Non-indigenes
By Chukwuemeka Opara
Abakaliki, Sept.26, 2018 (NAN) Non-indigenes in Ebonyi have resolved to mobilise and ensure the success of the 2019 general elections and the continuation of good governance in the state.
Mr Charlse Akpuenika, Leader of the non-indigenes in the state, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abakaliki that they would participate actively in the 2019 elections and ensure its overall success.
Akpuenika, who is the state Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, said that the members participated actively in the recent voters’ registration exercise, adding that majority of them had collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC).
“We are aware of the recent political occurrences in the country and want to identify with Nigerians’ resolve to enshrine good governance and strengthening democracy in the process.”
The commissioner noted that the non-indigenes were gratified with the enabling environment provided by the state government, making them feel part of the state’s polity.
“The present administration of Chief David Umahi ranks highest in the appointment of non-indigenes into political and other sensitive positions in the state since its creation.
“The government adopts a policy which gives all persons equal opportunities in the state, no matter the areas they come from in the country.
“Members who are engaged in various forms of businesses also operate equitably, which has maintained the trend of private businesses especially of non-indigenes, thriving in Ebonyi.”
He noted that the government’s acceptance of non-indigenes extends to the state’s civil service, where the rate of enrolment is appreciably high when compared to other states.
“We encourage our members who have not collected their PVCs to do so before the election, to ensure that the conducive atmosphere in which they operate in the state, is sustained.
“It is only logical that they support continuity in the state’s governance by voting for the governor, to show appreciation for all his gestures towards them,” Akpuenika said. (NAN)
RCO/NKO
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Edited by Nkechi Okoronkwo