Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Ebonyi state has a new Governor. He is Rt Hon Francis Ogbonnaya Nwifuru, immediate former speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly.
He was sworn-in moments ago by the State Chief Judge, Elvis Ngene at the Pa Ngele Oruta Stadium Abakaliki.
He becomes the 4th Democratically elected governor of the state taking over from David Umahi.
His Deputy, Patricia Obila, also took the oath of office. She takes over from Kelechi Igwe.
In his inaugural speech, Mr Nwifuru promised to serve the people with the fear of God.
He said his administration will collaborate with all who have the interest of the state at heart for the development of the Ebonyi State.
He extended an olive branch to his opponents who went to court to challenge his election.
He urged them to withdraw their suits promising to carry them along in his government.
Rt Hon Nwifuru, who promised to administer the state with fear of God, however, noted that his government will be fair and just to all.
He thanked the former governor, David Umahi, and all who in one way or the other helped him to become the governor of the state.
Earlier, in his handover speech, the immediate past governor, David Umahi, thanked the people of the stage for the support which enabled him to fulfill all his campaign promises.
He advised the new governor to take unity and peace of the state to heart and to always ensure equity, justice and fairness in all his considerations without fear or favour, affection or ill will.
He appealed to the people of the state to give the new governor unflinching support and solidarity throughout his tenure.
