The All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate for Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Hon. Chidiebere Aloh, has described his emergence as a “divine mandate,” pledging to leverage his tenure to promote peace, youth empowerment, and sustainable development across the council area if elected in the forthcoming grassroots polls.
Speaking with journalists on Tuesday in Abakaliki, Aloh expressed gratitude for his nomination, attributing it not to personal effort but to “the power of God, the goodwill of party faithful, and the support of government officials.”
“I am very happy and humbled by this mandate. It is not a personal achievement; it is a call to serve and unite the people of Abakaliki. With God’s guidance, we will work to maintain peace and harmony at the grassroots, complementing the state’s already peaceful disposition,” he said.
Aloh, the former legislative council member and community leader in Abakaliki, outlined a development agenda centered on extending governance to rural communities.
He emphasized improvements in critical sectors, including road infrastructure, electricity, education, and healthcare, stressing that “governance must reach the grassroots, where the majority of our people reside.”
On agriculture, which he described as the backbone of Abakaliki’s largely agrarian economy, Aloh promised robust support for farmers through the provision of fertilizers, equipment, and capacity-building programs.
He noted that boosting productivity in cassava, rice, and yam production would strengthen food security and drive economic growth. “Empowering our farmers is not just about agriculture; it is about lifting the entire community and creating a sustainable economy,” Aloh stated.
The APC chairmanship hopeful also publicly endorsed Governor Francis Nwifuru’s bid for a second term, arguing that ongoing strides in infrastructure, human capital, and governance warrant continuity in the state.
“Four plus four must be completed,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of sustained leadership to consolidate development gains.
Addressing the role of young people in societal progress, Aloh highlighted the urgent need for skills acquisition, self-reliance, and responsible engagement. He warned against idleness, internet fraud, and substance abuse, promising that his administration would prioritize support for youths committed to education or vocational training, including financial assistance where needed.
“Productive engagement of youths is key to curbing crime and fostering sustainable development in our communities. Only responsible and reformed youths will benefit from empowerment programs, as our goal is to create a generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders,” he said.
In a message coinciding with the Easter celebration, Aloh called on residents to embrace love, unity, and compassion, drawing inspiration from the sacrifice of Christ. “Let us be our brother’s keeper, and let the spirit of this season guide us in building stronger, more caring communities,” he urged.