● Ferdinand Agu
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Nkanu West Local Government Area officially flagged off its campaign for the upcoming Enugu State Council elections scheduled for September 21, 2024. The event, held earlier today at Nvu-Amakpu Agbani, Nkanu West LGA, drew a large crowd, including key political figures and enthusiastic party supporters.
The highlight of the event was the speech delivered by the PDP’s Chairmanship candidate for the LGA, Honourable John Chukwuma Ogbodo. In his remarks, Ogbodo expressed deep gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and thanked Governor Peter Mbah for his leadership. He praised the governor’s ongoing efforts to transform the state, citing the recent flag-off of a new asphalt plant as an example of the administration’s focus on infrastructure development.
“Governor Mbah has set a solid foundation for development in Enugu State. His commitment to projects like the new asphalt plant is just one of many that make our campaign easy. I have come to make the conditions of our people better, and we will work closely with the state government to achieve this,” Ogbodo said.
John Ogbodo PDP chairmanship candidate (in white) addressing the crowd, standing by him is his running mate, Friday Nnam.
Ogbodo further promised that his administration, if elected, would prioritize inclusiveness, ensuring that all segments of the LGA are represented in governance. “We will run an inclusive government where every voice counts. No community will be left behind in our development agenda,” he assured the audience.
Professor Jehu Nnaji, a renowned Nigerian lawyer and scholar in international law, also addressed journalists at the event. He spoke glowingly of the candidate and the party’s vision, saying, “Honourable Ogbodo is a man of integrity and vision. His plan for inclusiveness aligns with global best practices in governance, and I have no doubt he will deliver if given the mandate.”
He added, “The synergy between the local government and Governor Peter Mbah’s administration will bring sustainable development to Nkanu West. The people stand to benefit immensely.”
Obinna Eze, a local farmer from Agbani, shared his excitement with the crowd, saying, “Governor Mbah’s work has touched every part of the state, and Honourable Ogbodo will continue that work in Nkanu West. We trust him to bring more development to our rural areas, especially in agriculture.”
Ifeoma Nnamene, a trader from Akpugo, endorsed the candidate, saying, “As a woman and a business owner, I believe Honourable Ogbodo’s promise of inclusiveness will bring more opportunities for us. Governor Mbah has already opened doors, and Ogbodo will help us benefit from them at the local level.”
Chinedu Okeke, a youth leader from Amodu, also expressed confidence in the candidate’s ability to lead. “The future looks bright with John Ogbodo as our chairman. He will create opportunities for the youth to grow, just as Governor Mbah has done at the state level,” he remarked.
Still on youth involvement in leadership, Barrister Victor Ogbodo-Evu, a legal practitioner and strong member of the PDP, emphasized the need for youth engagement and inclusive governance. “With leaders like Ogbodo and the ongoing support from Governor Mbah, Nkanu West is poised for significant growth. Our youth are excited about the future,” he said.
Onyeka Onwe, the Campaign Director for Nkanu West LGA, emphasized the importance of unity and continuity, stating, “We are on a winning path because we have the best candidates and a governor who has set the standard for development in the state. Nkanu West will continue to be a major contributor to that success story.”
Iloabuchi Aniagu, the member representing Nkanu West at the Enugu State House of Assembly, also shared his thoughts with the crowd, stating, “Governor Mbah has set an unprecedented pace in development, and Honourable Ogbodo is the perfect candidate to continue that work at the grassroots. His leadership will bring the dividends of democracy to our people.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the newly elected PDP LGA Chairman, Sunday Onovo, set the tone for the event, thanking the party faithful for their unwavering commitment to the success of the campaign. He highlighted the impressive developmental strides being undertaken by Governor Peter Mbah, noting that the governor’s achievements have made the PDP campaign “a smooth ride.”
John Ogbodo exchanging pleasantries with supporters.
“The good works of His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, across the state have given us the confidence to go into this election fully prepared. His vision aligns with our goals here in Nkanu West, and we are ready to continue that legacy,” Onovo stated.
The event was graced by other notable dignitaries, including Dr. Chika Okenwa-Ani, former chairman of Old Nkanu LGA who urged the people to vote for PDP in the coming election, HRH Igwe Okechukwu Nwobodo Egbune, who performed the traditional breaking of kolanuts, Friday Nnam, Deputy chairmanship candidate, Deaconess Ifeoma Nwobodo, former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Sullivan Chime. Ekene Okenwa, Dr Chika Igwesi and Sunday Ugwu, former Nkanu West Local Government Council Chairmen, were also in attendance.
As the campaign intensifies, the PDP in Nkanu West has promised to engage all stakeholders and ensure a peaceful, issue-based election. The campaign train will also make stops at Ammuri, Amodu, and Umueze Wards, where the party aims to reach more grassroots supporters and spread its message of development and inclusivity. GMTNewsng.com
