners given the resources available to the state”.

In their separate goodwill messages, the State Chairmen of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Comrade Virginus Nwobodo and Comrade Bennett Asogwa, respectively, paid glowing tributes to Gov. Ugwuanyi for his sterling commitment to the welfare of the state workforce and pensioners.

The labour leaders thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for welcoming the new NUP National President to Enugu State.

They endorsed the verdict on Gov. Ugwuanyi by the National Leadership of NUP, maintaining that the governor is doing well for the workers and pensioners in spite of the state’s lean resources and nation’s challenges bordering on economy, security and public health.

According to the TUC State Chairman, Comrade Asogwa, “Your Excellency, I want to start by appreciating your efforts, the efforts of Enugu State government to better the lots of workers and retirees.

“We know that if you were not doing well, if you were not good to workers and the retirees, irrespective of the fact that the new National President of the NUP is from Enugu State, he would have not had any moral justification to come into Government House to present himself.

“He is associating himself with you because he knows that he can stand bold to say that you (Ugwuanyi) are doing well.

“I want to say it here that in Enugu State as labour leaders, we come out openly to say that the governor is doing well for the workers. There are so many states in Nigeria where no labour leader can dare mention that his governor is doing well”.

Present at the event include the State Head of Service, Ken Chukwuegbo, Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Hon. Uchechukwu Ogbonna, the Executive Secretary, Local Government Pensions Board, Barr. Nana Ogbodo, Wife of the new NUP National President, Mrs. Josephine Abumisi, members of the National, Zonal and State Executives of NUP, among others.

…Prays for his family, accelerated healing of their daughter

…Appreciates FG, NASS, Nigerians for their solidarity, support

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in Enugu State has expressed deep concern over the ordeal of the Senator representing Enugu West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Ike Ekweremadu and his wife, Mrs. Beatrice Nwanneka Ekweremadu, in the United Kingdom.

A statement by the Enugu State Government described Senator Ekweremadu as an illustrious son of the state and a foremost Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The statement disclosed that the government and the good people of Enugu State are saddened by the unpleasant news of arrest, arraignment and subsequent remand in custody of Senator Ekweremadu and his wife, Beatrice, in the United Kingdom.

It, therefore, conveyed the thoughts and prayers of Gov. Ugwuanyi and the people of the state to the entire family of Senator Ekweremadu “in this difficult time as we beseech the most merciful God to grant accelerated healing to Miss Sonia Ekweremadu”.

The state government extended its profound gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria and the National Assembly for their empathy, support, solidarity and legal intervention.

It went further to appreciate the prayers of well-meaning Nigerians for early resolution of the issues.

Gov. Ugwuanyi inaugurates committee to coordinate implementation of Sectoral Reforms

In furtherance of the concerted efforts of his administration in reviewing the policies, programmes, structures and operations of the State Public Service for optimal results, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Wednesday, inaugurated an 8-man Committee to coordinate the implementation of the recommendations of the 12 Sectoral Committees.

Inaugurating the Committee, Gov. Ugwuanyi represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, named Dr. Kingsley T. Udeh as Chairman.

The governor also listed the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Engr. Mike Ogbuekwe, former Chairman, Collation Committee on Sectoral Ad hoc Committees’ report, Prof. Vincent Onodugo, and former Reform Manager, DFID PERL, South East, Mrs. Ucheoma Egwuatu, as members of the implementation coordination committee.

Other members of the Committee are former Member, Collation Committee on Sectoral Ad hoc Committees’ report and former State Team Lead, DFID SPARC, Enugu, Barr. Sam Onovo Onyia, Retired Permanent Secretary and Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor, Mrs. Sylvia Onwubuemeli mni, Representative of the Attorney General, and the Director of Administration, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Madueke Nsude, who serves as Secretary of the Committee.

Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that the responsibility of the Committee is to coordinate the implementation of the recommendations of the 12 Sectoral Committees that articulated necessary reforms in the State Public Service.

He urged members of the newly inaugurated Committee to bring their wealth of experience to bear on the assignment, “and thus, propel our state to an enviable height, while leaving indelible marks on the sands of time".

The sectors earlier reviewed by tested technocrats drawn from various backgrounds include Education, Health, Public Service, Justice, Water, Security, Agriculture, Rural Development, Finance and Chieftaincy/Community Matters.

The Sectoral Committees equally reviewed the state’s Internally Generated Revenue and international development partners’ funding; lands, housing and transport; sustainable environmental and urban management; and youths and sports development.

Responding on behalf of the implementation coordination committee, the Chairman, Dr. Udeh, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for finding them worthy to serve the state in that capacity.

He also commended the governor for his unique reform mindset.

Dr. Udeh reiterated their commitment to serve in the committee with “the fear of God and utmost good faith”, stressing that they will deliver on the mandate considering their depth of knowledge and experience.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed delight at the emergence of Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, a young and brilliant lawyer, as the running mate to the party’s governorship candidate in Enugu State, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, disclosing that the joint ticket will guarantee the sustenance of the enviable legacies of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration anchored on peace, security and good governance.

