Former Ebonyi Assembly Speaker Francis Nwifuru sworn in as Governor

CLEMENT NNACHI, Abakiliki

Former Speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru was on Monday sworn in as the 4th Executive Governor of the State.

Also sworn in was the New Deputy Governor Princess Patricia Obila.

The inauguration was performed by the State Chief Judge Elvis Ngene at exactly 1.15 pm at the Abakaliki Township Stadium.

In an address, Governor Francis Nwifuru urged fellow contestants in the election to withdraw petitions instituted against his election victory at the Tribunals.

According to him,” We shall run on the Principle of Charter of Needs, with the aim to make a decision through inputs.”

“I shall hold Town Hall meetings, to ensure that togetherness we sustain core governance.

‘I assure you that we are not going to disappoint you.

“I hereby invite my brother who went to court and Tribunal, to join us in the journey and offer advice.

“I plead with them to withdraw petitions against me, as it will allow leaders to focus on the job.

“To other contestants against me at the governorship election, I thank you for humbling me to know the true meaning of the job.”

He expressed appreciation to the citizenry for the confidence reposed in him to pilot the affairs of the State.

The Governor reiterated that he was prepared to do the work of a governor with a well-prepared blueprint.

“The experience we gathered has prepared us for the task at hand, we are open for discussion from all on the good governance of the State.”

‘I assure you of harmonious partnership, together we shall build a worthy State.”

Earlier while presenting his Hand over Speech, Ex-Governor David Umahi urged his successor to ensure that he accords priority to the peace and unity of the State.

Umahi used the occasion to dissolve the State Executive Council (SEC).

Highlights of the occasion were the formal Hand over of the administration of the State to Hon Francis Nwifuru by the immediate past Governor David Umahi.

The event featured the conferment of the State’s Highest Award of Great Grand Commander, Ebonyi Hall of Fame’ to Governor Nwifuru and his deputy Princess Patricia Obila.

The ceremony had in attendance former Governor Chief Martin Elechi, Chairman of the State Elders Council Chief Ben Okah, Members of the “Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru Support Group’,  Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly Kingsley Ikoro, Traditional Rulers. Cultural Groups among others.