Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State recently addressed his community of Oferekpe-Agbaja in Izzi Local Government Area during their annual celebration, shedding light on the balance between political appointments and infrastructural development. Responding to appeals for more political positions for community members, the governor highlighted the significant investments his administration has made in the area, emphasizing that these projects ultimately benefit the community more substantially than a plethora of appointments. While acknowledging the community’s support during his political journey, he urged patience and understanding, underscoring that his focus remains on delivering tangible development that will uplift the entire community.
The governor revealed that despite his community’s significant contribution to his electoral victory – providing over 3,000 votes to the All Progressives Congress – only one individual from Oferekpe-Agbaja holds a political appointment within his administration, serving as a Senior Special Adviser. He contrasted this limited number of appointments with the extensive ongoing infrastructural projects within the community, particularly those focused on the Information Communication Technology University. These projects, he explained, represent substantial financial commitments, with some exceeding ₦900 million and others ranging between ₦1 billion and ₦6 billion. This investment, he argued, demonstrates a tangible commitment to the community’s progress that surpasses the benefits derived from numerous individual appointments.
Further emphasizing his commitment to the community’s development, Governor Nwifuru pointed to the renovated community primary school, describing it as a testament to his administration’s presence and investment, surpassing similar infrastructure in other parts of the state. He also highlighted ongoing road construction projects and the indirect link between the community and the Local Government Area chairman, whose ancestry traces back to Oferekpe-Agbaja. These collective investments, he reiterated, represent a more substantial and beneficial contribution to the community than a proliferation of political appointments.
Governor Nwifuru posed a crucial question to the community: should he halt these vital infrastructural projects to accommodate more political appointments? He firmly believed that the community was already receiving a greater share of developmental benefits compared to areas with a higher number of political appointees. He cautioned against prioritizing individual appointments over collective development, arguing that such a focus could impede the overall progress of the community. However, in a demonstration of his responsiveness to community needs, he pledged to address electricity shortages and construct a town hall, contingent upon the community providing the necessary land.
The annual celebration of Oferekpe-Agbaja, a tradition spanning 15 years, serves as a gathering point for community members both within Nigeria and abroad, fostering interaction and communal bonding. Chief Elias Nwibo, the chairman of the community’s town union, explained the significance of the event, emphasizing its role in uniting the community and celebrating their shared heritage. He further highlighted the governor’s consistent support for the annual celebration since his tenure as Speaker of the State House of Assembly, which earned him the chieftaincy title of Onwa (Moon). This consistent support, according to Chief Nwibo, underscores the governor’s deep-rooted connection to his community and his commitment to its well-being.
The governor’s father, HRH Ezekiel Nwifuru, the traditional ruler of the community, offered prayers for the continued prosperity and peace of the community and the wider region. His presence at the event further emphasized the deep connection between the governor, his family, and the community, reinforcing the sense of shared destiny and the importance of collective progress. This intertwined narrative of family, community, and leadership highlights the governor’s dedication to serving his people beyond mere political appointments, focusing instead on sustainable development and long-term prosperity. This philosophy underlines the core message of the governor’s address: that true progress lies not in individual gains through political appointments, but in collective advancement through strategic investment in infrastructure and community development.