In a statement by the Chairman of the PDP in Enugu State, Hon. Augustine Nnamani, the party congratulated Barr. Ossai on his emergence as the party's deputy governorship candidate, and went further to commend Barr. Mbah for his forthrightness and wisdom in choosing him based on his integrity, competence and commitment.

The PDP State Chairman thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his effective leadership role which he (Nnamani) said was responsible for the peaceful conduct of the PDP primary elections in the state and the emergence of the party’s governorship candidate, Mbah, and other flag bearers of the party.

Hon. Nnamani stated that the party is convinced that Mbah as a humble, peaceful, visionary, God fearing and young entrepreneurial intellectual will sustain the worthy legacies of Gov. Ugwuanyi who he (Nnamani) said has done a lot to entrench peace and good governance in Enugu State, in spite of the nation’s economic, security and public health challenges.

He expressed optimism that Mbah as a brilliant lawyer and dedicated party man will uphold the manifesto of the PDP and the policy thrust of the present administration, if elected as governor of Enugu State.

“The PDP leadership in Enugu State is delighted at the nomination of Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, another young and brilliant lawyer and dedicated party man as the running mate to our governorship candidate, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

“We are delighted because Ossai’s emergence will boost the resolve of our governorship candidate, Barr. Peter Mbah, to sustain the enduring legacies of our leader and Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

“We deeply appreciate the sacrifice and steadfastness of our governor in ensuring that the people of Enugu State, including those in the rural areas, enjoy peace and good governance in spite of the numerous challenges confronting our country.

“The PDP family commends Barr. Mbah for his choice of running mate. We congratulate Barr. Ossai on his emergence which is well deserved and we profoundly appreciate the leader of our great Party in Enugu State, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for his effective leadership role in the emergence of our governorship candidate and other party’s candidates for the 2023 general elections”, Hon. Nnamani said.

Recall that Mbah in his acceptance speech as the PDP governorship candidate promised to build on the achievements of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration and serve the people of Enugu State with humility and moderation, openness and inclusiveness, simplicity and forthrightness.

He equally expressed profound gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for enhancing the democratic process of his emergence.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State inspects ongoing massive projects at the permanent site of the newly established State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno, Enugu State, recently licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Gov. Ugwuanyi, who charged the contractors on speedy completion of the projects, received assurance from the site Engineer of the firm handling the construction of the access and internal roads in the University, Ferotex Construction Company Limited, that the road project will be completed in record time, and according to specification.

The governor was accompanied on the inspection by the Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area, Hon. Solomon Izuchukwu Onah, his deputy, Hon. Gideon Tochukwu Eze, and the former Chairman of Udenu LGA, Hon. Frank Ugwu.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Jubilation as NUC grants Enugu govt license to establish State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted license to Enugu State Government recognising establishment of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno, Enugu State.

The license issued to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, at NUC headquarters, Abuja, on Thursday, was sequel to the enactment of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Law, Igbo-Eno, Enugu State, on April 13, 2022.

Presenting the license, the Executive Secretary, NUC, Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed, congratulated Gov. Ugwuanyi and the people of the state “on the establishment of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences to be located in Igbo-Eno of Enugu State”.

The Law establishing SUMAS was presented to NUC by Enugu State government alongside the Academic brief and Master Plan of the new University.

The License recognized SUMAS as the second Enugu State owned University.

With the final stage of granting the license, Enugu State will now have a brand new, full-fledged, State-owned University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno, Enugu State.

SUMAS, Igbo-Eno has become the 59th State University in Nigeria. Enugu State with two State-owned Universities has now joined the league of states with more than one state University.

Reacting, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Enugu, Prof. Malachy Okwueze, who witnessed the presentation of the license to Gov. Ugwuanyi at the NUC headquarters, Abuja, said: "We can't thank the Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State enough for achieving this goal of providing the platform for increased access to quality university education for our teeming youths who struggle year after year to gain admission into the university without fulfilling their desires and dreams for university education".

According to him "This is especially so for professional courses such as medicine. The existing Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) get over 2, 000 applications from our youths to study medicine but only a paltry 50 applicants (candidates) are offered access to study medicine at the end.

"Even the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), the Federal University in Enugu State, offers only about 180 candidates admission into medicine leaving the dreams of thousands of our youths to study the course dashed year after year.

"This is despite the deficit in the number of medical doctors and nurses required to optimize medical and healthcare for our people".

Expressing the joy of the people of Enugu State over the feat recorded by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration, Prof. Okwueze disclosed that the state government has made provision for sustainable funding of the new University.

He added that "the stage is getting set for the handover and the official commissioning of the flyover bridge at the popular T-Junction, Nike Lake Road, Enugu, where traffic gridlock became every road user's nightmare before His Excellency intervened with a befitting flyover bridge delivered in record time to ease all worries on the road".

In keeping with his administration’s Urban Renewal drive, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Tuesday, inspected Trans Ekulu Bridge, Enugu, with a view to beautifying the area as one of the gateways to Enugu City.

Gov. Ugwuanyi also inspected vehicular traffic at the bridge and the connecting roads in other to proffer solution to the gridlock being experienced by road users in the axis basically caused by increase in population strength of the state.

