Buhari returns to Abuja after two-day working visit to South-East

President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to Abuja after a two-day official visit to Ebonyi and Anambra in the South East region.
The President’s visit was the first since the inception of the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government.
Buhari, who commenced the visit on Nov. 14 with a state visit to Ebonyi, assured the people of South-East that his administration would ensure timely execution of roads, power and other projects in the region.
He gave the assurance when he addressed Ebonyi State Leaders of Thought and Traditional Rulers at a meeting in Government House, Abakiliki.
The President, who was also hosted to a state dinner organised in his honour, commended Ebonyi people for the warm reception accorded him during the state visit.
He said that the visit was clear demonstration of his administration’s strong belief in the unity of Nigeria.
Buhari inaugurated the 14.5km Abakiliki-Afikpo Federal road constructed by the Ebonyi Government and launched the 700-metre dual flyover over the Trans-Sahara route, running from Enugu to Cameroon, and the Sen. Offia Nwali flyover, all in the state capital.
The President also performed the foundation-stone laying ceremonies of Ebonyi City Mall, another flyover and road tunnel named after him.
He unveiled the statue of Sir Akanu Ibiam, former Governor of the old Eastern region, whom he described as “a great Nigerian, whose notable records of humanitarianism, advocacy of free primary education and rural development would continue to be an inspiration to all.’’
Buhari, who commended Gov. David Umahi for ”his vision and commitment to the development of the state,” also thanked traditional rulers in the state, led by Eze Charles Mkpuna for conferring him with the chieftaincy title of Enyioma 1 of Ebonyi (Trustworthy friend of Ebonyi).
At another event with South East traditional rulers led by Eze Eberechi Dick, the President was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ochioha Ndigbo (Leader of Igbo people).
He was also in Akwa, capital of Anambra, in continuation of the two-day visit to the South East.
While in Awka, Buhari ordered the police to restore security to Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra and called for massive support to Mr Tony Nwoye, APC’s governorship candidate.
He called on the people of Anambra to vote Nwoye of APC in the Nov. 18 election.
The President made the call in a short speech at the grand finale of the governorship rally held for the APC governorship candidate.
He said Anambra people would benefit much if they voted for APC.
Meanwhile, Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo says President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to the South-East especially Anambra, was to extend a hand of fellowship to the people and to fix the political bridge that that links the centre to the region.
Okorocha said this while addressing party faithful at the grand finale campaign of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Anambra governorship election scheduled to hold on Saturday.
“I see your visit as not only to campaign for Tony Nwoye but to extend your hand of fellowship to the people of the South-East.
“It is indeed a turning point; be rest assured that Igbos love you.”
Okorocha said there was nothing wrong with other candidates contesting the poll, but noted that Nwoye’s victory would ensure that the political bridge between the centre and the region was fixed.
In his speech, Governor Mohammed Abubakar of Bauchi State said the Igbo are too important to the federation to operate at the peripheral level.
“Let nobody deceive you into believing that APC is a sectional party; leaders of the party are from various sections of the country.
“The evolution to take you back to the mainstream has commenced; we want you to cash in by voting Nwoye on Saturday,” Abubakar, also the chairman, National Campaign Committee for Anambra Governorship election, added.
Former Senate President Ken Nnamani urged the people of the region to embrace APC in its interest.
Nnamani also stressed the need for the electoral body to ensure free and fair election.
“Let us use the ballot boxes rather than bullets on Saturday,” the party chieftain said.
Sen. Andy Uba and Chief George Muoghalu, who spoke on behalf of other aspirants during the party’s
primary, also expressed excitement at Buhari’s visit and assured him of Nwoye’s victory.
“We will do our best to ensure that APC wins clean and fair on Saturday,” Muoghalu said.
Other stakeholders, who spoke at the event included Chief Jim Nwobodo, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, Sen. Uche Ekwunife and APC National Women Leader, Mrs Ramatu Aliyu, among others.
The president had visited Ebonyi on Tuesday and inaugurated some projects.