15/01/2024
BRIEFING FROM THE OFFICE OF THE P.G, ICDU FEDERATED – 001 07.01.2024
BARELY 100 DAYS IN OFFICE
Nde nwom unu ndewo o o. Compliments of the brand new year, 2024.
PREAMBLE:
2. It is with sincere gratitude to God that I welcome all the good and great people of Ishiagu, Echiele ogbu ime mba to the year. Our special gratitude is to our loving Father, whose enduring goodness has caused us to sail through thus far. In the past few months, crimes and criminality have reduced drastically in our community. Tension has also dropped greatly. The yuletide period was marked with pomp and pageantry amidst peaceful coexistence. Unlike the previous year, God favoured us with a season free from fatal accidents, kidnapping, wanton destruction of lives and properties, etc. Nde nwom, it can only be God though we know that He uses men to realise his good wishes for His people. But not to us not to us, but to God be the glory.
3. You may wish to recall that umu Ishiagu gathered at our Civic Centre on Saturday 14th October, 2023 to elect a team of Officers to run the affairs of our Community Development Union. At that General Assembly, the following emerged as the new leaders of our Union:
Arc Moses N. Ajah President General
Mr. Monday Chukwu Vice President
Comrade Ukwu Lawrence Igwe Secretary General
Mr. Elijah Okechukwu Orji Financial Secretary
Hon. Emmanuel Ngwuoke Ajah Treasurer
Mr. Paul Emezuo Osita PRO
Mr. Nnamdi Aroh Provost
4. Following the successful election and swearing into office, the new leadership has methodically continued to pilot the affairs of the Union and indeed the Community as proficiently as possible. I am therefore glad to address you this new year on the goings so far and our near future aspirations. Welcome to PG briefing 001, 2024.
II. POST ELECTION DEDICATION & THANKSGIVING
5. Following the successful conclusion of the elections, the newly elected officers marched in unison to St. James Catholic Church, Ishiagu, where the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Okoro, commended the Team to the Most God before His Altar. After the blessings at the Perpetual Adoration Chapel, the team offered thanksgiving to God and these heralded the commencement of the tenure of this Administration on 14th October, 2023, feast of St. Callistus I, Pope and Martyr.
III. EXCO MEETINGS
6. To chart the right path for the new EXCO, about eight meetings have been held within the first three months. At these meetings, planning for the tenure was given priority, various community development initiatives were discussed and matters arising on Community Development were addressed. In addition to EXCO Meetings, meetings and interactions with stakeholders were held as the need arose.
IV. INTER-GOVERMENTAL RELATIONSHIP
7. During the period under review, the EXCO has maintained cordial relationship with government at all levels. We have worked closely with the Local Government Chairman, who is the eye of the government in our locality. We have built synergy with all elected and appointed government officials from Ishiagu including the Honourable Member Representing OHANIVO Federal Constituency whose good cooperation we remain grateful for in line with our avowed belief that together we stand and divided we fall.
8. We are glad to report that the Ivo Local Government Chairman has keyed into a number of our Community development initiatives and is indeed driving same excellently such that in no distant time, results will begin to manifest. In a similar vein, our Honourable Member has taken up some of our requests including the proposed Ishiagu Mini Stadium, Street Lighting, Schools Rehabilitation, Road Construction, etc and he is championing our Community Development course with great passion. Other Government appointees from Ishiagu are also upbeat on the task ahead of us.
V. SETTING UP OF COMMITTEES
9. The EXCO has set up a number of Working Committees some of whom have commenced work. While the Committees on Agreement Drafting between ICDU et al and M/s Amberton Logistics Nig. Ltd. Co-Chaired by Hon Oliver Osi, the Agreement Review Committee in the Community Development Agreement Between ICDU et al and M/S Crushed Rock Industries Ltd. Co-Chaired by Hon Fabian O. Ivoke, Ishiagu Thanksgiving/Feast Day Committee headed By Rev. Dr Dennis Eze and the Legal Committee headed by Barr Emeka Nwokoro along with Ad-Hoc Committees on Road Development/Rehabilitation (headed by Comrade Ukwu Lawrence Igwe), New Market Land Acquisition Committee and Ishiagu Town Electrification Committee (both headed by Mr. Monday Chukwu, VP) which had since commenced work, a number of other committees were inaugurated on 3rd January, 2024.
