Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • Judge bars journalists from covering suspected coup plotters’ trial

    Judge bars journalists from covering suspected coup plotters’ trial

     

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court (FHC) in Abuja, on Monday barred journalists from covering the trial of six suspected coup plotters being tried by the Federal Government.

    Some of the journalists had arrived at the court a little after 8am and secured seats thereafter on the last row, awaiting the commencement of court’s sitting.

    Few minutes to 9am, an official of the court announced that those who were unable to secure a seat should vacate the courtroom because the judge would not allow anyone to stand when the court starts sitting.

    While those without seats, including lawyers, were making their way out of the courtroom, another official of the court and a security personnel attached to the court came to where journalists were sitting and asked them to stand up and exit the courtroom immediately.

    When asked why, they said the presiding judge, Justice Abdulmalik, gave them the instruction not to allow journalists inside her court.

    When th newsmen told the court workers that the trial of the alleged coup plotters was of public importance and that there was no court order that proceedings should be conducted without media presence, the officials insisted they were acting on the judge’s instruction.

    Shortly after the journalists were successfully evicted, the security official locked the door.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), however, observed that Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, later arrived at the FHC at about 10:35am, and headed to Court 6, venue of the trial.

    It would be recalled that Justice Abdulmalik had, on Jan. 23, walked out a reporter from NAN from covering the two separate suits filed by a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, and the Kabiru Turaki-led leadership of the PDP, which had now been decided by the court.

    When the judge came in and saw the reporter standing by a side in the courtroom, she asked: “May I know who you are?”

    When the reporter responded that he is a journalist, she ordered him out of the courtroom since the reporter could not secure a seat.

    NAN reports that Justice Abdulmalik had, April 22, ordered the remand of the alleged coup plotters in the Department of State Services (DSS) custody.

    The judge, in a ruling, also ordered accelerated hearing in the case.

    Justice Abdulmalik equally ordered the DSS to give the lawyers and family members access to the defendants within a reasonable time.

    The judge then adjourned the matter until April 27 for commencement of trial and for hearing of the bail applications of the defendants.

    The order followed the arraignment of the six defendants by the AGF on behalf of the Federal Government.

    The Federal Government had filed a 13-count charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026, against the defendants.

    The suspects are retired Maj-Gen. Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Capt. (NN) Erasmus Ochegobia Victor , Insp Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni and Abdulkadir Sani, listed as 1st to 6th defendants respectively.

    Although the former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, is not named as a defendant in the charge, he is listed as being at large.

    The defendants were accused of alleged treason and terrorism, including failure to disclose security intelligence and money laundering linked to terrorism financing, among other charges.

    The matter in currently ongoing as at the time of filing the report.

  • Police constable recruitment applicants sit for exam April 28-30 in Enugu

    Police constable recruitment applicants sit for exam April 28-30 in Enugu

    Police constable recruitment applicants sit for exam April 28-30 in Enugu

     

    Police Command in Enugu State says there will be written examination for successful candidates from the physical and credentials screening in the ongoing Police Constables Recruitment from April 28 to April 30.

     

    The Command’s Spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, in a statement on Sunday in Enugu, said that the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force had scheduled the examination to be held for three days in Enugu.

     

    Ndukwe said that the examination, which is for both General Duty and Specialist applicants, would take place at the Police Detective College, Agbani Road, Enugu.

     

    According to him, successful applicants are advised to visit www.npfapplication.psc.gov.ng to print their Examination Invitation Card, which contains the specific date and time of the examination.

     

     

    “Applicants, who earlier printed invitation slips indicating April 27, 2026 as their examination date, are advised to revisit the portal and reprint the Card to reflect the correct examination dates,” he said.

     

    He said that candidates are required to come to the examination venue with a pen, National Identification Number (NIN) Slip from NIMC, bearing a clear photograph and printed Examination Invitation Card.

     

    The spokesman said that the candidates must appear on shorts, T-shirt and canvas shoes, all white.

     

    Ndukwe reiterated the Police Service Commission’s warning that the recruitment process is completely free of charge, and cautions applicants to beware of job racketeers, scammers, or any form of financial inducement.

     

     

    “Anyone found engaging in such illegal acts will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he said.