Gov. Ugwuanyi further inspected the New Market axis of Enugu City, which is another gateway to the city, ahead of his administration’s plans to reconstruct and modernize the roundabout and maintain the roads to give the area the face-lift it deserves.

From the New Market, the governor moved to inspect the ongoing construction of Justice Nwazota-Ilogu Close Road, GRA, Enugu, with a spur to Works Road Layout.

Gov. Ugwuanyi thereafter inspected Leadway Insurance Street, GRA, Enugu and other bypasses, for necessary interventions, aimed at decongesting traffic in the city.

Already, the newly constructed T-junction Flyover Bridge by Nike Lake Road, Enugu East Local Government Area, and the reconstructed and modernized Milliken Hill Road, Ngwo, Enugu North LGA, have provided the needed face-lift and traffic decongestion in the two gateways to Enugu City.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has declared a 12-hour curfew in Igbo-Eze North and Igbo-Eze South Local Government Areas of the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Simon Ortuanya, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, said the curfew takes immediate effect and will be active between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. daily.

He explained that the decision was “pursuant to Executive Order No. 3, 2022 and consequent upon security challenges in Igbo-Eze North and Igbo-Eze South Local Government Areas of Enugu State”.

Mr Ortuanya added that the governor imposed the curfew in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 215 (4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The statement directed the chairmen of the two council areas as well as operatives of the Forest Guard and Neighbourhood Watch in the affected areas to ensure strict compliance with the executive order.

It also directed the state commissioner of police to take all lawful measures to enforce the order, “including arrest and prosecution of defaulters”.

The decision comes barely three days after the governor held an emergency security meeting at the Government House, Enugu.

Enugu, like other states in Nigeria’s South-east, has witnessed an increase in deadly attacks lately.

The tricycle and motorcycle rider associations in the two local council areas have directed their members not to operate in the areas from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

They also directed all Keke and Okada operators to withdraw their services in Aguibeje and Iyionu communities in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, with effect from June 7, 2022, till further notice and requested security agencies in the state to enforce the associations’ resolutions.

Two police officers were killed last week in Mkpamte Community, Igbo-Eze North Council Area of the state.

Arsonists, believed to be enforcing the illegal sit-at-home order in the South-east razed a cement truck in the Nsukka area of the state.

Mr Ugwuanyi recently banned the operations of motorcycles and tricycles in some local government areas to check the frequent attacks in the area.

The government later lifted the ban following public outcry, and assurances from leaders of the transport operators to assist the government in bringing an end to the attacks.

The attacks, mostly targeted at security officials and government facilities, have been attributed to the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) which is agitating for a sovereign state for the Igbo-speaking people in the South-east.


The IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is detained in Abuja where he is standing trial for terrorism.

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has offered bursary to 165 Enugu students in different campuses of the Nigeria Law School across the country.

The I65 beneficiaries of the bursary were identified and listed by Enugu law students themselves when they interacted with Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu, recently.

Confirming the disbursement of the bursary to the law students, the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Scholarship Board, Barr. Uche Levis Abonyi, stated that each of the beneficiaries has received the sum of N100,000.00 from the state government, through his office.

Barr. Abonyi disclosed that Gov. Ugwuanyi started paying the bursary to Enugu State indigenes in the Nigeria Law School in 2020 during the outbreak of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in the country.

He added that the state government during the heat of COVID-19 in 2020 paid the sum of N24,600,000.00 to Enugu law students to cushion the adverse effects of the pandemic, stressing that “This payment was made at a time most states were struggling to pay workers' salaries because of economic recession”.

The Executive Secretary urged the students to be good ambassadors of the state wherever they find themselves, and “always have our dear state, Enugu, in your prayers for the sustenance of peace, security and good governance entrenched by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration".

Reacting on their behalf, the leader of the law students, Michael Kenechukwu Onah expressed immense gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for continued show of humility, benevolence and steadfastness to the wellbeing of Enugu indigenes and residents in spite of the nation’s economic challenges.

Onah reiterated the commitment of the law students towards making Enugu State proud, promising Gov. Ugwuanyi that they will surely make him proud in the Bar Finals coming up in August this year in appreciation of his kind gesture.

Describing the bursary as “a privilege, not a right”, the leader of the law students, reassured the governor of their support, prayers and solidarity.

In their determined efforts to assist the Enugu State government and security agencies to decisively address the security challenges in Igbo-Eze North and Igbo-Eze South local government areas of the state, the Tricycle (Keke) and Motorcycle (Okada) Riders Associations in the two council areas have resolved that their members should stop operating from 6pm to 6am, daily in the affected two LGAs.

The two associations also directed all Keke and Okada operators to withdraw their services in Aguibeje and Iyionu communities in Igbo Eze North LGA till further notice.

The resolutions were taken during an emergency meeting of the Executives and Members of Keke and Okada riders associations in Igbo- Eze North and Igbo-Eze South LGAs, on Tuesday.

The decisions were disclosed in a statement jointly signed by the Enugu State Chairman of Association of Tricycle Riders, Comrade Benjamin Ikah, and the four Chairmen of Tricycle Riders and Motorcycle Associations in Igbo-Eze North and Igbo-Eze South LGAs, Comrade Solomon Ejiofor Ali, Izuchukwu Onah, Samuel Eze and Fidelis Onah, respectively.

