By Magnus Aluma, Abakaliki
A Chairmanship Aspirant in the forthcoming Ebonyi Local Government Area elections, Chief Okechukwu Mgbada, has pledged to check rural-urban migration in Ezza North LGA if elected chairman.
Mgbada made the pledge in an interview with NEWSBITS on Wednesday in Abakaliki, while declaring his desire to serve his people with youthful exuberance and commitment, if elected. The foremost entrepreneur and philanthropist said that he has lived with the people since his infancy and has understood the real needs of rural dwellers.
“The people do not need rhetoric but provision of amenities and economic enhancement, which would ordinarily lure them to urban areas. Agriculture has to be key, and as a farmer, I will ensure that all hands go to the farm, especially the youth.
“Emphasis would be placed on commercial agriculture, providing the people with modern farm equipment and making them realise that farming is presently a mega business.”
He observed that one of the major challenges presently confronting farming in the country was insecurity, as he would ensure absolute peace in communities across the council.
“Issues relating to farmers and herdsmen clashes are not experienced in the area, but communal clashes due to land disputes would be checked in their totality. Farmers would engage in year-round farming without hindrance to ensure bumper food production with attendant economic enhancement.”I will collaborate with relevant security agencies to ensure that the people’s lives and properties are secured,” he said.
Mgbada noted that road infrastructure was critical in any society’s economic and related well-being, as he would do his best to provide motorable roads for his people.
“The farmers need good roads to convey their farm produce to where it would be sold. The people need good roads, pipe-borne water, among other amenities, to feel the impact of governance, and when these are provided in rural areas, only a few would want to leave for the cities.”
He expressed confidence in clinching the seat due to his affinity with his people, having been with them since birth. “I contested the last LGA polls but didn’t make it, and with the experience I have garnered since then, I believe this is my time.
“I have been meeting stakeholders of the area, especially traditional rulers, and the responses have been assuring. My late father Felix Mgbada was a foremost founding father of the state, and service to the people runs in the blood.”
Traditional Ruler of the Okposhi- Umuoghara community in the Ezza North LGA, HRH Eze Nwankwo Njoku, said the people were pleased with Mgbada’s intention to contest the election.
“He is a proven youth leader and philanthropist who has put smiles on the faces of our people. He is a chip of the old block, and the people would give him the needed support.”