10. The Committees inaugurated on the first working day of the year and their Chairmen are as follows:
i. Task Force on Youth Skill Acquisition Chief Stanley U. Anyim;
ii. Education Committee Dr Gilbert Aroh
iii. Works Committee Chief Engr. Bartholomew Onu;
iv. Unified Traditional Arbitration Committee Chief Joseph I. Onu;
v. Environment & Mineral Resources Affairs Committee Dr Eric Makwe;
vi. Youth Sports and Recreation Committee Dr. Gerald Ajah Eze;
vii. Health Committee Chinedu Osi;
Ishiagu Childrens Park Development Committee Hon. Ajah Nwabueze Igwe;
Finance Committee Dr. Nnamdi Chukwu P.;
Empowerment Committee Mr. Domnic Nwachukwu
Ishiagu New Motor Park Committee Deacon Nnaemeka Nwokoro;
Ishiagu New Market Development Committee Engr. Justice Ikechukwu Okorie;
Publicity and Mobilization Committee Mazi Douglas Okoro;
Drug Abuse Prevention Committee Mr. Joseph Nwachukwu;
Ishiagu Leaders Retreat/Peer Review Committee Engr. Franklin Ukah;
Conflict Management & Resolution Committee- Okoro John C.
Welfare Committee Mazi Fidelis Okafor;
Disciplinary Committee Pastor Igwe Sunday;
Town Planning Committee Tpl. Dr. Chinedu Okoro;
Unity Secondary School Rehabilitation Ctte Hon. Chinedu Nkah;
Agriculture Development Committee Prof Julius Ajah;
Ishiagu Sports Club/Event Centre Dev. Ctte. Mr. Olu N. Earnest;
ICDU Abuja Civic Centre Development Committee Dr. Raymond Chukwu
Ishiagu Business Men Forum Chair Chief Ifeanyi Clement Okorie, Co-Chair Mr Ajah Chukwu;
Ishiagu Public Service Forum Pharm. Chinedu Makwe;
Ishiagu Diaspora Forum Dr Mrs Chinyere Eneze & Mazi Charles Egu; &
Ishiagu Think Tank Committee (Development Initiative Team) Amb. Mathias Okafor;
11. Other Committees to be reconstituted include:
a. Security Committee;
b. Audit Committee;
c. Ishiagu Model Girls Secondary School Rehabilitation Committee;
d. Ishiagu High School Rehabilitation Committee;
e. Ishiagu Township Stadium Project Committee;
f. Ishiagu Culture & Traditions promotion Committee;
g. Women Affairs Committee;
h. Sreet Delineation and Naming Committee;
i. Ishiagu Civic Centre Enhancement Committee;
j. Ishiagu Resource Centre Development Committee;
k. Ishiagu Senior Citizens Affairs Committee; and
l. Forum of Ishiagu Academia
VI. GRADUATION OF THE FIRST SET OF STUDENTS FROM THE VOCATION TRAINING DEPARTMENT AT THE FEDERAL SCHOOL OF FORESTRY RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, ISHIAGU
12. On 3oth December, 2023, I led A Team of the ICDU EXCO to the School of Forestry Resource Management, Ishiagu where I presented Certificates to the first 51 graduands of the Schools Vocational Training Department. You may wish to recall that at the instance of H.E. Sen Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON, under my coordination and in collaboration with the School leadership ably led by Dr Mrs. Ukamaka Emeghara, in 2023, we sponsored a number of Ishiagu sons and daughters to be trained in some vocations at the School. The vocations include Apiary, Environmental Protection Technique, Agro-silviculture, Forest Guard, Plantation Establishment, Nursery Establishment, Snailery, Fishery, Piggery, Livestock Management and Poultry Management. Others are Ornamental Horticulture, Feed Formulation, Computer Appreciation and Computer Repairs.
13. At the brief ceremony, we also learnt that the School had gotten accreditation for some of her programs and was ready to commence National Diploma program in these courses while they continue working towards getting accreditation for more courses from National Board for Technical Education.
14. Impressed with the performance of the School, the EXCO promised to galvanise sponsorship for more Ishiaguans who may be interested in any of the Schools Vocational Training programs and also offered to give scholarship to the first three (3) Ishiagu Students to be admitted into Diploma Program in the School.
VII. OUTREACHES TO CRITICALLY ILL & NEEDY ISHIAGUANS
15. During the period under review, the EXCO has extended support to some members of our community in this category, while hoping to properly structure this initiative through the Welfare Cttee. henceforth.