  • Barr. Nnanwike Obah Urges Igbo-Etiti Stakeholders To Unite Behind Gov. Mbah’s 2027 Re-election

    Barr. Nnanwike Obah Urges Igbo-Etiti Stakeholders To Unite Behind Gov. Mbah’s 2027 Re-election

    Barr. Nnanwike Obah Urges Igbo-Etiti Stakeholders To Unite Behind Gov. Mbah’s 2027 Re-election

     

    A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Barr. Nnanwike Anthony Obah, has called on Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area (LGA) Stakeholders to unite behind Gov. Peter Mbah’s 2027 re-election.

     

    Obah made the call during the APC Igbo-Etiti LGA Stakeholders’ general meeting held at the weekend at the party’s secretariat in Ogbede in Igbo-Etiti.

     

    The stakeholders’ meeting evolved beyond a routine political gathering into a defining moment of strategic alignment, drawing a massive turnout of party faithful, grassroots mobilisers, and key stakeholders across the LGA.

     

    Speaking with clarity, conviction, and a deep sense of responsibility, Obah made a passionate and unambiguous appeal to all stakeholders to embrace peace, unity, and internal cohesion as the only viable pathway to sustained political relevance and electoral success.

     

     

    He dismissed insinuations of division within the party, pointing instead to the visible cooperation among leaders as “a strong signal that unity is not only possible but already within reach”.

     

    Obah emphasised that peace is not optional but fundamental, describing it as the indispensable pillar upon which every meaningful political progress must stand.

     

    According to him, no structure, no matter how formidable, can withstand the consequences of disunity, and no ambition, no matter how noble, can be realised in an atmosphere of discord.

     

    He further reminded stakeholders of the enviable political pedigree of Igbo-Etiti, a local government that had consistently remained ahead of others in Enugu State and beyond by producing leaders, who have occupied some of the highest offices in the land.

     

     

    “These include the positions of Executive Governor, Deputy Governor, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Chief Judge of the State, a two time Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a National Chairman of a ruling political party, and notably the first indigenous Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, among other distinguished offices,” he said.

     

    Obah stressed that such a legacy places an even greater burden on present leaders to preserve unity as the foundation upon which these historic achievements were built.

     

    Anchoring his position on the broader political landscape of Enugu State, Obah firmly linked the stability of Igbo-Etiti to the future of the state leadership, stressing that the re-election of Gov. Mbah in 2027 is directly tied to the level of unity and peace within party structures at the grassroots.

     

    The APC chieftain maintained that Igbo-Etiti must not be found wanting at a critical time when collective responsibility is required to consolidate ongoing progress in the state.

     

     

    He asserted that with unity among stakeholders and party faithful, “Igbo-Etiti has no option than to appreciate and reciprocate the remarkable achievements of Gov. Mbah, both within Igbo-Etiti LGA and Enugu State in general, by ensuring overwhelming support for his re-election.

     

    He reminded stakeholders that the strength of any political party lies not in individual prominence but in collective discipline, mutual respect, and a shared vision.

     

    “Only through genuine reconciliation and sustained peace, the party will mobilise effectively, inspire confidence among the electorate, and deliver overwhelming support for the Governor’s continuity in office,” he said.

     

    Demonstrating that leadership must go beyond rhetoric, Obah reinforced his message with action by significantly sponsoring the hosting of the meeting and, in addition, making a cash donation of ₦500,000 to members present to aid their transportation back home.

     

     

    He said, “This gesture further underscored my commitment to inclusiveness, solidarity, and grassroots engagement.”

     

    The impact of his message and actions resonated strongly across the gathering, earning widespread admiration and reinforcing his standing as a leader deeply committed to unity, peace, and the collective political future of Igbo-Etiti and Enugu State at large.

     

    Indeed, peace remains the only yardstick through which unity can be sustained and progress guaranteed. In the pursuit of Gov. Mbah’s 2027 re-election. Igbo-Etiti must rise above division and speak with one voice. As clearly demonstrated, Barr. Obah, has not only preached this path but has exemplified it. To whom much is given, much is expected.

