…Commends Mbah’s examples of accountability and inclusivity
The Council Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area in Enugu State, Barr. Obiora Obeagu, has submitted a report on his first 100 days in office, asserting that his administration is mirroring Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance.
Obeagu acknowledged the considerable work still ahead but stated that his administration is on track to fulfil its campaign promises in key areas such as security, education, health, human capital development, empowerment, and infrastructure, all aimed at revitalising Isi-Uzo’s economy in line with Governor Mbah’s vision for a $30 billion state economy.
Inaugurated for a second term on 30th September 2024, Obeagu presented his 100-day assessment at a town hall meeting held at the local government headquarters in Ikem on Wednesday.
He pointed to significant improvements in local security, highlighting a notable reduction in incidents of kidnapping, banditry, and conflicts between farmers and herders that have plagued the area, especially during festive periods.
“Our partnership with the state government has proven effective. As I often say, it is a partnership that works. Our capable and approachable governor is achieving remarkable things. He is a visionary leader with a genuine passion for public service, striving for the community’s benefit. He urged us during our inauguration to replicate this ethos in our local governments, and that is exactly what we are doing.
“For instance, we have successfully implemented our health promises by establishing the Isi-Uzo Free Medical Outreach Committee, which has conducted outreach programmes benefiting over 2,000 people, with more initiatives to follow.
“In terms of security, our residents can attest to our progress. Many returned home this December, and we managed to ensure safety to the best of our ability and resources. Unlike previous years, we did not face issues like kidnapping, banditry, or other criminal activities; we have effectively curbed those challenges through our collaboration with the state government,” he stated.
Obeagu also mentioned that a series of empowerment training sessions have been organised for the youth, providing them with skills to compete on a global scale, in line with Governor Mbah’s vision to eradicate unemployment and achieve a zero poverty headcount.
He praised Mbah for the various development projects initiated in Isi-Uzo, notably the 60/40 partnership, where the state government finances 60 percent of each project executed by local governments.
“I intend to maintain that partnership and fully utilise the existing 60/40 cooperation. It offers a robust platform for our development. The governor is already overseeing numerous projects within our council, such as 11 smart schools across all wards, 11 primary health care centres, and most notably the pivotal 21.7km road connecting Agape to Agu-Mgbuji. This road will enhance economic corridors and farm settlements while also addressing security issues,” he explained.
Additionally, the President General of Amede Autonomous Community, Ibeabuchi Ani, from Eha-Amufu Ward 4, lauded Barr. Obeagu for his extensive projects over the past 100 days, including restoring electricity to areas like Ihenyi and Umualor and initiating road bridge constructions.
“He has worked diligently to establish peace and restore traditional leadership in Amede, which had lacked a traditional head for an extended period. He inaugurated a neighbourhood watch programme to ensure the safety of our community. Now, we can sleep soundly, confident that he will continue to do what he does best,” Ani praised.
Igwe Okey Ogbodo, Chairman of the Isi-Uzo Traditional Rulers Council, described Obeagu as a transformative leader whose impact resonates throughout the council.
“The Chairman did well in his first term, and I believe that is why he was re-elected. He is excelling in infrastructural development and has organised health outreach programmes that I am proud to be part of as a member of the Health Outreach Committee he established.
“We also extend our gratitude to the governor for the road construction from Owo to Ikem, which is opening up the council’s economic corridors,” Igwe Ogbodo concluded.