VIII. ROAD GRADING WORKS ACCROSS THE VILLAGES IN SIHIAGU AND REHABILITATION OF MAJOR ROADS INTO THE TOWN
16. In other to make our major roads motor able for a hitch free yuletide season, the ICDU EXCO reached out to the Companies in Ishiagu to as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility partner with us in the Rehabilitation of various Roads in the Town. Accordingly, the works were shared as follows:
a. M/s Amberton Logistics Nig. Ltd. - Ihietutu, Amonye and Ngwogwo Villages;
b. M/s China Oriental Nig. Ltd – Maintain pot holes and all bad spots from Ishiagu/Awgu Junction to Mulak Filling Station along Ishiagu Mpu Road;
c. M/s Sino Chino Nig. Ltd & ICDU Federated Afikpo Road, Ndiobasi, Ndi OkoroUkwu, Ndiugbugbo, Obinagu and Ekembe villages;
d. M/s Crushed Rock Industries Nig. Ltd Okue, Ogwor, Amagu & Ihie;
e. M/s GreenField Nig Ltd/Arab Contractors Amata, Amaeze, Amaeke and Amaokwe villages
17. While the works have been completed in some of the villages, works are still ongoing in four remaining villages. The ICDU empowered the Committee on Road Development and Rehabilitation led by the Secretary General to oversee the works and we thank God for the success attained so far. We are also discussing with our illustrious sons for a more durable rehabilitation of the Awgu/Ishiagu Junction Ishiagu and Ishiagu to Mpu Expressways.
IX. CONSTRUCTION OF 1.8KM ROAD
18. The EXCO reviewed the state of road infrastructure across the town and approved the commencement of one of the oldest roads in the town, Ishiagu Railway Station Road cutting across Ihie and Amonye. The first part which the Union is working on spanning a distance of 1.8km includes expanding the road, grading, relocation of Electricity lines and other obstruction along the route, construction of 2Nr. Culverts, creation of nodal points and construction of about 3.5km Drainage along the two sides of the road. We are hopeful that government would in appreciation of our effort in this regard continue with paving the roads thereafter.
X. ISHIAGU ELECTRICITY PROJECT:
19. Following information gleaned from the mass media, that the electricity project embarked upon has been fully paid for by the previous administration, the current EXCO wrote to the previous ICDU leadership requesting for Handover Notes to enable us establish the status of what have been attained so as to enable us strategize for progress in this regard. While still awaiting the notes/documents, we have set up a Committee on Ishiagu Electricity Project headed by the Vice President of ICDU, Mr Monday Chukwu. Other members of the Committee include Engr Ifeanyi Makwe, Engr Chrisogonus Okoro, Engr Stephen O. Ukeje, Engr Matthew Ossi, Uzoigwe Emmanuel C. and Mr Joseph Ajah.
20. Though light was stepped down at the Transformer near the Power House at Amaeze Ishiagu on Sunday 10th December, 2023, experts say there is yet so much to be done for Ishiaguans to enjoy the said electricity if the fidelity of the energy from source is ok. While awaiting documentations from the previous administration, the Committee is already going ahead to plan for the next phase of the work and am glad to report to Nde Ishiagu that our Honourable Member, Hon. Dr K**a Nkemkanma Osi and the Local Government Chairman, Hon Chief Emmanuel O. Ajah (Confirm) are closely working with us on this project with budgetary provisions already made in their year 2024 budgets.
21. There is also ongoing effort by all stakeholders towards expanding the reach of Solar Powered Street Lights in different parts of the Town. In 2024, we are saying, Let there be light.......
X. 2023 ISHIAGU CHRISTMAS CAROL:
22. The annual Christmas Carol of the Community under the sponsorship of our Honourable Member, Hon. (Dr.) K**a Nkemkanma Ossi and family was expanded and rechristened OHANIVO Christmas Carol. The event which took place on 23rd December, 2023 was in a class of its own. It was the best one can expect anywhere. We thank God for the opportunity as we continue to pray for the institutionalisation of the program even in the hope that it will become a durable brand available for Tourist attraction in the forthcoming editions.
23. The winners of the Carol Competition went home with the whooping sum of N2.5million Naira while the runners up and the second runners up got N1.5million and N1.0million Naira respectively. While we thank the sponsors, we congratulate St Peters Choir, Ishiagu, St Cecilias Choir Ishiagu and the Choir of Brotherhood of the Cross who came first, second and third in descending order.
