By Victor Nwegede
The Chairman of Ebonyi Local Government Area and State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Barr. Chinedu Uburu, has called on Nigerian youths to shun the culture of constant criticism and instead support leaders with patience and prayers to enable them deliver on their mandates.
Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence and Ebonyi celebrates 29 years of creation, Barr. Uburu reflected on the struggles of the founding fathers of the state, praising late nationalists like Ezogo Akani Ibem, Chief Ofia Nwali, Mbada, and the living legend, Chief Martin Elechi, for their sacrifices.
He also commended the late General Sani Abacha for heeding the cries of Ebonyians in 1996 by creating the state.
“Gone are those days an average Ebonyi man was seen only as a farm labourer or our women as firewood sellers. Today, Ebonyi people have opportunities, visibility, and presence across the nation. The creation of Ebonyi State has transformed our lives,” he said.
On Nigeria’s 65th independence, the ALGON chairman noted that despite challenges, the country has remained united and resilient.
He urged Nigerians to cultivate patience with their leaders, stressing that governance is a gradual process that requires time.
“Nigeria is very diverse. Leaders cannot perform magic overnight. We must stop the constant complaints and comparisons from one administration to another. Whether it was Jonathan, Buhari, or now Tinubu, Nigerians must learn to pray for their leaders instead of pulling them down,” Uburu advised.
He also showered encomiums on Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, describing him as “the father of modern Ebonyi” whose leadership has brought infrastructural renewal, scholarships, empowerment, and peace.
Highlighting ongoing projects like the ICT University, Aeronautics University, and bridges across Ebonyi Local Government, Uburu said the governor had already performed above average expectations and deserved the people’s support.
He particularly cautioned youths against what he described as “pull-him-down syndrome,” urging them to channel their energy into productivity rather than propaganda.
“Leadership must go round. If it is not your turn today, tomorrow it will be. Let us support our leaders and build Ebonyi and Nigeria together. Our peace today is the fruit of good governance and the cooperation of our people. We must not destroy it,” he said.
Barr. Uburu concluded by congratulating Nigerians and Ebonyians, praying for God’s wisdom for leaders at all levels to continue steering the affairs of the nation and state.