     

    APC party leaders that attended the stakeholders’ meeting included: the Local Government Chairman, Dr Eric Ogbonnia Odo; APC Chairman Igbo-Etiti LGA, Hon Paul Ike; House of Assembly member representing Igbo-Etiti West Constituency, Hon. William Amuka; and Chairman, Enugu State Road Fund, Hon. Chidera Odo.

     

    Former Local Government Chairmen, Engr. Festus Ozoemena; and Hon. Mathias Ozo, Former two times member of house of Assembly and the current Secretary of Igbo-Etiti LGA, Hon. James Akadu, APC Auditor Enugu State Chapter, who represented the State Party Chairman (Dr Martins Chinwike), Barr. Nnanwike Obah among other party faithful.

  • Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi

    The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has disclosed the reason for its refusal to approve a venue for a lecture by former presidential candidate Peter Obi.

    Naija News reports that Obi earlier announced that he was scheduled to deliver a keynote lecture at the university by 9 am before proceeding to Ibadan for an opposition party’s summit, but was informed that the event had been called off.

    The former Anambra State governor added that the incident was not isolated, noting that similar cancellations had occurred more than 10 times.

    However, speaking in a statement on Sunday, OAU stated that it declined approval for the proposed venue due to the organisers’ short notice.

    The institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, said organisers failed to provide adequate details about the event and the invited guests until Friday, a day before the programme.

    According to the statement, the short notice made it impossible for the university to make the necessary security and logistical arrangements required for hosting high-profile personalities.

    “It is important to note that events involving high-profile personalities of such standing require adequate prior notification to the university authorities because it will enable the institution to make necessary logistical and security arrangements, including proper liaison with relevant security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), in order to ensure the safety of the guests, members of the university community and the general public.

    “Consequently, given the short notice and the attendant inability to complete these critical arrangements, the university authorities could not approve the use of Oduduwa Hall for the event as requested by the organisers,” the statement read in part.

    It stressed that the decision was taken in the interest of safety and adherence to established protocols, noting that it was not a reflection of disregard for Obi’s person or status.

  • Aviation fuel hike: Stakeholders seek FG’s intervention to ease 2026 Hajj operation

    Aviation fuel hike: Stakeholders seek FG’s intervention to ease 2026 Hajj operation

    Aviation stakeholders have called on the federal and state governments to urgently address the increase in aviation fuel prices to ease the transportation of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.

    The stakeholders, under the aegis of Concerned Aviation Stakeholders, said something needs to be done immediately to save the 2026 Hajj operation from severe logistical and financial challenges, following the rising cost of aviation fuel.

    President of the group, Alhaji Bukalti Usaman Gamawa, made the call in a statement on Sunday.

    Gamawa said d that the skyrocketing cost of Jet A1 aviation fuel had continued to threaten the airlift of thousands of Nigerian pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    “Many of the airlines contracted for the 2026 Hajj operations are expected to lease aircraft to meet capacity demands. With the current fuel price increase on both legs, much of their projected profit margin has already been wiped out.

    “In some cases, airlines may end up operating at break-even or even at a loss, effectively flying for free after covering lease and operational expenses.

    “If urgent action is not taken, some airlines may find it financially impossible to even commence operations from Nigeria or sustain return operations from Saudi Arabia,” he said.

    The president of the group said that the federal and state Governments no longer provide direct subsidies for Hajj operations in Nigeria.

    He, however, said that stakeholders believed that urgent policy measures, like pricing regulation, forex support, or strategic fuel supply arrangements, may be necessary to prevent the operation from collapsing.

    Gamawa said that without swift intervention, coordination, and emergency action from the government, regulators, airlines, and marketers, the 2026 Hajj operation may witness one of the highest fare increases in history.

    He said that, in the worst-case scenario, it could even witness operational failure.

    “In simple terms, the soaring cost of Jet A1 on both the Nigerian and Saudi sides is the clearest reason why Hajj fares are expected to rise sharply in 2026.

    “When Hajj contracts were negotiated and signed, Jet A1 was selling at approximately N1,000 per litre in Nigeria, while the average price on the Saudi side was around $0.68 per litre.

    “Airlines structured their fares, logistics, and operational plans around these benchmarks. Today, however, the situation has changed dramatically.

    Across major departure points such as Abuja, Kano, Lagos, Maiduguri, Yola, Sokoto and Birnin Kebbi, Jet A1 is now being sold for as much as N3,000 per litre.