XI. THE 2023 ISHIAGU THANKSGIVING/FEAST DAY
24. The 2023 Ishiagu Annual Thanksgiving Day (the fifth in the series) took a new turn this year as Ishiagu Stakeholders declared the Thanksgiving Day as also Ishiagu Annual Feast Day (Mbochi Iri omume). As Ishiaguans, men, women, youth and children, Ministers and lay persons, gathered in their large number filling over 33 double Gazebo Canopies to express profound gratitude to God, even after a 3 Day Revival anchored by Ishiagu Christian Fellowship, we also had swell time to eat, drink and exchange pleasantries.
25. The event which lasted from 10.30am to 3.00pm. was a glorious moment to behold. We sincerely thank the sponsors of the event including Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, Hon. K**a Osi, Chief Ifeanyi C. Okorie, Hon. Makwe Livinus Makwe, Dr. Gideon Osi, Dr. Chinedu Okoro, Mazi Nicholas Osi, Mazi Abuchi Okoro, Dr. Cornelius Chukwudi, Prince Sir Ajah Nwabueze Igwe, Dr Eric Makwe, Mr Olu Earnest, Chief John Anya and yours sincerely. We are also grateful to the planning committee, Ishiagu Ministers, ICDU Federated Women Wing, my EXCO Members, Ishiagu Youth and all who contributed towards the success of the event. Ishiagu is indeed a blessed people.
XII. SETTING UP OF ICDU YOUTH WING.
26. On 23rd October, 2023, I appointed QS David Egwu, MNIQS to the leadership of Ishiagu Youth Wing of ICDU. Qs Egwu, an indigene of Amaokwe Community is a staff of Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu. He is committed to Youth development and welfare. His appointment was widely accepted in the Community. Subsequently, the EXCO appointed other members of the Care Taker Committee of the Youth Wing and the detailed membership of the Youth Wing is as follows:
i. Egwu David
Amaokwe
President
0803 273 6531
ii. Chidi Chukwu E.
Ihie
V. President
0806 319 8456
iii. Okorie Uchechukwu
Ihietutu
Secretary
0806 933 9804
iv. Emmanuel Ugwute O.
Ogwor
Fin. Sec
0806 022 5889
v. Okoro Chinwendu
Ndi Ugbugbo
Treasurer
0806 933 9804
vi. Ajah Charles
Amagu
Provost
0806 802 2266
vii. Eze Kingsley C.
Amata
Asst. Sec.
0708 980 8882
viii. Modestus Onuoha
Obinagu
PRO
0916 458 0119
ix. Ajah Stanley C.
Amonye
Task Force Coordinator
0706 370 8664
27. The Formal inauguration of the Youth Wing leadership was conducted by the President General in the company of the entire EXCO on 3rd November, 2023 at the Ishiagu Civic Centre. The Youth wing has since swung into action and they are also improving well.
XIII. SETTING UP OF ICDU YOUTH TASK FORCE:
28. Still on Youth matters, the EXCO took part in the inauguration of the various Task Force Teams constituted by the Youth Executive on 4th January, 2024. In his remark, the Youth President stated that the various Task Force Teams were set up to complement the efforts of Government in maintaining Law and Order in the town. The ICDU President General urged them not to take laws into their hands but to ensure that rules of engagement are strictly adhered to. He added that theirs was a voluntary service and should not impact negatively on their sources of livelihood. While urging Ishiaguans to cooperate with the youth in this thankless job, he promised to engage them in Skill acquisition and offered to assist through scholarship in sponsoring some of those who may seek to further their education even through distant learning.
29. The Task Force will be split into the following Teams: Road orderliness, Public Sanitation, Market orderliness, Security and Special Services.
XIV. COURTESY VISITS:
30. Aside individual visitations and informal groups visits the President General have received the following delegations on courtesy visits:
i. PTA and School Management of Ishiagu Central School on 15.10.23, the management and PTA of Ishiagu Central School came to show solidarity and informed the President that the entire staff and pupils of the School offered special prayers for his emergence at the election. Mr President thanked them and urged them to ensure that facilities within their school are well maintained even as he promised to reach out to more schools in Ishiagu but not forgetting more works still needed at Ishiagu Central School;
ii. Eze Ego and Friends (a team of young Ishiagu Business Men) whom the President tasked to get on Board as we must ensure that all categories of Ishiagu people are involved in the development of the Town came calling on 15.10.23;
iii. On 20th of October 2023, the President along with the EXCO held a meeting with Representatives of the Various Mining and Stone Quarrying Companies in Ishiagu;
iv. On 21st of October 2023, the President received in audience, a delegation of the Traditional Institution in Ishiagu led by the Traditional Prime Minister of the Agu III of Ishiagu. The delegation gave useful advice and prayed for the President and his team.
