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Following a prolonged period of discord, political figures in Ebonyi State, among them Governor Francis Nwifuru, former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, and ex-governors Sam Egwu, David Umahi, and Martin Elechi, appear to have reached a resolution, setting aside their previous conflicts.
Until Tuesday, leaders had refrained from attending public events together, but they made an exception to celebrate the 83rd birthday of former governor Elechi in Abakaliki, marking a notable change in their collective stance.
The festivities honoring Elechi’s birthday were orchestrated by the Ebonyi State Government, this has marked their involvement in commemorating the occasion.
Hosted at the Christian Ecumenical Centre, the event drew notable figures from both near and far, adding to its significance and broad appeal.
Anyim, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who presided over the proceedings, lauded Elechi as an eminent, tenacious, and unwavering pioneer of the state, attributing the unity and cohesion enjoyed by the state to his relentless efforts.
‘it is true that Chief Elechi was the Governor of Ebonyi State but I tell you, that was just a calling to fill a vacuum which he accepted in his usual willingness to make the utmost sacrifice for Ebonyi people,’ Anyim said.
Former governor of the state and ex-Minister of Education, Sam Egwu averred that Elechi displayed exemplary leadership as governor of the state and made enormous contributions to its development.
‘Your dedication and tireless effort in spearheading the struggle for the creation of the state has left an indelible mark on the history of our beloved state.
‘Your resilience in the struggle for the creation of Ebonyi State served as an inspiration to countless individuals, myself included.
‘At the end of my tenure as the first democratically elected governor of the state, I felt naturally happy to transmit the administration of the new state to you who spearheaded the struggle of the state creation.
‘As a governor, you demonstrated exemplary leadership and made significant contributions to the development of our state,’ Egwu said, pouring encomiums on Elechi.
Elechi’s successor and Minister of Works, Umahi, characterized him as a seasoned administrator who imparted invaluable lessons in governance.
During his address, Governor Nwifuru expressed the sentiment that the state had ample cause to commemorate Elechi’s contributions.
Nwifuru praised the ex-governor for his distinctive leadership approach and his significant role in advancing the state’s progress.
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He portrayed Elechi as one of the esteemed elders not only within the state but also across Igbo land and the entire nation.
‘Chief Elechi no doubt remains one of our respected elder statesmen in Ebonyi State who continues to offer rare insights and counsel on how best to organise our state, with the benefits of hindsight, for effective governance.
‘I have benefited immensely from Chief Elechi’s knowledge and perspectives on a wide range of issues as they affect our state. As an astute politician, he has been part of every political epoch in our state.
‘Beyond his sage contributions to our development and political evolution over the decades, the most enduring aspect of his enviable life is his forthrightness, integrity, reliability and spartan life.’
Elechi, in his remarks, lauded Nwifuru for organizing the event in his honour, describing it as the best gift to him.
He asserted that the governor has initiated a fresh era in governance and pledged his ongoing backing to his administration.
