Ekile Ward Pays Ado Local Government Chairman a Solidarity Visit, Highlights Key Developmental Needs

The people of Ekile Ward in the Ari axis of Ado Local Government Area (LGA) paid a historic solidarity visit to the Chairman, Engr. Sunny Oche, at his country home recently. This marked the first such visit from the Ari axis since Engr. Oche assumed office. The delegation, led by Ward Head Chief Ochapa Emerua, included prominent community leaders, clan heads, youth representatives, and Hon. Paul Agbo, the Councilor representing Ekile Ward.

The delegation’s spokesperson, Mr. Joseph Unogwu (Secretary of the Ward Head), congratulated Engr. Oche on his electoral victory and apologized for the delayed visit, citing recent burial ceremonies and challenges related to land encroachment. Mr. Unogwu expressed gratitude to Governor Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia (Ph.D) for overseeing a smooth election process.

The visit centered on presenting a list of crucial developmental needs for Ekile Ward, including:

1. Infrastructure: Construction of an 18km Rijo-Ekile road and provision of a functional motorized borehole.
2. Economic Development: Enhancement of activities at the Nworie Ndobasi Market, addressing revenue diversion concerns.
3. Youth Empowerment: Implementation of skill acquisition and growth initiatives for the youth.
4. Security: Strengthening security measures along the Oju and Ebonyi boundaries to combat criminal activities.
5. Land Disputes: Intervention in ongoing land disputes involving Izi settlers and the indigenous Ekile community concerning palm tree ownership and harassment. The delegation highlighted cases of intimidation and illegal harvesting of palm fruits.

Engr. Sunny Oche expressed concern about the lack of women’s involvement in recent solidarity visits and stressed the importance of their participation in community and political affairs. He appreciated the visit and pledged the Council’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised. He announced the LGA’s intention to fully resume control of the Nworie Ndobasi Market, with Councilor Agbo overseeing operations, and pledged security for market stakeholders. A joint initiative with Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi to provide market stalls was also announced. The Chairman further committed to supporting youth cooperatives for skill acquisition and farming initiatives.

Addressing concerns regarding appointments, Engr. Oche highlighted the significant number of appointments from the Ari Political Zone, including key positions held by individuals from Ekile Ward. He called for continued support for the government to foster a positive relationship between the LGA and Ekile Ward.

The visit concluded with an exchange of gifts, symbolizing the strong bond between the Ado Local Government and Ekile Ward.

The  Private Secretary to the Chairman, Innocent Igelle reported