V. Also on 21st October, Mr President received the leadership of the Women Wing of Ishiagu Community Development Union (Federated) ably led by the President, Mrs Okafor Helen Ugo. The delegation shared their solidarity with the President and sought for support in realising the initiatives of the Women Wing. At that visit, I did not find it difficult to promise sincere support to our mothers including putting more women in ICDU Committees as I did before and providing funding as well as technical assistance where need be.
vi. On 22nd October, 2023 I received in Audience a delegation of over twenty leaders of ICDU Northern Zone in my Abuja residence led by the Northern Zone President Deacon Nnnaemeka Nwokoro. I received glowing encomiums from the delegation that also charged me with various tasks towards the development of our dear Community and parted with a beautiful Card. I assured them that failure was not part of our dictionary and reminded them that the task was a collective one; therefore every one of us must get involved in every way possible.
vii. On 27th of October 2023, I received a delegation of about 30 Amonye sons resident in Abuja who also came with an Award of Recognition and charge to treat charity well. We discussed in a very convivial atmosphere and I assured them of the Commitment of my EXCO to assist government and our stakeholders in turning around the fortunes of our dear Community.
viii. Amagu Women in Abuja also paid a courtesy visit to yours sincerely in my Abuja Office and we made the culture of our community resonate in the Office even as they presented gift of a Wrapper to your President General.
ix. The Leaders and elders of Amalokpa Hamlet of Amonye, nde nwom (my owners) also came calling with gifts, requests and blessings on 22nd December, 2023. They assured me of their continued prayers and support.
x. Courtesy Visit of Heads of Primary Schools in Ishiagu: On 1ST January, 2024 I received in Audience all the Head Teachers of the 17 Public Primary Schools in Ishiagu. At that interaction, the Teachers expressed heavy hearts on the state of education in Ishiagu. It is so appalling that the dearth of teachers in some school has dropped to as low as 4 teachers in whole school (including the Head Master). They bemoaned the fact that since 2012 there hasnt been recruitment of teachers into the Schools, yet many continue to retire and nature take away some. They also lamented the nonchalant attitude of many community leaders in attending to the needs of the Schools in their domains. They further raised the issue of rampart stealing and wanton destruction of School properties especially by the youth. It was one pain too many that we agreed to address the issues in a more holistic manner along with stakeholders and government.
31. There have been several other visits which for want of space, one may not be able to capture here. On our part, we joined the Ebonyi South Stake Holders for a meeting with H.E. the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State on 29.12.23, and also was part of the OHANIVO delegation to felicitate with the Governor in marking the yuletide on 02.01.24.
XV. RELATIONSHIP WITH STATUTORY BODIES:
ICDU FEDERATED WOMEN WING:
32. Over the past few months, we have met three times with the Leadership of ICDU Women Wing Federated on sundry issues one of which is the completion of the Women Development Centre which further to our intervention, our Honourable Member has promised to wade into and personally visited the Site on 23rd December, 2023. ICDU is currently working on the AS-built drawing with a view to come up with proposed completion drawings and Bill of Quantities to guide further initiatives on the project. We have also provided financial support to the Women Wing as is statutorily required of us.
ICDU FEDERATED YOUTH WING:
33. The EXCO has maintained cordial working relationship with the Youth wing and we are providing formative guidance for their activities and development. The Youth recently compiled a list of the first 35 names of youth to Kick Start the One Youth one Skill initiative, slated to commence this January. The Youths are also being supported financially.
ISHIAGU ELDERS:
34. The President General hosted the Esaa Isagu, led by Elder Ubani in his residence on 26th December, 2023. EXCO have also met our obligations to the elders as provided for in our constitution.
ISHIAGU TRADITIONAL INSTITUTION:
35. The EXCO have continued to reach out to the traditional Institutions in the Town including the Agus Palace, the Ibina I of Okue, the Odu II of Ihie and their Councils. We are determined to carry them along in our bid to reposition the Community for good.
