BY PETER OKUTU
Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State yesterday tongue-lashed wife of former governor of the state, Mrs. Eunice Egwu, over her remarks that he would not return to office for another term in this year’s general election.

The governor, who spoke through the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Egwu Chima, wondered the authority Mrs. Egwu had to make such remarks, adding that Governor Elechi, being one of the very few that conceived the creation of the state, deserved nothing less but commendations.

Egwu, who stated that the present administration was cautious of not unveiling the many ugly episodes of the former administration because of its commitment towards peace and security, noted that the PDP-led government could not afford to be frivolous with the state’s financial resources.

According to him, “criticisms on and about Chief Elechi on his governance, just because it lacks jamboree, are unfortunate and all Ebonyians, including those who reside in Ebonyi should applaud the governor for his good works.

“Let the former first lady of Ebonyi State, Mrs. Eunice Egwu, be reminded that Chief Martin Elechi’s magnanimity and benevolence in putting so many ugly things behind, just because he does not want any Ebonyi citizen to be in trouble, is never a sign of weakness.

“Mrs. Egwu built Hope High and ensured forcefully that the government was used to pay for hundreds of students and pupils on scholarship which went into her pocket.

“Mrs. Elechi has built no school for herself and while Mrs. Egwu has a Widow Care Centre, Mrs. Elechi has none for her private mercantilism and personal aggrandizement.”

He enumerated the accomplishments of the present administration in the area of roads, bridges, water schemes, boarding schools, cultural centres, human capacity development, staff promotions, employment, youth empowerment, peace and stability.

He criticized the last administration as having left behind uncompleted projects, which were currently being handled by the governor of the state.