By Jude Eze
Yesterday, as I sat behind the microphone at Radio Nigeria Voice FM Nsukka during the “Voice Connect” live program, I had a rare privilege to engage directly with the people of Udenu Local Government Area and the wider public. The topic? Chairman Aka Eze Aka’s first 100 days in office. The response from callers was both heartwarming and illuminating, painting a picture of a leader who has not only won the trust of his people but has also begun to etch his name in the annals of good governance.
One caller described him as “a man who listens and acts,” while another remarked, “Aka Eze Aka is building a legacy that will endure.” The phone lines buzzed with voices of gratitude, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of admiration for a leader who has achieved so much in so little time.
As John C. Maxwell famously said, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Chairman Aka Eze Aka exemplifies this in every sense. His first 100 days in office have been nothing short of transformational, and here’s why.
Everyone agrees that roads are the arteries of any community, and Chairman Aka understands this deeply. Under his leadership, some roads have been rehabilitated to ease transportation and boost economic activities. The Ozo Ji—Ukwu Akpu—Old Oturkpo link road is nearing completion at 95%, while grating works are ongoing in Amalla and three other communities. These projects have not only improved accessibility but have also rekindled hope in a government that prioritizes the needs of its people.
In the area of Youth and Women Empowerment and Skill up programme, he has hit the ground running.
Four weeks ago, Udenu witnessed a week-long empowerment program that equipped numerous youths and women with skills and resources such as soap making, catering services, Tech innovations etc, to become self-reliant. Held at the Multipurpose Hall of Udenu Secretariat, this initiative done in collaboration with the State Ministry of Youths and Sport, underscores Aka’s belief in the transformative power of empowerment. This was an exemplary effort at human capital development.
In education and healthcare which are the bedrock of any thriving society, the Mayor has prioritised both. Schools in Udenu are receiving much-needed learning materials, a gesture aimed at enhancing the quality of education. Meanwhile, primary healthcare centers are undergoing upgrades to provide better medical services. The ambitious plan to establish the Udenu Ultramodern Medical Center as contained in the 2025 fiscal budget summarises his visionary leadership.
In the area of fostering inclusivity through Community engagement, Aka knew that good governance thrives on inclusivity, and his approach is a masterclass in participatory leadership. By constituting committees—ranging from the Tax Reform Standing Committee to the Orba Market Traders’ Caretaker Committee, and the much-extolled Economic Team—he has ensured that every stakeholder has a voice. As Aka puts it, “Democracy works best when people lead themselves through leadership.”
On Security and Peace, Udenu experienced a peaceful yuletide under his watch. He has sustained the tempo from the previous administration’s effort. Through strategic security meetings and the reorganisation of the Neighborhood Watch Security Outfit, he has created an environment where peace reigns supreme. He rejigged the Neighborhood Watch Security Outfit, and modified its leadership. And the result is the peaceful yuletide our people just had during this Christmas festivities. No record of breakdown of law and order has been seen since he came into office. And he still keeps an eagle eye on the street. His proactive stance reflects the adage, “Prevention is better than cure.”
On recovering of stolen government property, the Mayor on November 19, last year, set up a high-powered panel of inquiry to uncover the perpetrators behind the looting of the Udenu Cashew Processing Factory, located in Obollo-Afor. The Panel, chaired by Barr. O.J Uchenna is due to submit its report.
Furthermore, caring for the less Privileged and Disabled is paramount in Aka’s administration. Twice in 100 days, Aka has met with representatives of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), providing walking aid, hearing aid, and even employment opportunities. This aligns with Governor Peter Mbah’s inclusive employment policy and showcases Aka’s commitment to leaving no one behind.
In the area of innovative urbanization and infrastructure development, Aka is a wonder.
Urbanisation plans, like the proposed Maryland Economic City, reveal his forward-thinking approach. This mega-market project, designed to overcome the geophysical constraints of the three major existing markets — Orba, Obollo Afor and Obollo Eke markets, promises to be a game-changer. Additionally, the ongoing renovation of the Local Government Secretariat and plans to revamp the Greater Udenu Water Scheme at Isi Engine Umuezejor, reflect his dedication to sustainable development.
His achievements are complemented by his appointments of capable individuals, including Rt. Hon. Chika Aroh as Secretary to the Local Government and Barr. Ikechukwu Eze as Legal Adviser. Dr. Chidiebere Nnamani — Consultant on Revenue Collection. Okpe Henry Chijioke — Special Assistant on Environment. Kingsley Ugwuonah —Technical Assistant. Jude Eze — Special Assistant on Media and Publicity. Onyekachi C. Ugwu who oversees Special Duties.These appointments are not just strategic but also reflect his knack for assembling a team that shares his vision for Udenu.
The Chairman’s collaboration with his wife, the First Lady of Udenu, to combat gender-based violence and champion women’s emancipation adds a deeply human touch to his leadership. Their efforts, in partnership with the Enugu State First Lady, have sparked hope for a more equitable society.
As I reflect on my experience at the radio programme today, I am reminded of the words of Theodore Roosevelt: “The best Executive is the one who has sense enough to pick good people to do what he wants done, and self-restraint to keep from meddling with them while they do it.” Aka Eze Aka embodies this wisdom, steering Udenu towards a brighter future with humility, vision, and purpose.
In just 100 days, Aka has demonstrated that leadership is not about wielding power but about empowering others. His journey so far is a beacon of hope, and if these first 100 days are any indication, Udenu is on the cusp of a golden era. Indeed, the people of Udenu have every reason to be optimistic, for their leader is not just leading them—he is walking alongside them, every step of the way.
Jude Eze is Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Chairman, Udenu Local Government Area, Enugu State.