The associations requested all the security agencies in the state “to enforce these resolutions” and went further to enjoin their members in the affected LGAs and communities to comply strictly with the resolutions, forthwith.

The people of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, on Sunday, trooped out en masse to the Government House, Enugu on a Solidarity/Thank-you visit to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for the unprecedented development projects his administration has executed in their council area.

Led by the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani, the member representing Isi-Uzo Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Mrs. Amaka Ugwueze, the Chairman of Isi-Uzo LGA, Barr. Obiora Obeagu and other stakeholders, the people of the council also commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the peaceful conduct of the PDP primaries in the state.

The people of Isi-Uzo LGA told Gov. Ugwuanyi, who is the leader of the PDP in the state, that they accepted the outcome of the party primaries in good faith as loyal party men and women, and assured the governor of their 100 percent support and loyalty.

Presenting their unanimous stance to the governor, the Chairman of Isi-Uzo LGA, Barr. Obeagu, while listing the numerous projects of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in the council area disclosed that “from the time you assumed office as governor till date, Isi-Uzo LGA has witnessed tremendous development”.

The Council Chairman added that in the history of Enugu State, no administration remembered Isi-Uzo LGA in terms of development, human empowerment, political appointments, peace and security like Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration, stressing that the governor constructed and reconstructed classroom buildings and other infrastructure in over 55 schools, built healthcare facilities, bridges, and roads such as the 22km Neke-Mbu-Ogbodu Aba-Obollo Etiti inter-community link road and the 8.8km Nkalagu-Eha Amufu road in Isi-Uzo LGA, which was neglected for over 35 years.

He revealed that their people in the affected communities are grateful to Gov. Ugwuanyi that they are enjoying tarred roads in their life time courtesy of his administration.

Reassuring Gov. Ugwuanyi of their support, the people of Isi-Uzo LGA said: “We have come to tell you that we are loyal party men and women; that you have our 100 percent support and loyalty and wherever you stand is where Isi-uzo stands”.

Speaking on the outcome of the PDP Governorship primary election in Enugu State, the State Chairman of PDP, Hon. Nnamani, explained that the emergence of Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as the party’s governorship candidate was the choice of ‘Ndi Enugu’ following wider consultations which involved not only the governor, but also the party leadership, elder statesmen and other revered stakeholders including the traditional rulers, among others.

Corroborating, the Traditional Rulers from Isi-Uzo LGA present at the event, through HRH Igwe Silas Udogu hinted that prior to the PDP governorship primary election, the entire Traditional Rulers of Enugu East Senatorial District came together, preached peace and agreed to support whoever emerged as the party’s governorship candidate.

The Royal fathers thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for keeping faith with the agreement he had with the Traditional Rulers from Enugu East Senatorial District, saying: “We also thank you for the peace in Enugu State”.

Other speakers at the event, namely the member representing Isi-Uzo Constituency, Hon. Mrs. Ugwueze, former Chairman of the Council, Prof. Sam Ugwu, Chairman of PDP in Isi-Uzo LGA, Hon. Uche Ugwueze, representative of the youths, Jideofor, all endorsed the position of the council chairman and the State PDP Chairman, and reiterated the support and loyalty of the people of Isi-Uzo LGA to Gov. Ugwuanyi.

Also in the delegation were the former Member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Amb. Kingsley Ebenyi, former Member of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Daniel Ogbuabor, former Member of the National Executive Committee of the PDP, Hon. Osita Ogene, former President General of the Mgbuji Autonomous Community, Chief Eric Ebeh, a successful farmer formerly based in the North, Alhaji Sani Friday Nnaji, and Prince Emeka Ugwu, among others.

Youths of Enugu North Senatorial District under the auspices of ‘Nsukka Youths for Gburugburu’ have commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for his commitment to the wellbeing and development of young people in the district in particular and the state general.

The youths also applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for the manner he has been carrying them along in his government, stressing that, in the history of the state, Enugu youths have never had the opportunity they have today in governance.

Speaking when a delegation of youth leaders from the six local government areas of Enugu North Senatorial District paid a solidarity visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu, on Wednesday, the leader of the delegation, Roy Ifeanyi Ekwueme, told the governor that the visit was also to appreciate him for the peaceful conduct of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary elections in the state.

They expressed confidence in the governor’s wisdom and leadership approach in respect of his political decisions saying: “That is why we organized ourselves to say for everything you have done for us, we are going to come to show you solidarity and support."

According to him “We also thank you for the opportunity you (Ugwuanyi) gave to the youths that ordinarily wouldn’t have dreamt of being councilors, council chairmen, party candidates, even community leaders. Some of them are here with us. You carried them along and gave them a platform. These are people you raised in Enugu State who never had a father that spoke for them. They never had a name they were banking on. It was you that found them and gave them a name in Enugu State”.

Speaking further, Ekwueme, who is also the President of Nsukka Youths General Assembly, reassured Gov. Ugwuanyi that youths of Nsukka zone are resolute in their support and loyalty to him and his administration, stressing that they remain committed to their stance that “where you say we will go, we will go”.