ICDU BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
36. For the very first time in many years, the incumbent leadership of ICDU Federated hosted a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Union.
COMMUNITIES CHAIRMEN FORUM:
37. We have maintained a robust relationship with Chairmen of various Communities in Ishiagu. In furtherance to our quest for inclusivity in this government, we are perfecting plans to commence projects in different Communities beginning with one village per Ward. We have also some of the Chairmen in our Committees. We have also held meetings with delegations of Ngwogwo, Amaonye, Ihietutu & Amata Communities.
38. Pursuant to our peer review initiative and the suggestion for accountability forum, we are planning to promote a platform where Village Chairmen will share with Nde Ishiagu their projects and programs from time to time in the same manner ICDU would be doing.
RELATIONSHIP WITH FEDUNIERS:
39. The EXCO have continued to support the Federated Union of Ishiagu Undergraduates in various ways. Only recently, the EXCO released Bursary provision for the Union and also supported her various activities since assuming office.
MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
40. It is said that any community without “owners” is a lost community. Ishiagu has stakeholders. The EXCO has maintained cordial relationship with all stakeholders. During the last yuletide, we tried to reach a good number and we shall continue to expand our drag net in this regard.
XVI. OUTREACHES TO SECURITY ORGANS IN THE TOWN:
41. Because Security is every ones business, we have maintained the need to support officers and men of the various organs working in our town and we intend to step this up in the New Year.
XVII. OUTREACHES TO OTHERS:
42. The EXCO has maintained outreaches to various bodies in the town. On 18th of October we joined the good people of Ihietutu in the Flag off of Road Project being embarked upon by the Community ably led by the Care Taker Committee Chairman, Chief Emeka Ogbonnaya. We participated in the Launching of Umu Echiele College Staff Welfare Association Maiden Almanac, ICDU Abakaliki Branch End of Year Get Together, Abuja Branch End of Year Get Together, etc.
XVIII. MEETING STATUTORY OBLIGATIONS:
43. The leadership have settled inherited recurrent expenditure Bills and have continued to regularly Meet various monthly/quarterly/Biannual statutory obligations.
XIX. APPOINTMENT OF ADMIN. SECRETARY:
44. Upon assumption of Office, precisely on 16th of October 2023, the President General in liaison with the EXCO appointed a very vibrant and articulate young man to the office of the Administrative Secretary of ICDU to man the Secretariat of the Union. He is Comrade Onu Chinedu Emmanuel a graduate of Political Science who hails from Ogwor Village. Am glad to note that he has been doing well and open to learning.
XX. MEETING WITH PGS FROM OHANIVO
45. On 23rd December, Yours sincerely hosted President General of other Communities in OHANIVO Federal Constituency at Ishiagu. This was in a bid to promote unity, foster peer review and explore options for shared dreams and aspirations. In attendance included Presidents of six Towns while apology was received from three of the remaining four.
XXI. SUCCESSFUL CONDUCT OF COMMUNITY ELECTIONS:
46. During the period under review, Community elections were successfully conducted at Amonye on 27th and at Ihie on 28th December, 2023. That of Amaokwo is next on line and we hope that all future election like the last two will be peaceful.
XXII. CHANGE OF GUARD IN ANO STONE DEALERS LEADERSHIP;
47. Following the botched attempt at electing officers for ANO Stone Dealers Association on 4th of November 2023, the Local Government Chairman in liaison with the vested parties set up a Care Taker Committee headed by Mr James Chukwu.
XXIII. PROCESSING & PAYMENT FOR C OF O FOR ICDU LAND IN ABUJA:
48. Dearly beloved Ishiguans, you may wish to recall that during his stay in office as Senate President, H.E. Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON, had secured the allocation of a parcel of Land for ICDU Federated at Abuja. Several piecemeal efforts by past administrations to possess the property have not yielded the desired result. Only recently, the new Hon. Minister of FCT has heightened the demand for Land Owners to perfect their Titles through payment of Ground Rents and C of O fees or risk losing their allocation. The property measuring about 2500m2 is in a choice part of the City. With a total bill of N8,729,319.55, we had to struggle to defray this cost which one of our illustrious sons, Dr. Chinedu Okoro had assisted us pay to avoid losing the property. While we are yet to complete the payment, we are glad to report that we have made substantial progress in this regard. Fin Sec will update us in due course.
