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  • APC commends Umahi for avoiding rift with Gov. Nwifuru

    APC commends Umahi for avoiding rift with Gov. Nwifuru

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi has commended the Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, for resisting pressures to engage in a rift with Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that insinuations were rife in the state that the acclaimed “father and son” were at loggerheads over the control of the state’s party structure.

    The Chairman of APC in Ebonyi, Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha, however told NAN on Friday, that it was in the state’s interest that there was no Umahi-Nwifuru rift.

    “Umahi as a leader has made his marks in Ebonyi and Nigeria, realising in the process that there is time for everything.

    “There is a time to reign, step aside and stand as a father.

    “A good dancer dances with wisdom, leaves the stage when the ovation is loudest and refuses to yield to pressure to remain on stage,” he said.

    Okoro-Emegha said that Umahi’s debunk of the insinuations of conflict portrayed him as a patriot who did not want Ebonyi to undergo the political upheavals witnessed in some states.

    “He admitted to have been put under from within to tell the governor certain things but he never did so.

    “His declaration of leaving the governor to decide the party’s affairs is a welcome development as the governor is the party’s leader in the state.

    Read Also: Umahi: Political jobbers trying to pit me against Governor Nwifuru

    “The governor knows what is good for the party and when he succeeds, the party succeeds,” he said.

    He urged party faithful to always ignore the antics of naysayers and be committed to its ideals for continuous success.

    It would be recalled that Umahi while declaring open, the commencement of work on the Ebonyi section of 118.km trans-Saharan super highway said he never signed a one-term agreement with Nwifuru.

    “I fought battles to make Nwifuru governor without conditions and I will support him for eight years.

    “I was in control of the state party structure for eight years as the governor and will therefore, not interfere with Nwifuru’s leadership.

    “People think I will return to struggle for power after leaving office but I am not available for such distractions,” the minister had said.

    (NAN)

  • Umahi, Nwifuru wade into community, hospital face-off

    Umahi, Nwifuru wade into community, hospital face-off

    Minister of Works David Umahi and Governor Francis Nwifuru have waded into the face-off between Uburu Community in Ohaozara local government area and the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH).

    Based on the intervention, the community ordered residents of the area to end protests and petitions against the management of the hospital.

    There have been protests against the management of the health institution since last week causing tension and affecting medical and other human activities in  the hospital.

    The Traditional leadership of the community ordered the protesters to end all forms of protest and petition against the hospital for the sake of peace.

    A statement signed by the community’s President General, Odi Nicholas Enyi on behalf of its traditional leadership reads: “The Uburu Traditional Leadership and esteemed stakeholders of Uburu, following careful consideration of the recent appeals made by Engr. David Umahi, Minister of Works and Founder of David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), and recognizing the intervention of Governor Francis Nwifuru, hereby issue the following statement:

    “We acknowledge and appreciate the concerns raised regarding the ongoing situation at DUFUTH and the importance of fostering a harmonious environment for the hospital’s continued growth and success. 

    “We understand the necessity for peace and collaboration to effectively address any grievances and ensure the optimal functioning of this vital institution, which serves not only our community but the wider region.

    “In alignment with the appeals made by Engr. David Umahi, we urge all members of Uburu community, and indeed all stakeholders, to cease any form of protest or petition writing against the current leadership of DUFUTH, led by  the CMD, Professor Uzoma Agwu. 

    “We recognize the importance of allowing the CMD to fulfill her tenure and allow for the judgment of her leadership to be based on the hospital’s progress and achievements.

    “We reiterate our commitment to supporting the growth and development of DUFUTH, so that the hospital can continue to providing critical healthcare, particularly to cancer patients across the region. We acknowledge the significant contributions the hospital can make and recognize the importance of an atmosphere of peace.

    Read Also: No rift between Nwifuru, Umahi, says Ebonyi APC Chairman

    “Furthermore, we welcome the intervention of His Excellency, Governor Francis Nwifuru, and express our confidence in his ability to bring about a resolution to any outstanding issues. We pledge our full cooperation and support in his efforts to ensure the continued success of DUFUTH.

    “The Uburu Traditional Leadership calls upon all members of our community to embrace peace and collaboration, allowing for a conducive environment for the hospital to flourish. We encourage everyone to join in prayers for the continued growth and success of DUFUTH.

