By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
Comr. Israel Ochishi has been elected unopposed as Chairman of the Late Chief Linus Ede Memorial Timber Shade in Ebonyi state.
The electoral process which took place on Saturday, at Unity Square in Abakaliki saw the presence of members who trooped in mass to cast their votes.
Following his victory, Ochishi expressed gratitude to God and the Governor of Ebonyi State for facilitating the peaceful electoral process.
He assured his tenure will foster unity and inclusivity within the market community “This election process started in 2021, but by the grace of God, today His Excellency approved it, and it went successfully,” he stated.
Emphasizing his leadership vision, Ochishi added, “I will carry everyone along. There is nothing like opposition, I will make sure there is peace in the market for it to progress and promote the goodwill of the governor.”
Representative of the Ebonyi State Government, Ikechukwu Nwankwo, Speaker Emeritus of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Ebonyi State Market Board, commended the peaceful nature of the election.
“I thank all who ensured a peaceful process, especially the security agencies who were present to maintain order,” he said.
The election was widely praised for its transparency and peaceful conduct. Douglas Ochishi, the State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, lauded the process, describing it as “the most peaceful electoral process” and commending the Governor of Ebonyi State for his role in ensuring a smooth election.
“Today, the timber shade is happy, and if there is peace in the timber shade, there is peace in Ebonyi,” he remarked. He also urged the new executives to include those who contested but did not win, emphasizing that inclusivity is key to maintaining peace.
Alioke Santus Chukwudi, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, echoed similar sentiments, advising the new leaders to prioritize the growth and development of the timber market. “They should try their best to reposition the Late Chief Linus Ede Memorial Timber Shade and carry along the people who contested with them but didn’t emerge. They should see themselves as servant leaders and not just leaders over their people,” he advised.
The immediate past Chairman, Okechukwu, reflected on the smooth electoral process and expressed confidence in the new leadership.
“I thank God for the election. He has fulfilled what He promised me by giving us a conducive environment to conduct the election peacefully. I wish the winners well, and for those who didn’t win, I believe God will give them their own chances in no distant time,” he said.
The newly elected executives are:Vice Chairman: Nwobodo Malachi, Secretary: Eze Chinedu, Assistant Secretary: Francis Chukwu, Financial Secretary: Monday Eze Iyi,Treasurer: Ejike C.N Onyekomelo, PRO 1: Maudline Emeka F, PRO 2: Change Nwudele, Provost 1: Iyi Abel Uga, Provost 2: Iyeke Ejere.