XXIV. PROGRESS ON THE ISHIAGU NEW MARKET PROJECT:
49. The good people of Amaeze has graciously offered yet again a parcel of land measuring about 16hactares bordering the Raiway line. My able Vice President, Mr Monday Chukwu led the ICDU EXCO to access the land on 3oth October, 2023. Profiling of owners of plots at the location has been done. Preliminary survey has been completed. Detailed site analysis, Topographical survey and perimeter survey to aid preparation of preliminary and detailed site development Plan and processing of C of O after perfecting the transfer rights are in the works.
50. We are glad to note with gratitude that the Executive Chairman of the Local Government has allowed for funds in this years Budget to support the New Market project and many Ishiguans are already waiting to key into the project. This is one project that will change the trajectory of our Community development for good when realised. We are looking forward to flagging off the project before the end of first quarter of 2024.
XXV. SUPPORT TO ISHIAGU SECURITY OUTFIT:
51. Securing the community is no mean duty and we do not take this lightly. However, issues of security are usually not shared in detail in the public. We have continued to do a lot in collaboration with the Local Government and all concerned. One area we would wish to request citizens support is in the provision of discreet intelligence on security; please see something, say something. But throwing information on social media platforms may compromise right action and should be avoided.
52. It is also important to state that levels of communication should be respected as much as possible. If we must achieve desired result, we must respect hierarchy. In addition, roles at different levels are vital. Hamlets and Villages must endeavour to play their own part even as the town, the LGA and the State will be expected to do its own.
53. May I also report that sometime within the first month of our assumption of office, we lost one of the young men who labour in the fields to protect the Community? We did our bit towards the deceased and we pray God to show him merciful judgement for peaceful repose.
54. During the yuletide, the EXCO also feted with the Ishiagu Security team in our bid to encourage them in their service to the community.
XXVI. SUNDRY PROGRAMS:
55. MATERNAL NEW BORN CHILD HEALTH WEEK STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT AND AWARENESS: This event took place at Abakaliki on 8th November, 2023 and we were duly represented by the Secretary.
56. COMMISSIONING OF HOSTEL BUILT BY IHIE COMMUNITY: On 24th December, 2023 accompanied by my Secretary General, I commissioned a Hostel Block built by Ihie Community under the leadership of Mr. Elijah Okechukwu Orji, who doubles as the Fin. Sec. of ICDU Federated. We were impressed that Ihie Community, though not a mineral resources producing community could realize such a project.
57. In a similar vein, we also cut the tape to declare official Parcels of Land designated and fenced for the proposed Palace of the Odu of Ihie and Community Social/Civic Centre. One is greatly impressed by the futuristic thinking of Ihie community. This is truly the way to go and other villages are encouraged to take a cue from them.
58. OHANIVO SPORTS COMPETITION: Ishiagu Community through the Ishiagu Foiotball Federation (IFF) participated in the Maiden OHANIVO Football Competition (Unity Cup) sponsored and organised by our performing Honourable Member, Hon. K**a N. Osi. The Finals was played on 30th December, 2023 at Obiozara and Ishiagu lifted the trophy. We congratulate IFF for making us proud in this competition.
59. 80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION OF EZINNE ELIZABETH UZOARU ONU: Also on 30th December, 2023 Ishiagu people and friends from other parts of the world gathered at Amagu to celebrate one of our finest Amazons, Lady Elizabeth Uzoaru Onu, mother of some of our great benefactors, Cajetan, Emma, etc. It was a memorable event. We pray God to continue to sustain Ezinne in good health for many more years.
60. OHANIVO UNITY CARNIVAL 2024: The Maiden edition of OHANIVO Cultural Carnival took place at Onicha Igboeze. The cultural fiesta sponsored by the Honourable Member Representing Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency, our great Son, Hon. K**a Osi was the first of its kind. It included cultural displays from different Towns/groups in the constituency, Awards to distinguished pillars of our constituency, etc. Ishiagu was fully represented at the event by the ICDU EXCO ably led by me, the Agu III of Ishiagu and Palace Chiefs, the President General ICDU Women Wing leading our Mothers, the President Youth Wing leading our youths and select cultural troupes.