    “This represents a 200 per cent increase from the original price used in contract projections,” he said.

    According to him, this sharp rise has placed airlines in a difficult financial position.

    “If they are forced to absorb the increased fuel cost, many may be operating at a loss.

    “If pilgrims are made to absorb it, Hajj fares will rise sharply. If government intervenes, it may require emergency support mechanisms despite the removal of Hajj subsidies in Nigeria,” he said.

    Gamawa said that for a single aircraft consuming 70,000 litres of Jet A1 per flight, that at the contract benchmark of N1,000/litre, N70 million would be required, while at N2,500/litre N175 million would be required.

    “Even if the Nigerian government or local suppliers stabilise Jet A1 prices for the first leg of the Hajj operation from Nigeria to Jeddah or Medina, the return flight remains a major unresolved challenge.

    “The price of Jet A1 on the Saudi side has reportedly risen from around $0.68 per litre at the time the Hajj contract was signed to approximately $1.40 per litre now.

    “That is more than a 105 per cent increase in dollar terms. For airlines, this creates a double burden: Outbound leg,” he said.

    He said that unlike Nigeria, where intervention may come through policy or local refinery arrangements, airlines lifting pilgrims back home from Jeddah must buy fuel at prevailing international market rates in foreign currency.

  • Back to School, Back to Greatness: Repete Celebrates Students’ Resumption with Hope and Vision

    Back to School, Back to Greatness: Repete Celebrates Students’ Resumption with Hope and Vision

    In a time when leadership is measured not just by ambition but by empathy, vision, and connection with the people, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega—fondly known as Repete—has once again demonstrated why he stands as a beacon of hope for the people of Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

    With a message that resonates deeply across classrooms and homes, Repete has extended heartfelt greetings and prayers to pupils, students, teachers, and parents—an initiative that reflects not only his political aspiration but his genuine commitment to human capital development and societal progress.

    Described by many as a leader with a difference, Repete’s outreach underscores the critical role of education as the bedrock of national transformation. His message—rich in compassion and forward-thinking ideals—goes beyond mere words. It is a call to purpose, a reminder of the limitless potential within every learner, and a reassurance that their dreams are valid, supported, and achievable.

    In his goodwill message, he emphasizes the importance of knowledge, discipline, opportunity, and peace—values that form the cornerstone of a thriving society. By recognizing the contributions of teachers as nation-builders, acknowledging parents as foundational pillars, and celebrating students as the future, Repete positions himself as a leader who understands the ecosystem of progress.

    Observers note that this strategic engagement reflects a broader vision—one that prioritizes inclusive growth, educational advancement, and sustainable development. It is a vision anchored on the belief that a better-educated populace inevitably leads to a stronger and more prosperous nation.

    Beyond the symbolism, Repete’s approach speaks volumes about his leadership style: accessible, people-centered, and deeply rooted in service. His alignment with progressive ideals and his emphasis on unity and collective advancement further reinforce his growing appeal among constituents.

    As the political landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains clear—Repete is not just seeking office; he is building a movement driven by hope, service, and a shared dream for a brighter tomorrow.

    For the people of Ibadan North, this is more than a campaign—it is the emergence of a leader ready to inspire change, empower communities, and redefine representation.

    Indeed, with leaders like Repete, the future is not just imagined—it is within reach.

  • Gov. Mbah Celebrates Jim Nwobodo’s Legacies, Patriotism on Vanguard’s Lifetime Achievement Award

    Gov. Mbah Celebrates Jim Nwobodo’s Legacies, Patriotism on Vanguard’s Lifetime Achievement Award

    Gov. Mbah Celebrates Jim Nwobodo’s Legacies, Patriotism on Vanguard’s Lifetime Achievement Award

     

    The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, at the weekend, joined the management and board of Vanguard Media Limited, publishers of Vanguard Newspapers, in honouring elder statesman and former Second Republic Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, describing him as a man who stood out in service to his people.

     

    Mbah recalled that decades after his time as governor, Nwobodo’s legacies still loomed large across the present Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu States.

     

    The governor spoke at the 2025 Vanguard Personality of the Year Award ceremony in Lagos, where the octogenarian received the Vanguard Lifetime Achievement Award.

