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Delivering On Promise: A New Era Of Performance-Driven Governance In Enugu

By Dr Jeff Ejiofor

Peter Ndubuisi Mbah stands today as the 5th civilian executive governor of Enugu State, and his leadership has steadily drawn attention for its focus on practical governance and measurable outcomes.

In a political environment where citizens are increasingly demanding accountability, his administration appears to reflect a shift from rhetoric to results, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and human capital development.

Undoubtedly, looking at his performance in the last few years, there is a growing sentiment across Enugu State that governance should not merely be judged by promises but by visible impact.

Roads that were once dilapidated are being rehabilitated, urban and rural connectivity is improving, and there is a deliberate push toward modern infrastructure that supports economic growth.

Beyond physical projects, the administration’s emphasis on human capital, especially in education and healthcare, signals an understanding that development is not only about structures but about people.

In education, reforms aimed at improving access, quality, and relevance are gradually taking root, with a focus on equipping young people with skills suited for a modern economy.

In healthcare, renewed investments are helping to strengthen service delivery, making care more accessible to ordinary citizens.

These efforts, taken together, reinforce the argument that when leadership demonstrates commitment and delivers tangible benefits, performance should indeed be rewarded.

Obviously, from all indications, his promises are religiously being fulfilled as we recall that during his campaign, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah articulated a vision centred on economic transformation, improved living standards, and efficient public service delivery.

What stands out today is the extent to which those promises are being translated into action. While no administration is without its challenges, the visible alignment between stated goals and ongoing projects has helped build a sense of trust among many residents.

From road construction to the provision of basic amenities, there is a noticeable attempt to address long-standing gaps.

More importantly, the administration’s approach suggests a structured plan rather than isolated interventions.

This consistency strengthens the narrative that governance, when guided by clear priorities and disciplined execution, can genuinely improve lives.

Apparently, looking ahead, the question of political continuity often hinges on public perception. For many in Enugu State, the decision will likely rest on whether the current trajectory is sustained and deepened.

If the administration continues to deliver on its key priorities, expanding infrastructure, strengthening education and healthcare, and improving overall quality of life, it naturally positions itself favourably in the eyes of the electorate.

Re-election, in this context, becomes less about political sentiment and more about performance evaluation. When citizens begin to see the government as responsive and impactful, the inclination to support continuity grows stronger.

Thus, the argument that Peter Ndubuisi Mbah may secure another mandate is rooted not just in political calculation but in the broader principle that effective leadership tends to earn public confidence.

In conclusion, the story unfolding in Enugu State reflects a broader democratic ideal: that leadership should be assessed by results and that governance anchored on delivery can reshape public trust.

If this momentum is maintained, it reinforces a simple but powerful idea, performance should be rewarded, and promises, when fulfilled, create the foundation for sustained progress. Ndi Enugu, it is often said that one good turn deserves another.

Tomorrow is indeed Here.

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ADC Dares INEC, Sets April 9 For Nationwide Congresses

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared it will go ahead with its nationwide congresses starting April 9, 2026, despite strong warnings from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), escalating tensions between the opposition party and the electoral regulator.

In a notice issued from its Abuja headquarters and signed by spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, the party—led by National Chairman David Mark—insisted it had fulfilled all legal requirements, including formally notifying INEC of its planned activities.

The ADC outlined a tight schedule: screening of aspirants on April 7, appeals on April 8, grassroots congresses at polling unit, ward, and local government levels on April 9, followed by appeals on April 10.

State congresses are slated for April 11, with appeals on April 12, culminating in a national convention on April 14.

INEC, however, has cautioned that proceeding could violate existing court orders tied to ongoing litigation involving the party.

Speaking on Arise News, INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan stressed that all parties must respect judicial directives, warning that defiance could carry serious consequences—including possible disqualification from elections.

He noted that the court had explicitly instructed parties to avoid actions that could interfere with ongoing proceedings, adding that the ADC’s planned congresses are already part of the matters before the court.