    “We are dedicated to working constructively with all stakeholders to ensure that DUFUTH fulfills its mandate and serves as a beacon of hope and healing for all “

  • No rift between Nwifuru, Umahi, says Ebonyi APC Chairman

    No rift between Nwifuru, Umahi, says Ebonyi APC Chairman

    The Chairman of the All Progressives Party (APC) in Ebonyi State, Stanley Okoro-Emegha, has debunked rumours of a rift between the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, and his predecessor and Minister of Works, David Umahi.

    He stated this in an interview at the party’s head office in Abakaliki, capital of the state .

    Emegha, who spoke ahead of the kick-off of the party’s sensitisation tour across the 13 local government areas, said Nwifuru and Umahi were enjoying a good working relationship.

    He explained that the essence of the sensitisation tour was to galvanise the party and ascertain their challenge.

    “The essence is not far-fetched. One is to reawaken the spirit of our members. It is also essential to pay a visit to the home sector of our party to find out their challenges and look at the area where we can assist them as a party. It is not good after the campaign and election, we have not visited them again,” he stated. 

    He further explained there was a need to replace party officials that have been elevated to other positions, even as he dismissed crises in local government areas.

    “And again, if you have a child that is staying far away, it is important that you visit him from time to time. There are no issues in any local government area.

    ” We want to go and find out because, in some wards and LGAs, there are some officers who have been elevated to other positions like supervisory councillors, and management committee members. We also want to see how we can do a possible replacement.

    “It is to the glory of God. The Governor must have viewed it from the angle that if they go to other states, there is a crisis in the party, but in Ebonyi State, there is no crisis. 

    “We know that managing human beings is very difficult. But it has been a team effort, not only me, and that might be why the governor endorsed me.

    “How can there be a crisis between the governor and the minister of works? APC is a principled party, such that everybody knows where his work starts and ends. There is nothing like a problem between the two of them. 

    Read Also: Nwifuru suspends three Commissioners for absenteeism

    “The minister and the governor have a good working relationship. The governor and the minister are aware of this tour. They are the leaders of the party, and we are caretakers.”

    Emegha said the party is working hard to bring on board more members of opposition parties so that they will join hands with Governor or Nwifuru to move the state forward.

    “On a daily basis, we keep going to the opposition to join the party. Very soon, we are going to do a programme in Ezza South where all the people who worked against APC in eight local government areas will come back. So there is going to be a heavy defection at the grassroots, where all the structures will join APC.

    “I have visited Julius Ama, Ochiri Edda in Lagos, and I know by Easter, he is going to give me a response. I am appealing to all Eboyians who are into politics to come and join us. It is a big family. They should come and contribute their ideas. 

    “Thank God that the governor is doing much, but as one man, he cannot do it alone. He needs ideas from other people,” he said

  • BREAKING: Nwifuru sacks two aides over gross misconduct

    BREAKING: Nwifuru sacks two aides over gross misconduct

    Ebonyi state governor, Francis Nwifuru has sacked two advicers for alleged gross misconduct.

    The affected officials are Mr. Nnannna Nwangele -Special Assistant to the Governor on Airport Security, and Mr. Felix Okemini – Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security (Ebonyi North). 

    The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Grace Umezurike announced the sack in a statement on Tuesday.

    The statement ordered the affected officials to handover all government properties in their possession to the Secretary to Ebonyi State Government, not later than 4pm today March 18, 2025. 

    Read Also: Nwifuru suspends three Commissioners for absenteeism

    “The officers should, henceforth not be seen anywhere around Government House or participate in any Government activity”, the statement added.

    The sack comes less than 24 hours after the governor suspended three Commissioners for absenteeism.

    The affected Commissioners are: Solomon Azi (Grants and Donor Agencies), Victor Chukwu (Environment) and Ikeuwa Omebe(Rural Development). 

    The Commissioners were suspended for one month for being absent without any permission during the state executive council meeting held on Monday. Ends

  • Nwifuru suspends three Commissioners for absenteeism

    Nwifuru suspends three Commissioners for absenteeism

    Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru has suspended three commissioners for absenteeism.

    The affected Commissioners are; Solomon Azi (Grants and Donor Agencies); Victor Chukwu (Environment) and Ikeuwa Omebe (Rural Development. 

    The Commissioners were suspended for one month for being absent without any permission during the State Executive Council meeting on Monday.

    Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Jude Okpor disclosed this on Tuesday at a briefing on the outcome of the executive council meeting.

    He noted that the Governor warned against absenteeism and lackadaisical attitude to work by public servants.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates Ebonyi governor Nwifuru at 50

    Okpor further said Nwifuru directed that the suspended commissioners be relieved of all the privileges attached to their offices within the duration of the suspension. 

    He stated the Governor warned all the contractors handling government projects in the State to expedite efforts in accordance with contractual agreements.

    He threatened that government would not hesitate to use all legal means to enforce compliance.

  • Ebonyi: Nwifuru’s achievements responsible for mass defection into APC – Emegha

    Ebonyi: Nwifuru’s achievements responsible for mass defection into APC – Emegha

    The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State, Chief Stanley Okoroemegha, has said that the sterling achievements of Governor Francis Nwuifuru are responsible for the mass defections from the opposition parties into the ruling APC.

    Emegha stated this in a statement by his Special Assistant (SA) on Media and Public Affairs, Prince Chijioke Agwu.

    Agwu was reacting to a statement by the spokesman of the opposition in the state, Mr. Moses Idika, against the APC Chairman.

    The statement reads: “The attention of the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State, Chief Stanley Okoroemegha, has been drawn to a statement issued on Thursday by Mr. Moses Idika, who described himself as spokesman of AnyiGaemeya Movement. 

    “AnyiGaemeya Movement is believed to be a political association of all the followers of the 2023 PDP Governorship candidate in Ebonyi State, Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii(Anyichuks).

    “Moses Idika’s statement was a purported reaction to the comment the APC Chairman made on Wednesday while he was receiving defectors from the PDP led by former Deputy Chairman of PDP in the state, Barr. Ifeanyi Nworie, into the APC family.

    “At the event, Chief Emegha had commended the latest defectors from the PDP for their wise decision to join APC, assuring them that more defectors were being expected from their former party into the APC for the overall interest of the State.

    Read Also: Invictus Games: Ebonyi soldier secures Nigeria’s first medal in Canada

    “He noted that all well-meaning Ebonyians are coming on board to support Governor Francis Nwifuru because of his wonderful achievements in the state. He added that he had been in talks with many leaders of the opposition parties in the state including the 2023 Governorship candidate, Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, to come and join hands with Governor Nwifuru to move the state forward.

    “The APC Chairman was therefore surprised to see how Mr. Idika carefully avoided the issue of defection and attempted to twist the innocent comment just to score some political points.

    “For the avoidance of any doubt, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State Chief Stanley Okoroemegha is well-known for his relentless zeal and propensity to woo opposition leaders and members into the APC; an action which has produced undeniable positive results in the fortunes of the party to the chargrin of the opposition in the state.

    “Mr. Idika should know that he is just a mere supporter and follower of Chief Ifeanyi Odii, and so, will not always be privy to many of his high-profile political engagements especially one that has to do with other political parties.

    “Chief Stanley Okoroemegha will continue to reach out to all the leaders of the state especially those in the opposition flank, to join the ruling party for the overall interest of peace, unity and development of Ebonyi State under the able leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Prince Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, FNIOB, GGCEHF, Executive Governor of Ebonyi”

  • Don’t toe Ekpa’s footsteps, Nwifuru warns Ebonyi scholarship beneficiaries

    Don’t toe Ekpa’s footsteps, Nwifuru warns Ebonyi scholarship beneficiaries

    Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru has warned the 206 scholarship students of the state who have been sent to the United Kingdom (U.K.) for further studies not to toe the path of Simon Ekpa who was sent to Finland for the same purpose and he became a problem to the state and country.

    Ekpa became a Biafra political activist after his studies abroad.

    While in Finland, he declared the activation of the Biafra Government In Exile (BGIE), and made himself the leader-Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile.

    He has been accused of causing insecurity in the South East through his activities.

    The Biafra agitator is facing terrorism charges in Finland.

    Nwifuru while addressing the 206 scholarship students in the state at state airport, Onueke, Ezza South Local Government Area before their departure to U.K said the state would regret sending them for the overseas scholarship program if they toe Ekpa’s path

    He urged them to be good ambassadors of the state and focus on their studies to achieve excellence.

    Nwifuru implored the students to return to the state after their programmes to give back to the state.