Stressing that Gov. Ugwuanyi has “done a lot for us and you are still doing a lot for us”, the leader of the delegation disclosed that Nsukka youths have unanimously endorsed the governor’s senatorial candidature and are working tirelessly towards his landslide victory at the poll in 2023 to represent the district in the 10th Senate.

“That is why we came as ‘Nsukka Youth for Gburugburu’ to show that we are for you; to show you that we have always been for you; to show you that you are the only person in Nsukka zone that we can trust because you have shown us that you love, respect and acknowledge us”, he added.

The youth group went further to thank Gov. Ugwuanyi for his development strides in Enugu State especially his landmark projects such as the massive ongoing projects at the permanent site of ESUT Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine, Igbo Eno, aimed at providing world-class healthcare services to residents of the state in the rural areas and beyond.

The youth leaders at the event include the immediate past Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Enugu State Chapter, Comrade Paschal Ugwu, the Director General, Gburuscare Initiative, Darlington Ugwuegbe, the President, Federated Association of Nsukka Students, Prince Felix, the immediate past President, Federated Association of Nsukka Students, Clinton Ogbonna, the Member representing Enugu North Senatorial District in the National Youths Parliament, Onyemaechi Onah, and the President, Igbo-Etiti Youths Forum, Nicholas Odozor.

Others were the Chairman, Uzo-Uwani Youths Forum, Cletus Idiga (Opata Igbo), the Leader, Youth Assembly of Nigeria, Igbo-Eze South, Darlington Mamah, the Publicity Secretary, Nsukka Youths General Assembly, Onyekachi Omeje and a popular Comedian/Entertainer, MC Kokoli, etc.

The massive ongoing projects at the permanent site of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine, Igbo-Eno, being executed by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration are advancing progressively with the completion of 6-unit of College of Medicine facility buildings comprising 12, 10 and 8 classroom blocks, 2-unit of 102-room hostel blocks, and construction of access and internal roads.

The water supply and reticulation project and external electrical infrastructure are at various stages of completion.

No cause for alarm over gas leak at Caritas University, Emene, outskirts of Enugu, which was caused by borehole drilling activities, as safety measures
have been taken to avert any disaster from the incident scene, says SEMA

Read full text of the statement by SEMA...

*Public Announcement!!!*

The Enugu State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) wishes to inform the public about the gas leak which has culminated into a fire outbreak at Caritas University, Emene, Enugu.

SEMA in collaboration with NEMA activated the relevant emergency stakeholders including Fire Service (State, Federal and FAAN fire department), NNPC, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority who are on ground to provide immediate technical assessment and solution regarding the leakage and raging fire.

According to the DG NOSDRA Mr. Idris Musa, the gas leak was caused by borehole drilling activities which hit a gas reservoir.

The area affected has long been cordoned off and fire fighters are permanently stationed at the incident scene so as to avert spread of the fire and any form of disaster.

SEMA therefore advises the public to be calm as necessary steps have been taken to avert any disaster from the incident scene.

Nkechi Eneh FICMC, MCArb
Executive Secretary
Enugu State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA)

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has won the Enugu North Senatorial District Primary Election of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Gov. Ugwuanyi was declared winner of the peaceful and transparent senatorial primary election amid jubilation by the Chairman of the five-man Electoral Panel from the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, Prince Vin Yandev Amabei.

Prince Amabei disclosed that Gov. Ugwuanyi scored 299 valid votes cast to defeat three other aspirants in the ballot paper, namely Mr. Okanya Celestine, Chief Eze Godwin Ikechukwu, and Prof. Godsmark Edward Ugwu, who was personally present at the event.

Declaring Ugwuanyi as the winner of the PDP ticket for Enugu North Senatorial District in the 2023 general elections, the Electoral Panel Chairman said, "Having concluded the counting of the votes here, you, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has scored the highest number of votes cast which is 299 votes. And having scored that wide margin, by the virtue of my position as the Chairman of the National Electoral Committee for the exercise in Enugu State, I hereby declare you (Ugwuanyi) as the PDP candidate for Enugu North Senatorial District of the state. Congratulations sir".

Prince Amabei disclosed that the party primary was conducted in accordance with the Electoral Act and the guidelines of the PDP.

The electoral process commenced with the accreditation of 318 delegates from the six Local Government Areas of Enugu North Senatorial District, which was conducted by the PDP Enugu State three-man Electoral Panel led by the Returning Officer, Barr. Tahill Ochi, before the voting exercise by the delegates.

Monitored by the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the leader of the delegation described the PDP Senatorial Primary Election in Enugu North Senatorial District as peaceful and transparent, stressing that "the electoral process went well".

In his acceptance speech, Gov. Ugwuanyi dedicated the victory to God, and went round to thank the delegates for their overwhelming support and solidarity.

The Enugu State Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani led the Chairman of the National Electoral Committee to the venue of the primary to conduct the exercise.

The Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Senator Chukwuka Utazi, the member representing Igbo-Eze North/Udenu Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Simon Atigwe, the former Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Chief Okechukwu Itanyi, the PDP candidate for Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency, Engr. Vita Abba, the former Economic Adviser to the President, Prof. Osita Ogbu, the PDP Presidential Aspirant, Barr. Charlie Ugwu, the six Council Chairmen from the zone, and the former State Chairman of the Party, Chief Ikeje Asogwa, were among the dignitaries that witnessed the event, which took place at the newly constructed Township Stadium in Nsukka.

