Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The Labour Party’s House of Representatives candidate for Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency in the 2023 elections, Dr. Emmanuel Eze, has rejected his appointment by Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State into the newly constituted Economic Advisory Committee.
Governor Nwifuru had named Eze as a member of the 15-man committee, chaired by Nigeria’s former Minister of Power, Prof. Bart Nnaji.
Appointment
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Grace Umezurike, in a letter dated August 29, 2025, informed Dr. Eze that the State Executive Council, at its meeting of July 14, approved the constitution of the Economic Advisory Committee to steer the state towards economic prosperity.
According to the letter, the inauguration ceremony was scheduled for Monday, September 1, 2025, at the Governor’s Conference Room, Centenary City, Abakaliki, where the governor was expected to issue the terms of reference to members.
Rejection
In a prompt response addressed to Governor Nwifuru through the SSG, Dr. Eze politely but firmly declined the appointment.
While expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him, Eze recalled that he had personally suggested the formation of such a body shortly after the governor’s inauguration—a moment he described as a privilege to witness.
He argued, however, that economic advisory committees are most effective when established at the beginning of an administration, thereby allowing members sufficient time to shape policies and drive reforms.
Eze further explained that his current responsibilities already provide him with a platform to contribute to Ebonyi’s development, but reassured the governor of his unwavering commitment to the state’s prosperity.
“I remain open to future opportunities to contribute in alignment with my ongoing engagements and the broader interests of our people,” he stated.
Dr. Eze, who holds a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA), is the Group CEO of Immaculate Group of Companies and has remained an influential voice in Ebonyi’s political and economic space since contesting the 2023 general elections.
Reactions
His rejection of the appointment has sparked political debate in the state.
A political analyst, Chike Onwe, praised Eze’s decision, describing it as “a rare display of personal integrity and contentment.”
“Eze’s quiet refusal stands in contrast to the growing culture of opportunism, where many leap at any chance to remain in circulation, mistaking visibility for relevance,” Onwe said. “For choosing dignity over convenience, he deserves commendation.”
However, Onwe faulted Eze’s claim that the constitution of the committee was belated.
“To argue that the initiative came too late is to misread its vision. Economic revitalization is not a quick-fix political gesture but a long-term plan that should outlive any administration. Governance is a continuum; what matters is not when a project begins but its seriousness and sustainability,” he said.
Inauguration
Meanwhile, Governor Nwifuru on Monday inaugurated the 15-member Economic Advisory Committee, comprising economists, industrialists, and technocrats.
Members include: Prof. Bart Nnaji (Chairman), Ben Oka, Mrs. Augustina Nwaoma Ekuma, Dr. Joe Abah, Ituma Chukwuemeka Enviable, Gen. Abel Obi Umahi (rtd), Chibuike Orogwu, Dominic Nwibo, Elechi Innocent Ojiugwo, Anayo Omoke, Mark Abani, Ifeanyi Clement Okorie, Edward Nkwegu, Mike Chukwu, and the State Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Ben Odoh, who serves as secretary.
Governor Nwifuru explained that the committee was designed to tackle challenges such as erratic power supply, solid mineral development, and industrialization.
“We want to industrialize this state. We want to show the world that we have what it takes to do business. That is why we must sit down and bring experts to guide us,” the governor said.
He specifically tasked the committee with reactivating the Nigeria Cement Company (NIGERCEM), Nkalagu, establishing another cement factory, and setting up a salt production plant to match Ebonyi’s identity as the “Salt of the Nation.”
Responding on behalf of members, Prof. Nnaji commended the governor’s vision and pledged that the committee would bring its wealth of experience to bear in repositioning Ebonyi’s economy.