    He said, “The achievements we are expecting from you are very heavy, the new innovation we are expecting from you is very heavy.

    “Don’t dare to think of how to disappoint us, we will never take it and we must compel you to deliver.

    “Remember our brother that is causing (trouble), that is asking people to kill people in this state, Simon Ekpa.

    Read Also: Umahi endorses Nwifuru for second tenure 

    “Remember, he was sent to Finland to study on scholarship, don’t toe his paths. If you do, we will regret sending you abroad for this scholarship. Do you want us to regret sending you abroad? So, I want you to know this.

    “This will justify the huge amount our state committed to ensure that you attain this great height for the overall benefit of our dear state.

    “As you embark on this transformative journey to world-class institutions abroad and across Nigeria, let me remind you of the immense responsibility that comes with this privilege.

    “You are not just students, you are ambassadors of our state. Your actions, your words, and your achievements will reflect not only on you but on our collective identity as Ebonyi people.”

  • Don’t toe Ekpa’s footsteps, Nwifuru warns Ebonyi scholarship beneficiaries

    Don’t toe Ekpa’s footsteps, Nwifuru warns Ebonyi scholarship beneficiaries

    Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru has warned the 206 scholarship students of the state who have been sent to the United Kingdom (UK) for further studies not to toe the path of Simon Ekpa.

    Ekpa became a Biafra political activist after his studies abroad.

    While in Finland, he declared the activation of the Biafra Government In Exile (BGIE), and made himself the leader-Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile.

    He has been accused of causing insecurity in South East through his activities.

    The Biafra agitator is facing terrorism charges in Finland.

    Nwifuru, while addressing the 206 scholarship students in  Ezza South local government area before their departure to the UK, said the State will regret sending them for the oversea scholarship programme if they toe Ekpa’s path 

    He urged them to be good ambassadors of the state and focus on their studies to achieve excellence.

    Nwifuru implored them to return after their programmes to give back to the state.

    He said, “The achievements we are expecting from you is very heavy, the new innovation we are expecting from you is very heavy. 

    “Don’t dare to think of how to disappoint us, we will never take it and we must compel you to deliver.

    “Remember our brother that is causing(trouble), that is asking people to kill people in this state, Simon Ekpa. 

    “Remember, he was sent to Finland to study on scholarship, don’t toe his paths. If you do, we must regret sending you abroad for this scholars. Do you want us to regret sending you abroad? So, I want you to know this.

    “This will justify the huge amount our state committed to ensure that you attain this great height for the overall benefit of our dear state.

    “As you embark on this transformative journey to world-class institutions abroad and across Nigeria, let me remind you of the immense responsibility that comes with this privilege. 

    “You are not just students, you are Ambassadors of our state. Your actions, your words, and your achievements will reflect not only on you but on our collective identity as Ebonyi people.

    ” At all times. In your private and public undertakings, be guided by this. We have expectations that you will graduate on record times and return to contribute your quota towards the development of Ebonyi State. 

    “Your case must be different from that of Simon Ekpa who instead of reciprocating the gesture of sending him abroad for scholarship turned round to constitute himself a nuisance to the entire Country. We expect you to graduate on record times as I said before and return immediately as this will pave the way for others to benefit.

    “Therefore,I urge you to immerse yourselves fully in your studies, embrace the cultures you encounter, and build networks that will be invaluable to your growth. But remember, your ultimate mission lies here at home. Upon completing your studies. For emphasis , we expect you to return to our state and channel your expertise into sectors that need your innovation, creativity, and leadership.

    “The challenges we face as a state are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With the right minds and the right commitment, we can transform our education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology sectors into models of progress. 

    “I  firmly believe that the solutions to our problems lie in empowering you, the youth, with opportunities like this. Once again, I would also like to use this medium to thank the dedicated team that made this scholarship scheme a reality. Your vision and determination have laid a solid foundation for a brighter tomorrow anchored on renewed minds which forms the core policy thrust of the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.

    Read Also: Umahi endorses Nwifuru for second tenure 

    “To our scholars, I leave you with this: “Never forget where you come from”. I would want you to allow the aspirations of our people inspire you, and let the challenges we face as a state fuel your determination to succeed. While there, do not forget we are counting on you to return to our state as leaders, innovators, and agents of change. 

