Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on Sunday announced a cash gift of ₦10 million to Jeremiah Obaji, a Trek-a-thon Hero who walked for 17 days from Ikorodu, Lagos State, to Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.
Obaji, an indigene of the newly created Anioma autonomous community in the defunct Effium community, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, arrived in Abakaliki on Sunday, completing the 17-day journey.
He said he embarked on the trek to appreciate Governor Nwifuru for restoring peace to the Effium community, which had been devastated by a communal war that claimed hundreds of lives and destroyed property worth billions of naira.
“My community was in serious crisis. Many lives were lost and properties destroyed. My parents, in-laws, and other relatives are here in Abakaliki because of the war. I have been taking care of them, and I developed high blood pressure from the trauma of the crisis.
“I am based in Ikorodu, Lagos, where I do business. I thought of what I could do to thank our dear Governor for restoring peace to my community, something past administrations could not achieve. So, I decided to trek from Ikorodu to Abakaliki, and here I am to thank His Excellency,” Obaji told the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Professor Emmanuel Echiegu, who received him on Nwifuru’s behalf.
Responding, Governor Nwifuru assured that his administration would continue to prioritize peace across the state in line with his People’s Charter of Needs manifesto.
He commended Obaji for his determination and sacrifice, describing the 17-day trek as an extraordinary gesture of appreciation. The Governor then announced a ₦10 million cash gift to enable Obaji to recover his health, noting his worn-out appearance after the long journey.
