In a significant move to enhance effective governance in the Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, the Legislative Assembly has officially inaugurated its various House Committees.
The inauguration took place on Tuesday, 28th January 2025, at the Local Government Multipurpose Hall in Udenu Secretariat, Obollo Afor. The Leader of the Udenu Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Odo, emphasized that these committees will strengthen good governance in the council and exemplify their commitment to supporting the admirable initiatives of Governor Peter Mbah and Council Chairman, Aka Eze Aka.
“Today’s inauguration of the House Committee chairmen marks a monumental milestone for Udenu LGA, Enugu State, and Nigeria as a whole. We have shown that, in alignment with the spirit of the governor and local government chairman, we are prepared for a transformative approach at the local government level. This inauguration is a vital step in promoting transparency, establishing checks and balances, and fostering community engagement. I urge all heads of departments to step up and collaborate closely with the committee chairs. Do not treat this as business as usual. During their oversight functions, difficult questions will be posed, and accountable answers must be provided regarding the governance of the LG.
“As we embark on this new chapter, I implore the Heads of Department to collaborate with the Committee chairmen and vice versa. This partnership is essential for the effective implementation of Local Government policies and programmes. I am confident that together we can achieve remarkable outcomes. Serve with integrity and a love for the communities you represent. Remember, as you perform your oversight duties, you are setting a precedent and establishing a legacy for future generations to follow. To all the House Committee members, I extend my warmest congratulations on your appointments. Your roles are crucial in shaping the future of our council, and I have every faith that you will excel in these positions.”
Rt. Hon. Dr. Odo also commended the Council Chairman for his exemplary leadership and informed the Assembly of his recent election as the South East Zonal Chairman of the Councilors Forum of Nigeria.
“I want to begin by recognizing and commending our Council Chairman, Hon. Aka Eze Aka, for his outstanding contributions. Your unwavering dedication to our Local Government has been exceptional, and we are grateful for your leadership. His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, promised from the outset of his governorship to introduce disruptive innovation and reshape politics. Since then, we have witnessed significant changes in our governance framework, and the emergence of Aka Eze Aka is a testament to this.
“It is with great honour that I share my recent election as the South East Zonal Chairman of the Councillors Forum of Nigeria. On 13th December 2024, over 8,800 councilors from across the nation convened a national convention that elected new leadership to guide the Councilors’ efforts. Through divine grace and the support of my fellow councilors, I was elected to lead councilors across the five South East states. This is a tremendous privilege, and I am pleased to be officially introduced to the council today. I express my sincere gratitude to the Executive Chairman for providing the support essential for me to contest and ultimately succeed.”
As he appealed for continued backing from the Council Chairman, he urged the members to maintain their commitment to their constituents.
“I urge our mayor, Aka Eze Aka, and all attending guests to assist us in restoring the dignity and reputation of councillors both locally and beyond. As you are aware, being a councillor can be one of the most challenging elected positions, often described as a burial ground for political ambitions. This perception arises because our resources frequently fall short of our constituents’ expectations. I pray that our dreams and ambitions will not be buried after our tenure. Amen.
“As we move forward, let us remain dedicated to serving our community with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Together, we must face the challenges before us and seize the opportunities that await.
The event was attended by distinguished political figures from Nsukka Senatorial Zone and beyond, including Udenu LGA Chairman Aka Eze Aka and his Deputy, Hon. Mrs. Onyinye Odoh. Other notable attendees included Rt. Hon. Chika Aroh, the Secretary to the Local Government, Dr. Jude O. Ukwueze, Chief of Staff to the Chairman, and former Leader of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ikechukwu Ezugwu.
Also present were all the traditional rulers in Udenu local government area, all former council leaders, Igboeze South, Nsukka Legislative Leaders, among many other stakeholders.