    “This will justify the huge amount our state committed to ensuring you attain greater heights for the overall benefits of our people. Do not be swayed by the euphoria of luxury in overseas and looss in chase of dreams. 

    “Being guided by this, we can build together, the prosperous future our state deserves. Thank you, and may your journey be successful and rewarding as proud Ambassadors of Ebonyi State.”

  • Why I attended Labour Party legislator’s event—Nwifuru

    Why I attended Labour Party legislator’s event—Nwifuru

    Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has explained that he attended an event organised by a labour party legislator from the state because politics is not enmity.

    Nwifuru said this on Monday at Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area, during the empowerment programme of member representing Ohaoazara/ Onicha/ Ivo Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Nkemkanma Kama.

    The governor said that he attended the event because politics should be about collaboration in the overall interest of the state and country.

    “Kama is supposed to be my enemy as he belongs to another party but he has turned out to be my friend.

    “After election comes governance. That is why I came with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, including its chairman,” he said.

    He said Kama had aligned with this ideology by also identifying with his administration.

    “Any time I am engaged in any activity even child naming ceremony, Kama is always there.

    “I advise him to join APC before the door is closed as I will campaign for the candidate of my party during elections.

    “He should also ensure that these items get to APC members so that they would speak good of him when he eventually joins,” he said.

    Kama in his remarks, thanked the governor and all the state’s leaders who attended the programme, saying that Nwifuru takes him as a brother and friend.

    “I also thank the leadership of the House of Representatives and stakeholders of the constituency as their selflessness and commitment testify to the communal spirit in us,” he said.

    The lawmaker said the items include tricycles, motorcycles, grinding machines, sewing machines, hair dryers, knapsacks, among others.

    “These items are designed to support our constituents in their various endeavours, whether in local transportation, commerce, personal development, among others.

    “We selected the beneficiaries based on the state governor’s detribalised approach of inclusivity and fairness, irrespective of political affiliation.

    Read Also: Umahi endorses Nwifuru for second tenure 

    “The beneficiaries are advised to use the items for intended purposes while those yet to benefit are assured of being captured in subsequent batches,” he said.

    Mrs Nnenna Okoroafor, a beneficiary, thanked the lawmaker for the gesture and called for more assistance from leaders.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that former Senate President, Pius Anyim, Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, among others attended the event.

    (NAN)

  • Umahi endorses Nwifuru for second tenure 

    Umahi endorses Nwifuru for second tenure 

    Former Governor of Ebonyi State and Minister of Works, David Umahi has endorsed his successor, Governor Francis Nwifuru for a second term.

    The Minister said that his covenant with Nwifuru and God is for the governor to have an eight years uninterrupted governorship position in the state.

    Senator Umahi made the declaration when members of Izzi Nnodo Youths Forum paid him Christmas homage at his Umunagu, Uburu country home in Ohaozara local government area of the State.

    He said: “Even if God forbid and your brothers or Izzi people stand against me tomorrow, the covenant I had with Governor Nwifuru and God is complete and uninterrupted eight years and nothing would stop it.

    “I fought principalities and powers alone and won; and you think I can’t do it now that I have someone by my side. Governor Nwifuru would serve Ebonyi people for the second term in office like other former Governors of the State.

    “I have been saying it and will keep saying it, I have not seen any better option in Izzi till now. Sorry to say this. Governor Nwifuru is humble and till the end of eight years I am not leaving him. Not now!,” Umahi said.

    He commended the Izzi youths led by their National President, Chibueze Elom for paying him such a surprise visit during the yuletide.

    Read Also: Ganduje, Wike, Umahi, Lawan,others urge unity, tolerance, peace

    “Thank you for this surprise visit, and sincerely, no doubt I expected this visit but not in this magnitude. Not to talk about the fact that you left your son (Governor Francis Nwifuru) to pay me a visit today that you should be at his house celebrating with him.

    The National President of Izzi Nnodo Youths Forum, Chibueze Elom explained that he led his members to thank Umahi for fulfilling his promise to hand over the state governorship seat to an Izzi man.

    Elom pleaded with Umahi not to leave his successor, Nwifuru halfway but to guide him always to avoid going astray in his administration.

    “We are here to thank you for promising to hand over to an Izzi man and fulfilling same.

    The Youth President further pleaded with the minister to continue his good work on the projects he has started and also encouraged him to stand by his son to achieve more.