Citing past precedents in Zamfara and Plateau states, INEC warned that failure to comply with court orders could invalidate future electoral victories, even after candidates are declared winners.

The standoff deepened earlier this week when INEC suspended recognition of the David Mark-led faction of the ADC and removed its leadership from the commission’s official portal, citing a court order.

In response, the ADC accused INEC of bias and called for the resignation of its chairman, alleging attempts to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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Tinubu’s Labour Minister Onyejeocha Resigns

 

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has resigned from her position, becoming the third member of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet to step down ahead of the 2027 elections.

Her resignation follows the president’s directive requiring all political appointees with plans to contest elective offices in 2027 to vacate their positions.

Onyejeocha made the announcement on Friday via a letter shared on her social media platforms, just days after the March 31 deadline.

While confirming her departure, she did not reveal the office she intends to seek.

“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I announce my resignation as Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment,” she stated.

She expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, members of the Federal Executive Council, and Nigerians for the opportunity to serve, describing her time in office as a meaningful chapter in her public service journey.

According to her, the decision marks “not an end but a new beginning,” reaffirming her commitment to national development and continued service.

Onyejeocha also commended staff of the ministry for their dedication and collaboration, noting their role in advancing workers’ rights, improving workplace safety, and boosting employment opportunities across the country.

The former lawmaker, who represented Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in Abia State for over a decade, also thanked her constituents for their enduring support.

Her exit follows similar resignations by Said Alkali, former Minister of Transportation, who is pursuing the Gombe State governorship, and Yusuf Tuggar, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, who has also joined the Bauchi State governorship race.

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‘2027 Is Not Our Turn’ — Umahi Dismisses Southeast Presidency Push, Backs Tinubu Till 2031

Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has declared that any ambition by the Southeast to produce the president in 2027 is unrealistic, insisting the region must instead rally behind Bola Ahmed Tinubu through to 2031.

Speaking in Enugu during the commissioning of a 15-kilometre stretch of the Abakpa–9th Mile–Onitsha Federal Highway, Umahi described the Southeast presidency bid as a “dead end,” urging political leaders in the region to adopt a more strategic approach.

According to him, the “Emilokan” mandate—which powered Tinubu’s rise to power—must be allowed to run its full course.

“We’re not getting the presidency through insults or wishful thinking,” he said.

“We must be strategic. No matter the candidate other parties present, Southeast people should support the President.”

Umahi, a former governor of Ebonyi State, also stirred controversy by claiming divine backing for his political stance.

He said he was acting on “God’s instruction” to align the Southeast with the ruling All Progressives Congress, expressing confidence that Tinubu would secure re-election.

Highlighting infrastructure development as a key benefit of such alignment, Umahi pointed to the ongoing reconstruction of the Enugu–Onitsha expressway, which he said is costing over ₦352 billion.

He described the project as a major federal intervention and suggested the region should reciprocate with strong electoral support—targeting at least 80% of votes for Tinubu in 2027.

The minister also dismissed long-standing complaints of marginalisation in the Southeast, noting that the region now holds significant positions in government, including his own appointment and the inclusion of Southeast indigenes among service chiefs.

In a veiled swipe at opposition figures such as Peter Obi, Umahi argued that agitation and criticism would not secure political power for the region.

He further warned that any Southeast leader unwilling to openly support and promote the current administration’s projects should not expect political backing, underscoring growing divisions over the region’s political direction ahead of 2027.

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‘Democracy Isn’t For Us’,  Burkina Faso Junta Leader Sends Stark Message

Burkina Faso’s military ruler, Captain Ibrahim Traore, has declared that the country should abandon any expectations of democratic governance, insisting that elections are no longer a priority.

Speaking in a televised interview on the state broadcaster RTB, Traore bluntly told citizens to “forget” democracy altogether.

“We’re not even talking about elections,” he said.

“People need to forget about the issue of democracy. Democracy isn’t for us.”

