Abakaliki, Nigeria – An Ebonyi indigene, Emmanuel Obasi, has been rewarded with N2 million for trekking from Ilorin, Kwara, to Abakaliki, Ebonyi state, to appreciate the good works of a federal lawmaker, Dr Nkemkamma Kama.
Trekking seems to be thriving in Ebonyi state as another indigene, Jeremiah Obaji, received N10 million from Gov. Francis Nwifuru last Sunday for trekking from Lagos to Abakaliki.
Obaji had said that he trekked for 17 days to appreciate the governor for restoring peace in his community, Alaoma, in Ohaukwu Local Government Area (LGA) of the state which was plagued by communal conflict.
On the other hand, Emmanuel Obasi told newsmen on arrival in Abakaliki on Wednesday that he trekked to honour Kama who represents his constituency, Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo federal constituency.
“I decided to honour Kama in a most uncommon way due to his infrastructural and human development strides in the constituency.
“The journey which I started on Aug. 25 covered 670 kilometres with serious security challenges strewn on its route.
“Due to security challenges along the Ilorin/Ekiti/Okene route, I had to change to the Bida/Minna/Suleja/Zuba/Lokoja route for the trek.
He noted that people told him to give up on the journey due to inherent stress but he stayed on determined to complete it.
“I received flakes that I was trekking for a representative from the Labour Party while I was an All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy Youth Leader in Ohaozara LGA.
“I responded that the period of politicking was over and that Kama’s infrastructural and human empowerment strides are being enjoyed by the people no matter their party affiliation.
“My motivation to continue the journey got renewed when I learnt he was joining the APC and I decided to conclude the journey despite all odds.”
Obasi noted that he was warned not to embark on night journeys during the trek as he retired for rest where ever he found himself by 7 p.m.
“I received favour and support from people during the trek as some people accommodated me freely where ever night fell.
“I did not encounter any health challenge as I was certified fit for the journey by my doctor.”
Dr David Chitah, a Senior Legislative Aide who received Obasi on behalf of the lawmaker, commended him for the commitment in embarking on the journey.
“My principal could have welcomed you personally but he left for Abuja on an official engagement.
“The lawmaker will personally host you on return to the state as he remains appreciative for the risk you took to appreciate his people-oriented strides.
“He has decided to appreciate you with N2 million to take a good rest and take care of your health.”
