The Immediate Past Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi state, Hon. Charlse Akpu-Enika, has commended the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi on his visit cum interface with the Urban Community of Abakaliki as part of his stakeholders engagement on the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Francis Nwifuru.
The “Game Changer’ as he is called in the Ebonyi social and political spheres, thanked Umahi for his unflinching commitment to the development of the South-East zone.
Akpu–Enika who is one of the urban community leaders, praised Umahi for practicalising his mantra that there is no indigene or non–indigene in the urban community.
“The minister directed the observance of a minute silence in honour of Mmesoma, the Anambra girl allegedly killed by her ex–boyfriend.
“Umahi in his remarks, called on all residents of the state capital to embrace unity and brotherhood as everyone should see themselves as one.
“This is irrespective of their state of origin or place of residence as nobody should be regarded as a stranger,”.
The Former Commissioner thanked President Bola Tinubu for giving Umahi, the opportunity of rewriting the developmental story of the South-East.
“Before the president’s intervention in road infrastructure through Umahi, travelling from Abakaliki to Anambra could take as long as five hours.
“Today, that journey has been reduced to approximately one hour, thirty minutes.
“This also includes the remarkable improvements in connectivity across other parts of the region, including the Enugu–Aba/Umuahia axis and other major routes which connects the south east with other parts of the country,”.
He further observed that Umahi has demonstrated exceptional love for Anambra people, arguing that his contributions to the state transcend what many people who claim to be indigenes have done.
“Umahi has attracted significant federal projects to Anambra and during his tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State, he appointed several Anambra indigenes into important positions including Commissioner, Special Assistants,Board member, Senior Technical Assistants etc.
” He also provided a level playing field for non-indigenes to participate meaningfully in governance.”
Akpu–Enika while speaking on the political future of the Igbo nation, expressed reservations about any political arrangement that would limit an Igbo presidency to just four years.
“Four years will not be adequate for an Igbo President to make meaningful national impact and consolidate the political gains of the South-East.
“Even during the tenure of my brother, H.E Peter Obi as Governor of Anambra State, four years was not sufficient for the Nigeria Democratic Party (NDC) Presidential Candidate, to accomplish all he had envisioned, which informed his decision to seek another term of 4years making it 8years he served as Governor
” Igbo people should think strategically about their long-term political interests. Anything short of 8years for Igbo presidency is not acceptable and not in the best interest of ndi Igbo.
“Igbos should not be unwise to accept a political arrangement that offers an Igbo President, only four years.”
He argued that Nigeria has six geopolitical zones and if the South-East accepts a four-year presidential arrangement, the other five zones could collectively occupy the presidency for another 40 years before the Igbos get another opportunity.
” Ndigbo should look beyond immediate political sentiments, embrace strategic thinking and make decisions that will secure a stronger and more sustainable political future for the region.
“Umahi’s message is clear: Ndigbo must think beyond the present, act wisely and prioritise long-term political relevance and national inclusion.”
I have every right to say no to 4years agreement by one person whose 8years as Governor was not even enough to develop all sectors in Anambra, talk more of the entire country. We should be realistic.
We honestly need strategic thinking and not to make any mistake now.Yes, I like my brother’s interest to be president but not with 4years arrangement.It took President Tinubu many years to plan for his presidency and when the time reached, he grabbed it.He visibly supported other regions, built bridges and made connections and did not rely on Yoruba votes to be president.