The Electoral Committees from the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the conduct of the State House of Assembly (SHOA) and Federal House of Representatives (FHORs) Primary Elections in Enugu State have expressed satisfaction with the exercises, describing them as peaceful, transparent and orderly.

The two electoral committees which gave their separate verdicts when they supervised the conduct of the primaries in the state, on Sunday, commended the Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi-led leadership of the PDP in Enugu State for galvanizing the delegates and party members in displaying utmost commitment, discipline and comportment during the peaceful exercises.

Speaking at Udenu Local Government Area, where Hon. Solomon Onah was unanimously elected as the Party’s candidate for Udenu Constituency in the State House of Assembly, the Chairman of PDP National Electoral Committee, Barr. Uche Igbokwe, lauded the electoral process of the primary election, expressing delight at the presence of the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the event.

In Nsukka LGA, where the primary elections for Nsukka East and Nsukka West constituencies were conducted, Barr. Igbokwe, on behalf of other members of the electoral committee, also commended the peaceful conduct of the exercise.

Led to the venue of the primary election by the State Deputy Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Innocent Ezeoha, and the State Organising Secretary of the Party, Dr. Christian Iyiani, the Committee applauded the delegates for their sincerity of purpose and decorum, expressing satisfaction with the electoral processes put in place by the State Working Committee of the party.

In Enugu East LGA, the SHOA Primary Election Committee, pointed out that “everything is going on peacefully”, stressing that “We have gone to several LGAs and we have seen that everything is going on perfectly well in Enugu State”.

They appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for his uncommon leadership role in Enugu State in particular and the PDP South East zone in general, revealing that the governor is the one that has kept state chapters of the party in the zone going.

Supervising the Federal House of Representatives Primary Elections in Enugu State, the National Electoral Committee led by Hon. Aminu Koko equally described the exercise in the state as peaceful, transparent and credible, maintaining that they were satisfied with the electoral process and convivial atmosphere.

Other members of the SHOA Primary Electoral Committee were Hon. Egbuna Nduanya, Hajiya Fatima Usman, Alh. Abubakar Bala Matawale, and Mr. Salihu Onimisi who served as Secretary of the Committee.

Alaji Umaru Zakari, Hajiya Asiya Bayero, Innocent Chibundu Ezekiel and Mr. Emmanuel Ekpe (Secretary) were members of the Federal Constituency Electoral Committee chaired by Hon. Koko.

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State through the State Scholarship Board has secured fully-funded scholarships for another 28 post graduate students who are indigenes of the state to study in Europe and America.

Addressing newsmen when he led some of the beneficiaries to the Government House, Enugu, on Friday, to thank Gov. Ugwuanyi for the rare opportunity, the Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Scholarship Board, Barr. Levi Abonyi, disclosed that the scholarship mentorship programme was designed and developed by the Board to expose Enugu students to available funding opportunities around the world, in line with Gov. Ugwuanyi administration’s youth empowerment scheme.

Barr. Abonyi revealed that the scholarship programme was approved by the State Executive Council (EXCO), adding that the programme has produced 46 fully-funded Masters and PhD students from the state.

It would be recalled that the first batch of the programme launched in October 2020 had 18 Enugu State indigenes as beneficiaries.

The Executive Secretary explained that the scheme prepares fresh graduates to enroll directly into PhD programmes without first obtaining a Masters Degree.

He added that the Gov. Ugwuanyi administration’s "goal is to produce a generation of intellectuals who will be better equipped to turn the state around economically and who will be better disposed to compete favourably globally".

Dwelling further on the state government’s contributions to the programme, Barr. Abonyi said that it "pays the 6 scholarship mentors monthly allowances as honorarium for their services, takes care of the cost of Visa, flight tickets, initial living expenses and other logistics of all successful students at the cost of One million naira (N1,000,000.00), and comes in as a guarantor for the issuance of Visas to the benefiting students".

Expressing gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi on behalf of the beneficiaries, Lilian Chinenye Ekowo, who will be travelling to the University of Notre Dem, United States of America, thanked the governor for availing them the opportunity to benefit from the scholarship board, disclosing that "Today, each one of us was awarded the scholarship of One million naira travelling expenses".

Another beneficiary, Mathias Chukwudi Isiani, appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for his benevolence and commitment to youth empowerment and education.

He advised other young people to develop interest in the programme to improve on their academic careers.

On his part, one of the 18 beneficiaries of the first batch of the scholarship mentorship programme in 2020, Odinaka Kingsley Eze, who graduated from University of Mississippi, USA, expressed delight that "this mentorship programme has up to 46 ambassadors”, saying: “All thanks to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi for the opportunity".

He stressed that the experience is quite revealing and enriching in terms of academics and research.

Speaking on behalf of the Mentors, the Coordinator, Enugu State Mentorship Programme, Dr. Kelechi Ugwuanyi pointed out that more Enugu indigenes will benefit from the programme in no distance time, stressing that “this mentorship programme under Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration is focused on raising the next leaders of this state”.

