Buhari returns to Abuja after 2-day working visit to South East; Directs reinstatement of Obiano’s security aides; His visit will bring unity – Okorocha; How I appoint my aides – Buhari

By Peter Okolie, Ismaila Chafe

President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to Abuja after a two-day official visit to Ebonyi and Anambra in the South East geo-political zone.

The President’s visit was the first since the inception of the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government.

Buhari, who commenced the visit on Nov. 14 with a state visit to Ebonyi, assured the people of the South-East that his administration would ensure timely execution of roads, power and other projects in the region.

He gave the assurance when he addressed Ebonyi State Leaders of Thought and Traditional Rulers at a meeting in Government House, Abakiliki.

The President, who was also hosted to a state dinner organised in his honour, commended Ebonyi people for the warm reception accorded him during the state visit.

He said that the visit was a clear demonstration of his administration’s strong belief in the unity of Nigeria.

Buhari inaugurated the 14.5km Abakiliki-Afikpo Federal road constructed by the Ebonyi State Government and launched the 700-metre dual flyover over the Trans-Sahara route, running from Enugu to Cameroon, and the Sen. Offia Nwali flyover, all in the state capital.

The President also performed the foundation-stone laying ceremonies of Ebonyi City Mall, another flyover and a road tunnel named after him.

He unveiled the statue of Sir Akanu Ibiam, former Governor of the old Eastern region, whom he described as “a great Nigerian, whose notable records of humanitarianism, advocacy of free primary education and rural development would continue to be an inspiration to all.’’

Buhari, who commended Gov. David Umahi for ”his vision and commitment to the development of the state,” also thanked traditional rulers in the state, led by Eze Charles Mkpuna for conferring him with the chieftaincy title of Enyioma 1 of Ebonyi (Trustworthy friend of Ebonyi).

At another event with South East traditional rulers led by Eze Eberechi Dick, the President was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ochioha Ndigbo (Leader of Igbo people).

He was also in Awka, capital of Anambra State, in continuation of the two-day visit to the South East.

While in Awka, Buhari ordered the police to restore security to Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra and called for massive support for Mr Tony Nwoye, APC’s governorship candidate in the Nov. 18 governorship election.

The President made the call in a short speech at the grand finale of the governorship rally held for the APC governorship candidate.

He said Anambra people would benefit much if they voted for APC.

The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, made known the President’s directive regarding Obiano’s security in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday.

“While welcoming the President on arrival Wednesday in Awka for the Grand Finale of the All Progressives Congress Governorship Rally, the governor had complained about the withdrawal of his security aides.

“Before departing Awka, President Buhari directed the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations), Joshak Habila to ensure the return of the governor’s security personnel,’’ the statement added.

Meanwhile, Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo State has said that President Buhari’s visit to the South-East especially Anambra, was to extend a hand of fellowship to the people and to fix the political bridge that links the centre to the region.

Okorocha said this while addressing party faithful at the grand finale campaign of the APC candidate for Anambra governorship election scheduled to hold on Saturday.

“I see your visit as not only to campaign for Tony Nwoye but to extend your hand of fellowship to the people of the South-East.

“It is indeed a turning point; be rest assured that Igbos love you,” he said.

Okorocha said there was nothing wrong with other candidates contesting the poll, but noted that Nwoye’s victory would ensure that the political bridge between the centre and the region was fixed.

In his speech, Gov. Mohammed Abubakar of Bauchi said Igbos are too important to the federation to operate at the peripheral level.

“Let nobody deceive you into believing that APC is a sectional party; leaders of the party are from various sections of the country.

“The evolution to take you back to the mainstream has commenced; we want you to cash in by voting Nwoye on Saturday,” Abubakar, also the chairman, National Campaign Committee for Anambra Governorship election, added.

Former Senate President Ken Nnamani urged the people of the region to embrace APC in its interest.

Nnamani also stressed the need for the electoral body to ensure free and fair election.

“Let us use the ballot boxes rather than bullets on Saturday,” the party chieftain said.

Sen. Andy Uba and Chief George Muoghalu, who spoke on behalf of other aspirants during the party’s primary, also expressed excitement at Buhari’s visit and assured him of Nwoye’s victory.

“We will do our best to ensure that APC wins clean and fair on Saturday,” Muoghalu said.

Other stakeholders, who spoke at the event included Chief Jim Nwobodo, Sen. Uche Ekwunife and APC National Women Leader, Mrs Ramatu Aliyu, among others.

While in Abakiliki, President  Buhari on Tuesday night had explained that many appointees in his administration were selected purely on merit and their proven track records.

Speaking at a State dinner organised in his honour, he emphasised that he always considered what was best for the country in his decisions.

‘‘Some of the people holding high positions in the government, like my ministers, will tell you that I didn’t know them from Adam.

‘‘I just came across their names from the records and I worked with the records. I thank God that I have a very good team,’’ he said.

The President commended Governor David Umahi for his development strides in the State, saying ‘‘the absolute commitment of the Governor to his position is very remarkable and I am very impressed.’’

President Buhari, while expressing gratitude to God and the people of Ebonyi for recognising his modest contribution to the country, described Nigeria as a great country with incredible resources and highly talented people.

‘‘We should continue to pray to God that the elites that will be in-charge of the country in the future fear God,’’ he said.