—– Urges Communities to remain steadfast in their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah, noting that such support translates into development of Awgu Local Government Area.
The Renewed Hope movement gathered fresh momentum in Enugu State on Tuesday as Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu led a high-powered grassroots mobilisation to Ward 9—Amoli/Ugbo/Owelli/Ogugu, in Awgu Local Government Area, rallying support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Peter Mbah, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) e-registration exercise.
The well-attended event drew party faithfuls, community leaders, and prominent political stakeholders from across Awgu and beyond, underscoring growing grassroots acceptance of the Tinubu–Mbah leadership agenda in the area.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the party in Amoli/Ugbo/Ogugu/Owelli ward, Nduka Eze( Alias Far back) welcomed party members and dignitaries, expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to national development. He also thanked Governor Peter Mbah, described as the leader of the APC in Enugu State, as well as Senator Osita Ngwu, members of the National Assembly, State House of Assembly members, ward executives, and stakeholders for their sustained support to the party.
Addressing the gathering, Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu, Executive Director, Projects, at the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and former Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives in the 8th and 9th Assemblies, expressed delight over what he described as the President’s transformative policies, particularly towards the South East.
He recalled the long legislative journey that led to the establishment of the South East Development Commission, noting that despite the passage of the bill during the 8th Assembly, it failed to receive presidential assent at the time. According to him, renewed hope was restored when leaders of the 10th Assembly, led by Deputy Speaker Dr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, reintroduced the bill, which President Tinubu signed into law without hesitation.
“That singular act demonstrated sincerity and commitment to the South East and truly renewed our hope,” Okechukwu said.
He further highlighted the upgrade of the former School of Dental Technology in Enugu into a degree-awarding institution, disclosing that the university has approved the establishment of its Permanent campus in Obeagu Community, Awgu Local Government Area. He added that programmes in engineering, technology, and artificial intelligence have also been approved, positioning Awgu as an emerging education hub.
Reflecting on his political journey, Okechukwu noted that although he previously worked with the PDP, he later resigned in line with the wishes of stakeholders and the people, stressing that political leadership must respect popular will and changing realities.
Speaking on Governor Peter Mbah, Okechukwu commended his developmental vision and loyalty, recalling how the governor promptly endorsed his appointment into the South East Development Commission. He outlined several key projects promised by the governor for Awgu, including the establishment of a University of Education, infrastructural development across underserved villages, completion of the Ugwueme roads, and major upgrades around the NYSC Orientation Camp.
He explained that Awgu’s strategic position as the gateway into Enugu State and its selection as a future host of the National Sports Festival informed the scale of development currently ongoing in the area.
“We are not supporting leaders blindly. We are satisfied with the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah, and that is why we will continue to support them,” Okechukwu affirmed.
He also urged residents to obtain their National Identification Number (NIN), explaining that it was essential not only for APC e-registration but also for accessing various federal and state government benefits.
The event was graced by several notable political dignitaries and stakeholders, including Dr CNN Nwafor, who represented Dr Ben Nwoye, Acting Chairman of APC, Enugu Staye; Hon. Frank Anioma, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, who represented Governor Peter Mbah at the event; Hon. Frank Obasi (Toscana), Awgu APC leader; Chief Mrs. Ginika Tor (Adadioramma); and Chief Alex Ogbonna (Okeosisi na Ugbo), Barr Eze O Eze, and many others whose presence further strengthened the significance of the gathering.
In a goodwill message, the Chairman of Awgu Local Government Area, Hon. Uchenna Okoro, thanked Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu and party leaders for their commitment to Awgu’s development. He urged residents to remain steadfast in their support for Governor Peter Mbah, noting that such support directly translates into growth and progress for the local government.
Similarly, Hon. Chiedozie Nwafor (CNN), who represented the APC Caretaker Chairman in Enugu State, Dr. Ben Nwoye, commended the leadership qualities of Rt. Hon. Okechukwu and the success of the e-registration exercise. He also thanked Hon. Godwin Udeuhele, APC e-registration coordinator, alongside party faithfuls and stakeholders for strengthening the party at the grassroots.
The event ended with renewed calls for unity, political participation, and sustained support for the Tinubu–Mbah administration, as the Renewed Hope agenda continues to gain traction across communities in Enugu State.