According to him, “Our target is that before His Excellency (Ugwuanyi) finishes his tenure, we must have close to fifty or one hundred beneficiaries across the world. I am happy to say that today we have a spread of ambassadors in USA, Canada, Japan, Netherland, Egypt, China and Czech Republic.

“One interesting aspect of this is that His Excellency did not only constitute this programme, but also promised that each and every one of these Mentees who made it through the process is going to receive the sum of One million naira (N1,000,000.00) to support these persons’ flight ticket, Visa application and other logistics associated with their travelling.

“The governor made it possible and I am happy to say that they are all holding their cheques and some of them will be leaving this weekend and next week.

“We thank Gov. Ugwuanyi for giving us this opportunity to work for the state and encourage the young ones to be able to go to different countries of the world to study. And we hope that they will come back to put in their best in the economy and development of the state”.

The Chances of Dr. Josef-Ken Onoh emerging as the 2023 Enugu state governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, brightened on Tuesday with the official withdrawal of Hon. Offor Chukwuegbo from the race.

Chukwuegbo who represents Enugu North/Enugu South federal constituency in the House of Representatives had on Tuesday reportedly announced before his 17 local government council coordinators that he has stepped down from the Governorship race to pursue going back to the National Assembly

Following the development, Dr. Onoh who hails from Enugu North local government council has emerged the only candidate of the Federal constituency in Enugu East senatorial district where stakeholders in the state have agreed that the next governor of the state should come from in the spirit of zoning, justice, fairness and equity.

Speaking on the development, a PDP stalwart from Enugu North local government area, Chief Ike Ngwu commended Chukwuegbo for reducing tension in the race.

Ngwu said: “Offor’s (Chukwuegbo) action is quiet commendable and has narrowed the governorship race in Enugu North/ Enugu South federal constituency to Dr. Ken Onoh. His reason for stepping down may not be far from our federal constituency’s decision to produce one aspirant with with which we want to use to make our bargain stronger.

“Remember that both Offor and Onoh were both members of Enugu State House of Assembly at the same time between 2003-2007. The traditional rulers of our Federal constituency and other political stakeholders have been meeting on how to make a common bargain in this governorship election because we believe that we have a superior argument in Enugu east senatorial zone and that is what you have seen playing out.

“We are hoping that the remaining two federal constituencies in Enugu East senatorial district which are Nkanu East/Nkanu West and Enugu East/Isi-Uzo will toe the same line as we have done so that the choice our PDP candidate would be made simpler.

“As Offor told his coordinators, it’s not just one person who has the responsibility of tailoring down the number of aspirants which you know are 15 in number and with this his magnimity and bold step, our federal constituency has set a pace which we hope others will follow. We don’t need the Governor’s intervention to help the state in resolving a political congestion such as we have now in this 2023 governorship contest.

“We applaud Offor’s decision to reduce the burden on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in the electoral process. We just hope that the other two federal constituencies will follow the example we have set and arrive at credible candidates in each of their constituencies to help the Governor made a viable choice.”

Committed to ensuring that the enviable sanitary condition of Enugu city is restored, the Enugu State government has upwardly reviewed the terms of waste evacuation contracts with the waste disposal contractors in the state to ensure optimum hygienic condition of the city.

A statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Steve Oruruo, said the review was approved to compensate the contractors for the high operating cost occasioned by spike in cost of diesel, vehicle maintenance and labour, among others.

It was also to improve the capacity of the waste evacuation contractors to render top-notch service.

While frowning at the declining state of the cleanliness of Enugu city, the state government consequently charged the waste evacuation contractors to urgently reverse the undesirable trend and restore the hitherto enviable sanitary condition of the city.

It assured the people of the state that a huge improvement in the cleanliness of the city will be witnessed shortly.

The Local Government congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held across the 17 Local Government Areas of Enugu State on Tuesday have been described by the Electoral Panel from the National Secretariat of the party as "very peaceful, well organised and transparent".

The PDP LGA congresses were conducted across the 17 LGAs of Enugu State to elect one National Delegate and nominate one Person Living With Disability (PLWD) ahead of the party primary elections. The congresses were monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking while members of the 5-man Electoral Panel supervised the LG congresses across the state, the Chairman, Hajiya Amina Jambo commended the PDP family in Enugu State led by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for the peaceful atmosphere in the state, and the enthusiasm and transparency displayed in the conduct of the exercise.

The Enugu State Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani and his Deputy, Hon. Innocent Ezeoha led members of the National Electoral Panel to supervise the LGA Congresses.

The Panel Chairman also applauded the Gov. Ugwuanyi-led PDP family for adhering to the guidelines of the party for the conduct of the LGA congresses, adding that they are very proud of the party in Enugu State.

Addressing the party faithful at the Udenu LGA, Hajiya Jambo said that "these Local Government Congresses in Enugu State are among the most peaceful, well organised and colourful exercise of our party in the country", adding that "Everywhere we have gone, the people are comported and observing the rules and guidelines of the PDP for the conduct of the exercise".

She acknowledged the presence of the women and the physically challenged persons, including officials of INEC at the exercise, saying: "We saw women and the disabled. We have seen them everywhere we go. We also saw the INEC officials monitoring the exercise.