XXVII. HEALTH SECTOR OUTREACHES & INITIATIVES:
61. Within the last two months very special Health Outreaches were held in the Community. One was organised by the HIPE Foundation under the sponsorship of Hon (Dr.) K**a N. Osi, at the beginning of the month of December for five (5) days, while the other was organised by Pleroma Foundation in Honour of Mrs Nkechi Christiana Okoro between 26th 28th December, 2023. ICDU fully supported these programs and we are grateful to the sponsors. God bless them for us.
62. Further to efforts in the Health Sector, I received the Medical Officer in charge of Ishiagu General Hospital, Dr. Chimaobim Francis Agwu on 3rd January, 2024. We x-rayed the challenges confronting the hospital and deliberated on how to tackle some critical ones. He informed us that two medical doctors were recently posted to the Hospital and that accommodation was their most pressing challenge. We immediately directed Works and Health Committees to visit the facility and come up with a report and suggestions to guide our further action.
63. Consequently, we have directed the Works Committee to commence rehabilitation of the Doctors Quarters so as to ensure the presence of Resident Doctors in the Hospital. The absence of a sign board to provide basic information on the hospital will also be addressed especially considering that the old General Hospital at Amaokwo is still hosting the hospitals sign board. We also agreed on some of the expectations of the State while urging them to take their services conscientiously to build the confidence of the people in their services.
XXVIII. CONDOLENCES TO BEREAVED STAKEHOLDERS OF THE COMMUNITY
64. Within the period in reference, we received and attended to invitations to a number of funerals including the Chairperson of our local Government, Mrs Okezie (sister to our local Government Chairman) who was buried on 01.12.23, Mrs Orieke Mary Ndukwe (Mother of the Former Chairman of Amaonye Cater Taker Committee, Comrade Maduabuchi Ndukwe and Hon Ejiofor Ndukwe former leader of Ivo Legislative Council), who was buried on 3rd Nov. 2023, Mrs Helen Leechi Ajah (mother of a former Secretary General of our Town Union, and a former Chairman of Women Affairs Committee, Mr Remigius Ajah and Dr Patrick Ajah) who was buried on 24th November, 2023 and Late Ezinna Godwin Okorie, (father of Mazi Elias Okorie of Amanchi Amagu) who was buried on 21.12.23. We pray that God would grant their souls peaceful repose.
65. On yet another sad note, we received the news of the death of a foremost educationist and vanguard of Community Development, Chief Benedict I. Egu who went to be with the Lord on 31st October, 2023. His death even at the ripe age of 90 is a great loss to the entire town. We urge Mr. Victor, Charles and the immediate family to please take heart as we continue to seek heavens kindness towards his eternal repose.
66. While I was concluding this briefing, this morning, I received with heavy heart, the news of the passing unto eternal glory of the First Religious from the entire OHANIVO Federal Constituency, Rev. Sr. Agnella Ori Ajah, from Amaeya, Amalokpa Amonye, Ishiagu. Sr Agnella who had her First Religious Profession in 1981 in the congregation of the Sisters of Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM), died at IHM Hospital Onitsha. She certainly has fought a good time and is favoured of God to join the saints triumphant. May God grant her the favour to continue to pray for Ishiagu her beloved community along with our other saintly ancestors.
XXIX: IMMINENT PROGRAMS/PROJECTS:
67. Amongst the imminent programs and projects of the Union include:
Schools Rehabilitation program beginning with Unity Secondary School, Obinagu, Ishiagu;
Teachers Seminar billed for March, 2024;
Ishiagu Leaders Retreat/Easter General Assembly;
Inauguration of Ishiagu Annual Social Development Magazine;
One Youth one Skill Program Phase I;
Inter-Schools Competitions amongst Primary & Secondary Schools;
Resumption of Echiele Nnawo Radio Program;
Renovation of Doctors Quarters at Ishiagu Geneeral Hospital; and
Ishiagu Inter Schools Games.
###. CONCLUSION
68. It has been quite an eventful period without much publicity. Members of the EXCO and I are determined to go far in our avowed quest for a better Ishiagu Community and we can testify that so many good spirited Ishiaguans are keen at this too. Together we can do it, and together we surely will. You can join the train by reaching out to us from any part of the world to contribute your time, talent and/or treasure towards the development of Ishiagu. There is enough room for all of us.
69. Our Website will soon be rolled out to enable everyone real-time access to information on our activities and projects.
70. God bless Ishiagu in her people and her land.
Arc Ajah M. N., fnia
President General, ICDU
(01.07.2024)