Traore seized power in September 2022 after overthrowing a fellow junta leader, tightening his grip on the nation ever since.

Under his rule, dissent has been increasingly stifled, with sweeping restrictions placed on political and civic activity.

In a series of controversial moves, the military government scrapped the country’s electoral commission and, earlier this year, dissolved all political parties—many of which had already been suspended since the coup.

Burkina Faso had initially pledged a return to civilian rule following the first military takeover in January 2022, with a transition deadline set for July 2024.

However, the junta later extended the timeline by five years, effectively keeping Traore in power amid ongoing insecurity.

The country continues to battle a deadly insurgency, with jihadist violence claiming thousands of lives over the past decade.

The junta has used the worsening security situation as justification for delaying democratic processes.

International bodies, including the United Nations, have criticised the government’s actions, urging authorities to restore political freedoms and

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MainPower Confirms Staff Electrocuted During ‘Unauthorized’ Operation In Enugu 

The MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited has confirmed the death of one of its employees, Mr Isaac Dike, who was electrocuted while on duty in Enugu.

In a statement released on Friday, the company’s Head of Communications, Mr Emeka Ezeh, said the incident occurred around 3:25 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1. Dike, a linesman attached to the Ogui District, was reportedly working at a 300KVA/11KV/0.415KV distribution substation located on Giraffe Street in Ekulu East Estate, popularly known as Zoo Estate.

According to Ezeh, the worker was found lifeless after the incident and was brought down from a high-tension pole. He was rushed to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.

The case was subsequently reported at the Abakaliki Road Police Station, while the remains were deposited in a morgue.

Preliminary findings have raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.

The company revealed that the deceased had travelled to the location with a team driver, who claimed he was unaware of the exact nature of the assignment or the identity of the customer who allegedly requested the service.

Further checks by the company showed no record of any fault report or complaint from Ekulu East Estate on the day of the incident.

There was also no approved outage request for any maintenance work in the area.

Ezeh noted that internal findings suggest the activity may have been unauthorized, as the deceased reportedly did not inform any member of his team before heading to the site.

Describing the incident as unfortunate, the company extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured that a full investigation would be carried out to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.

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Gunmen Storm Palace, Murder Ebonyi Traditional Ruler In His Bedroom

A wave of shock has gripped Ebonyi State following the brutal killing of a traditional ruler, Eze Josephat Ikegwu, who was gunned down inside his own bedroom in a chilling late-night attack.

The monarch, who ruled over the Isinkwo Community in Onicha Local Government Area, was reportedly murdered on Wednesday night when armed assailants invaded his residence under the cover of darkness.

Eyewitnesses say the attackers fired shots through a window before breaking into the home and shooting the ruler at close range, right in front of his wife.

Governor Francis Nwifuru condemned the killing, describing it as a “barbaric and senseless act” that strikes at the very heart of the state’s peace and unity.

He expressed deep sorrow over the incident and vowed that those responsible would be tracked down and brought to justice.

“This is not just a murder; it is an attack on our traditional institution and the soul of our society,” the governor said, assuring residents that security agencies had been fully mobilised.

Local authorities also reacted strongly. The Chairman of Onicha LGA, Ikechukwu Ogbofia, confirmed that investigations were underway and urged residents to remain calm while cooperating with law enforcement.

Police spokesperson Joshua Ukandu said the command had already launched a full investigation into the killing.

The tragic incident adds to a growing pattern of violence against traditional rulers in the state.

With this latest attack, at least five monarchs have been killed in Ebonyi in recent times, raising alarm over the safety of community leaders.

The killing comes just weeks after another ruler, Eze Francis Igwe, was abducted and murdered in a similarly gruesome manner.

As fear spreads across affected communities, the state government is calling on citizens, leaders, and security agencies to unite in restoring order and preventing further bloodshed.

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‘You Have Over 30 Governors, What Are You Afraid Of?’ – David Mark Tackles Tinubu Over Alleged One-Party Agenda

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has challenged President Bola Tinubu to justify what he described as growing fears of political domination, despite the ruling party’s overwhelming control across the country.

