Ebonyi Governor Explains Limited Political Appointments from His Community

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has revealed that despite being from Oferekpe-Agbaja in Izzi Local Government Area, his administration includes only one political appointee from his community.

Speaking at the annual celebration of his hometown, the governor addressed growing demands for more appointments, clarifying that the sole appointee serves as a Senior Special Adviser.

“This community delivered over 3,000 votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections, yet it has only one political appointee,” he stated. “Whenever my people request more appointments, I remind them that I represent the government, and the government is here.”

Nwifuru emphasized that while political appointments are important, the government’s investments in infrastructure within the community far outweigh the benefits of additional appointees. He disclosed that more than 20 projects are currently underway at the Information Communication Technology University, located in the area.

“Five of these projects are valued at over ₦900 million each, while others range between ₦1 billion and ₦6 billion. The community’s primary school stands as a testament to government presence, unmatched elsewhere in the state,” he added.

The governor also highlighted ongoing road construction and noted that the Local Government Chairman is linked to the community through ancestry. He urged residents to manage their expectations regarding political appointments, warning that prioritizing them over development could hinder progress.

“Would you prefer that I halt all infrastructure projects in favor of more appointments? You are already receiving more benefits than areas with numerous appointees,” he explained. However, he reassured the community of continued development, promising town hall construction and electrification of areas lacking power, provided land is made available.

Acknowledging the community’s support since his political journey began in 2022, Nwifuru called for patience and unity.

Chief Elias Nwibo, Chairman of the town union, noted that the annual celebration, which started 15 years ago, serves as a gathering for indigenes at home and abroad. He praised the governor’s longstanding contributions to the event, which earned him the chieftaincy title “Onwa” (Moon).

Traditional ruler HRH Ezekiel Nwifuru, who is also the governor’s father, offered prayers for continued prosperity and peace in the land.