"This shows that you people are following the guidelines. You people are doing what you are supposed to do. We are very proud of you. We are happy that you people are doing things correctly. That the INEC officials here have confirmed to us that everything is going on well and in accordance with the PDP guidelines"

At Isi-Uzo LGA PDP Office in Ikem, the National Electoral Panel Chairman lauded the peaceful and transparent exercise stressing that "We have seen democracy in action in Enugu State".

According to her, "It is clear that His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is a true democrat. So this is pure democracy in action. Everywhere we go, you are following the guidelines. We have seen people with disabilities; we have seen women everywhere. As a woman that obviously makes me happy.

"My team has been in Enugu State since morning, and we have been going from one Local Government to another to supervise the PDP Local Government congresses".

In Enugu East LGA where the members of the Electoral Panel were received by the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, Senator Gil Emeka Nnaji, the member representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, Hon. Cornelius Nnaji, the Council Chairman, Hon. Nze Livinus Anike, among other stakeholders, the verdict was the same as they commended the peaceful atmosphere, the transparency and adherence to the party guidelines and the presence of INEC officials.

At Enugu North PDP Office which was their first port of call, Hajiya Jambo said: "We are so appreciative of your warm welcome. You can see that the place is well organised and very peaceful".

Addressing the party delegates at Isi-Uzo LGA when the National Electoral Panel arrived the venue, the Returning Officer, Dr. Ozo Okey Ozoani, noted that INEC officials were monitoring the exercise, and explained that "before your arrival we have done accreditation, we have called the statutory delegates; we have also called the three-man delegates, the LG delegates, the councillors, ward executives, and we have a total of 278 delegates in Isi-Uzo LGA".

According to him, "I am privileged and honoured to be the Returning Officer where an election will be monitored by the national team of our party".

Members of PDP National Electoral Panel were Yinka Adegbola, Hajiya Fatima Usman, Chidi Dike and Hon. Egbuna Nduanya.

The Chairmen of Udenu, Enugu North and Isi-Uzo LGAs, Hon. Solomon Onah, Hon. Emeka Onunze and Hon. Obiora Obeagu respectively, led the stakeholders in their respective council areas to receive the National Electoral Panel members.

Ahead of the primary elections of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the statutory and ad hoc delegates from Enugu West Senatorial District, on Sunday, rose with one voice, assuring Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State that they are solidly behind him, and will vote according to his direction in the selection of PDP candidates for the 2023 general elections in the state.

The delegates, who gave the assurance when they paid a solidarity visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu, applauded the governor for entrenching peace and good governance in Enugu State.

They also commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the peaceful conduct of the ward congress of the PDP across the 260 electoral wards of Enugu State, on April 30, 2022, stressing that the outcome of the exercise was an eloquent testimony that the governor is “a leader of peace”.

The delegates from the five local government areas of Enugu West Senatorial District comprising Aninri, Awgu, Ezeagu, Oji River and Udi, told the governor that they have never taken, and will not take, his peaceful disposition and uncommon leadership qualities for granted.

They expressed delight that Enugu State is a reference point for peace in Nigeria, pointing out the cherished feat was made possible because of the governor’s commitment to peace, security and wellbeing of residents of the state.

Speaking on behalf of the delegates, the Chairman of Ezeagu LGA and State Deputy Chairman, Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Chukwudi Ozoeluba, said: “We assure you (Ugwuanyi) that we the delegates are for you and wherever you say we should go, we will go with you. Other decisions you will take, we will stand with you. In any condition we are with you”.

Flanked by the other four council chairmen from Enugu West Senatorial District, Hon. Ozoeluba added: “We equally to thank you for the peace you have given Enugu State. We have never seen a peaceful three-man delegate election in Enugu State like this one of April 30, 2022.

“This shows that you are a father and a leader of peace. And that peace you have given Enugu State has made our state one of the best states in Nigeria. Thank you for making it possible”.

In his remarks, the pioneer State Chairman of the PDP, Dr. Charles Egumgbe, also described Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a man of peace and tranquility”, deserving of the unalloyed support and solidarity of the people of Enugu West Senatorial District and beyond, as the Governor of Enugu State and leader of the PDP in the state.

According to him, “The issue of leadership is not changeable and PDP has established that precedence as a party. I commend you (Ugwuanyi) for the peaceful ward congress of our great party last weekend. It was tranquil in my ward and I know it was tranquil everywhere.

“We are a family and we have a leader in the person of Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. As a political party, let us continue to follow our leader, he is leading us alright”.

Dignitaries that graced the event include the Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; the Deputy Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly (ENHA), Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu; Senator Ben Collins Ndu; former Members of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ogbuefi Ozomgachi, Hon. KGB Oguakwa and Hon. Garry Eneh; former Minister of Aviation, Amb. Mrs. Fidelia Njeze; Chief Whip of ENHA, Hon. Mrs. Jane Eneh; Hon. Chinedu Okwu (Otaka) and other state legislators from the zone; Rt. Hon. Dr. Festus Uzor; Dr. Uche Uzochukwu; Hon. Okezie Nwanjoku, among others.