An Ebonyi Political Group, Umuekumenyi Leadership Council Union. on Thursday inaugurated its Local Government and Ward Delegate Council and sought election of credible candidates to ensure good governance at all levels ahead 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abakaliki, the union’s spokesman, Mr Emmanuel Nwobo, said the delegates were being entrusted with the responsibility of mobilising residents across their communities for democratic participation and good governance.
“You are called upon to render service to your motherland, service for Ebonyi development and service to consolidate good governance and democracy,” he said.
He recalled that the council had earlier adopted Chief Ifeanyi-Chukwuma Odii, Governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic party (PDP), describing the decision as a reflection of members’ aspiration to chart a new political direction for the state.
“Our resolve to participate in the 2027 elections and bring about change in Ebonyi cannot be overlooked.
“It was the unanimous decision of this council that in 2027, we will ensure that Ebonyi is given a new beginning with a fresh air of governance, where the lives and development of our people will truly matter,” he said.
Nwobo urged the newly inaugurated delegates to remain steadfast in the face of possible intimidation.
“Nothing good comes easy, especially when people seek genuine change. You may be mocked, persecuted or intimidated, but remain focused and resilient. Take the message of hope and democratic change to every ward and every community,” he added.
Earlier, the National Chairman of the union, Mr Christopher Ngwuta, charged delegates drawn from the eight local government areas of the Umuekumenyi bloc of Ebonyi to strengthen the organisation’s grassroots structure.
“No human being can be a barrier to the interest of the masses and the entire state. No individual can thwart the will of the people.
“Go back to your communities and deliver the message from ward to ward, zone to zone and local government to local government,” Ngwuta said.
Speaking on behalf of the delegates, Mr Friday Mgbada from Izzi Local Government Area and Mr Ilodibe Nweles, Ikwo Local Government Area, pledged to justify the confidence reposed in them.
“We are ready to work from the grassroots. We did it before and we are confident that the votes of the people will count in 2027. We are committed to delivering our assignment from the ward level to the state level,” he said.
In a goodwill message, Dr Sunday Opoke, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Ebonyi North Senatorial District, described the inauguration as a significant step towards strengthening grassroots democracy.
“The task before you is enormous. Be committed to your mandate and remain close to the people. Democracy succeeds when citizens are actively involved in the electoral process and leadership remains accountable to the people,” Opoke said.
Also speaking, Mrs. Chinyere Nwele, PDP Woman Leader in the State, urged the delegates to remain committed and ensure the active participation of women and youths in the mobilisation process.