     

     

    “This is a fitting tribute to your life of service to the nation and humanity in various capacities, as well as your towering legacies that have continued to stand the test of time,” he said.

     

    Presenting the award to Nwobodo on behalf of Vanguard Media Limited, Mbah added, “First, I would like to thank the management and board of Vanguard for this recognition and for allowing me the privilege to present this award to our selfless elder statesman.”

     

    He noted the former governor’s exploits as Chairman of Rangers International, as well as Minister of Youth and Sports, during which Nigeria excelled at the Olympics and the African Cup of Nations (AFCON ’94) in Tunisia.

     

     

    “Jim, as we fondly call him, represents a whole lot for us. As governor, at just 39, he left bold legacies virtually across what we refer to today as the South East. He was the governor of three states – Anambra State, Enugu State, and part of Ebonyi State.

     

    “As a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, he epitomised courage and patriotism.

     

    “So, it is with a deep sense of pride and profound honour that I present this Lifetime Achievement Award to a distinguished son of Enugu State and a patriotic Nigerian.

     

     

    “On behalf of my family, the Government, and the good people of Enugu State, I convey our warm congratulations to you,” Mbah concluded.

     

    Wife of the elder statesman, Dr Patricia Nwobodo, and other prominent Nigerians stood by the former governor as he received the award.

  • Enugu CP Appoints CSP Imo As Commander New VCRU Unit, Cautions Against Rights Violation

    Enugu CP Appoints CSP Imo As Commander New VCRU Unit, Cautions Against Rights Violation

    Enugu CP Appoints CSP Imo As Commander New VCRU Unit, Cautions Against Rights Violation

    The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr Mamman Giwa, has appointed CSP Henry Imo as the Commander of the new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the police command.

    The commissioner announced the appointment on Saturday in Enugu after operatives of the new unit ended an intensive training in human rights, as well as social and emotional intelligence.

    The state police boss also announced ASP Ebenezer Godwin as the unit’s State Media Liaison Officer.

    He said that the new unit was created in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Olatunji Disu.

    “The VCRU, a brainchild of the IGP, has, among other responsibilities, the core mandate of investigating, responding to, and suppressing violent crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and other related offences through strictly intelligence-driven operations.

    “The unit is also expected to operate at all times in full compliance with constitutional provisions, the Nigeria Police Act 2020, and applicable international human rights standards.

    “The unit will remain accountable and serving as a bridge of trust between the Nigeria Police Force and the public.

    “The former Crack Tactical Squad Base at Golf Estate, Enugu, along the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, has been designated as the operational base of the unit,” he said.

    The commissioner said that operatives of the unit had undergone intensive training to enhance professionalism and guide their relationships with members of the public.

    He noted that a dedicated Complaint Response Desk had also been established for the Unit, with 08039382015 provided for members of the public to report complaints against personnel of the unit.

    “Pending the formal unveiling of the unit by the IGP, I charge the unit’s operatives to remain guided by its core mandates and clearly defined standard operating procedures.

    “The command is reassuring residents of Enugu State of its unwavering commitment to tackling violent crimes and solicited the continued support and cooperation of the public,” the commissioner said.

  • Ohanaeze, Bianca Ojukwu Endorse Mbah for 2nd Tenure, Extol Tinubu’s Progressive South-East Agenda

    Ohanaeze, Bianca Ojukwu Endorse Mbah for 2nd Tenure, Extol Tinubu’s Progressive South-East Agenda

    Ohanaeze, Bianca Ojukwu Endorse Mbah for 2nd Tenure, Extol Tinubu’s Progressive South-East Agenda

     

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State chapter, at the weekend, endorsed Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State for a second term in office, citing his visionary, pragmatic, and transformative leadership, urging stakeholders and the people to rally round him.

     

    Rising from a well-attended expanded stakeholders meeting held at the iconic Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s strategic progressive projects, interventions, and appointments in the South-East in general and Enugu State in particular.

     

    The meeting during which Ohanaeze handed the Ofo (symbol of authority and justice) to Mbah, brought together leaders of thought, traditional rulers, market leaders, professionals, youth and women groups as well as Presidents-General of Town Unions.

