The Chairmanship candidate of Abakaliki Local Government Area under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Chidiebere Aloh, has expressed gratitude for his emergence, describing his nomination as a divine mandate and a product of broad support from stakeholders, the party, and the state leadership.
In an interview with Journalists on Wednesday in Abakaliki, Aloh said he was “very happy” to receive the mandate, attributing his selection not to personal effort but to “the power of God,” as well as the goodwill of party faithful and government officials.
He pledged to prioritise peace and unity across Abakaliki, noting that maintaining harmony at the grassroots would complement the already peaceful disposition of the state.
According to him, his administration would align closely with the state government to sustain stability and drive development.
Outlining his development agenda, he promised to extend the dividends of governance to rural communities, with focus on critical sectors such as road infrastructure, electricity, education, and healthcare.
He emphasised that governance must reach the grassroots, where the majority of the people reside.
On agriculture, he assured that his administration would support local farmers through the provision of fertilisers and essential farming equipment.
He noted that Abakaliki’s economy is largely agrarian, with cassava, rice, and yam production forming the backbone of livelihoods, stressing that empowering farmers would boost food production and economic growth.
The APC chairmanship candidate also used the opportunity to endorse the continuation of the current administration, insisting that the governor deserves a second term in office.
He maintained that ongoing developmental strides across infrastructure and human capital justified the call for continuity, adding that “four plus four must be completed.”
Delivering an Easter message, he urged residents to embrace love, unity, and compassion, drawing inspiration from the sacrifice of Christ. He called on citizens to be their “brother’s keeper” and reflect the spirit of the season in their communities.
Addressing youth development, de Berre advocated skills acquisition and self-reliance, warning against idleness, internet fraud, and substance abuse. He promised that his administration would support youths willing to learn trades or pursue education, including financial assistance where necessary.
He stressed that only responsible and reformed youths would benefit from empowerment programmes, noting that productive engagement remains key to curbing crime and fostering sustainable development in the local government.
