Ebonyi State: Umahi Declares 8-yr-Tenure for Tinubu, Nwifuru, Says Fighting Is In My Blood
From Omaka OKOH, ABAKALIKI
THE immediate past Governor of Ebonyi state and current Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, has declared eight years tenure for President Bola Tinubu and incumbent Governor Francis Nwifuru.
Umahi, accompanied by former members of his administration (2015–2023), made the declaration when he paid a Christmas homage to the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, on Friday, January 3, 2025.
During the visit, the Minister commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and express confidence in Governor Nwifuru’s leadership, saying "we will stand with the duo in their second term to complete their eight years in office."
During the visit, Umahi praised the federal government’s developmental efforts, highlighting the progress achieved under President Tinubu’s leadership.
He said: “Before now, there were no federal projects in Ebonyi. What we have now under this administration is remarkable. Though some claim we have many projects, it is not more than what other states have.
"The difference is that our projects are smaller and spread across the state, whereas other states have longer roads.”
"I call on Ebonyi residents to continue supporting and praying for President Tinubu. I want Ebonyi people to pray for Mr. President. He has favored us, and we will prove to him that we appreciate his love for us
"I also reaffirm Ebonyi State’s loyalty to the president. If there’s any state where the president does not need to campaign for votes, it’s Ebonyi. We are number one in the Southeast, and we will prove it.”
The minister expressed strong confidence in Governor Nwifuru’s leadership, declaring his tenure divinely ordained for eight years.
“I am happy to be here with some of the people we worked with during my administration,” Umahi said. “I was here last year and will continue to visit for the next six and a half years, by the grace of God.
“The spirit of God has asked me to declare that your tenure is for eight years. Even if you were a bad person, there is no replacement for you in Izzi land.”
On the issue of personal financial interest in his endorsement, Umahi said: “Is it money I want? I don’t need money. I am not a money person. If I were, we wouldn’t have developed the state.
"The way you honour me before my enemies is more than enough. That’s why I’m openly declaring the secret of your second tenure ahead of everyone. You will not spend a single kobo for your re-election.”
Commending Nwifuru for his contributions to the successes of his administration, emphasising their shared achievements, the Minister stated: “There is no legacy we achieved in Ebonyi State that you were not part of. Our legacies are intertwined and inseparable.
"I predict a seamless re-election for Nwifuru. We have declared fully that you will have your eight years intact. Your re-election will be the smoothest.
“I thank God you have reconciled with those we fought to be where we are. But if there’s a need, we will fight again. Fighting is my calling—like David in the Bible, I am always a fighter,” he said.