     

    They include the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, and the President-General of the body, Sen. Joahn Azuta-Mbata, represented by Livingstone Wechie, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Rivers State, who both hailed Mbah’s transformative leadership and endorsed his re-election.

     

     

    Ohanaeze said Mbah’s leadership had “demonstrated a clear commitment to infrastructural development, economic revitalisation, security enhancement, and human capital development across the state.”

     

    The organisation equally predicated the governor’s endorsement on “sustained observance of the unwritten but respected zoning arrangement of the governorship seat in Enugu State since 1999” to foster equity, unity, and political stability among the constituent zones.

     

    “In recognition of his outstanding performance, strategic vision, and commitment to the continued progress of Enugu State, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State Chapter, unanimously endorses Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as the sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Enugu State,” it stated.

     

    Mrs. Ojukwu, on her path, described Mbah as a visionary reconstructing Enugu State for the future and massive prosperity.

     

     

    “Your name is Peter, and upon this rock the progress, development, and future of Enugu State is built; and that tomorrow is here. We look forward to four more years of visionary leadership,” Mrs. Ojukwu said.

     

    The meeting further reviewed national developments and acknowledged President Tinubu’s ongoing efforts toward economic reforms, infrastructural development, and national stability.

     

    They cited the successful concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport; approval of extension of the national gas pipeline to Enugu to unlock the state’s gas reserves; ongoing reconstruction of Enugu-Port Harcourt and Enugu–Onitsha highways, the 700-metre flyover at Eke Obinagu to the ongoing dualisation of the Enugu–Abakaliki road by Gov. Mbah and the speedy reconstruction of the New Artisan dual carriage Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway.

     

    They also noted that whereas no Igbo son or daughter was considered fit to head any military or paramilitary agency in the eight years preceding Tinubu, the President consecutively appointed Enugu sons – Air Marshal Sunday Aneke and Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (Rtd.) as Chief of the Air Staff and Chief of the Naval Staff, respectively.

     

     

    Meanwhile, the Vice President-General of Ohanaeze representing Enugu State, Prof. Fredrick Eze, said Mbah’s endorsement aligned with the core mandates of the apex Igbo organisation, which includes “to provide good leadership to Igbo people by identifying the credible paths to their progress.”

     

    “Therefore, this special occasion perfectly fits into the core mandates of Ohanaeze. We will not shy away from telling our people the truth,” Prof. Eze emphasised.

     

    The President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State Chapter, High Chief Uche Obisi, commended Mbah for inclusive governance in healthcare, education, infrastructure, security, transportation and agriculture, which is transforming the rural communities.

     

    Responding, Gov. Mbah commended Ohanaeze for not only endorsing him, but also for acknowledging the President Tinubu’s efforts in Enugu State and the South East, saying the onus was on every Igbo elite to rise above narrow self-interest and invest in bridges that would serve future generations.

     

     

    “The Enugu State Chapter of Ohanaeze has not only endorsed me as their son, but they are extending that trust beyond the Niger. They have asked me to convey their appreciation and goodwill to the president.

     

    “This is very remarkable and strategic. We must not miss the gravity of this occasion. It is also a demonstration that Ohaneze Ndigbo, Enugu chapter, is willing to think beyond its circles, to think beyond today, and to think strategically,” he stated.

     

    Continuing, he said, “We are not people known for short-term reaction. We have always been known for strategic thinking. I am glad that the Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev Samuel Obiajulu Ike, mentioned copiously the late Michael Okpara, a leader par excellence whose legacies are still a heartwarming reference point to date.

     

     

    “But when it became necessary as a leader of National Council for Nigerian Citizens, NCNC, in 1964 to have a handshake across the Niger, Michael Okpara did not hesitate. He forged an alliance with the Action Group, which birthed the United Progressive Grand Alliance, UPGA.

     

    “So we have forbears, who knew when it was necessary to think strategically and make the right decision, not for building tiny kingdoms. They were driven by common interests, common purpose, and the future of Ndigbo, not selfish interest.”

     

    He assured that he would continue to live up to the trust reposed in him by the people, adding that the Igbo spirit was already finding expression in the over 2,000 ongoing and completed projects and major reforms repositioning the state as a preferred destination for business, investment, tourism, and living that every Igbo would be proud.