Speaking at a press briefing, the former Senate President questioned why the president would feel threatened when the All Progressives Congress (APC) already controls the majority of political structures, including over 30 state governors and a dominant presence in the National Assembly.

Mark made the remarks while addressing concerns over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recent decision to delist certain ADC leaders from its official portal, a move the opposition coalition views as an attempt to weaken dissenting voices.

He warned that Nigeria’s democracy is under pressure, alleging that recent developments point to a deliberate effort to edge the country toward a one-party system ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to him, the strength of democracy lies in citizens’ freedom to choose, associate, and participate in governance—freedoms he claims are being steadily eroded.

Mark expressed disappointment over what he described as a pattern of actions in the past few years that undermine democratic values, insisting that Nigerians must remain vigilant and actively defend the nation’s political space.

He also criticised the INEC decision, arguing that it created confusion by appearing to recognise conflicting leadership claims within the ADC, despite prior knowledge of internal party developments.

Directly addressing the president, Mark questioned the need to suppress opposition voices if the administration is confident in its performance, urging for a level playing field in future elections.

He concluded by calling on Nigerians to stand firm in protecting democratic principles and resist any attempt to limit political competition in the country.

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Atiku’s Refusal To Step Aside Undermining Coalition Efforts – Former DG VON

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osita Okechukwu, has blamed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s refusal to step aside for deepening concerns about a creeping one-party system in Nigeria.

Okechukwu, a former Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), made the remarks in Enugu while reacting to Atiku’s recent declaration that he would not withdraw from the political race.

He argued that Atiku’s position undermines opposition unity and indirectly strengthens the dominance of the ruling party.

According to him, the absence of the former vice president at a major political gathering in Kano—where the African Democratic Congress (ADC) welcomed Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and his Kwankwasiyya movement—raises questions about his commitment to coalition-building.

Okechukwu accused Atiku of contradicting himself by alleging that President Bola Tinubu is fostering a one-party system, while his own actions weaken efforts to build a strong opposition front.

He further recalled that similar actions by Atiku during the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primaries contributed to internal divisions that destabilised the party.

Describing claims of a one-party agenda as misleading, Okechukwu said the real issue lies in the opposition’s inability to unite, citing personal ambition, disunity, and lack of strategic direction as key setbacks.

He maintained that Atiku’s latest statement highlights a deeper problem within the opposition, where leaders are unwilling to make sacrifices for collective progress or respect zoning principles meant to ensure balance and inclusiveness.

Okechukwu suggested that Atiku, as a senior statesman, should instead support a consensus ticket involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 elections, in order to present a credible challenge and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

He concluded that the real threat to the country’s democratic system is not the strength of the ruling party, but the persistent dysfunction and fragmentation within the opposition.

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Tight Security In Enugu As NSCDC Deploys Over 1,300 Officers For Easter Operations

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has rolled out a major security operation in Enugu State, deploying 1,322 personnel ahead of the Easter celebrations.

According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Pamela Chukwu, the large-scale deployment was ordered by the State Commandant, Dr. Elijah Willie, to ensure maximum safety across the state during the festive period.

She explained that officers have been strategically stationed in key locations identified through intelligence and past security assessments.

These include churches, motor parks, markets, highways, recreational centres, and other high-traffic public areas.

Chukwu noted that special focus has been placed on known flashpoints, densely populated areas, and locations prone to security threats.

Units such as the Anti-Vandal Squad, Rapid Response Team, Intelligence Department, and Disaster Management Unit have all been placed on high alert.

She added that patrol teams will operate round-the-clock, while rapid response squads are positioned for immediate intervention if needed.

The NSCDC also emphasized strengthened collaboration with other security agencies to boost intelligence sharing and coordinated response efforts.

Residents were urged to stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and report any suspicious activity promptly, as the agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure throughout the Easter period.

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