By Jimitota Onoyume

Chiedu Ebie has emerged as a political treasure and a rallying point in Ika politics, according to a statement by Chidimma Nwankwo, a political commentator from the area. The statement was made available to newsmen earlier this week.

Nwankwo drew a powerful analogy in describing Ebie’s political journey:

“The phrase ‘the stone which the builders rejected’ is a Biblical metaphor from Psalm 118:22, describing Jesus Christ, who was initially rejected but later became the cornerstone of God’s plan for salvation. In ancient building practices, any stone that did not meet the builder’s standard was discarded. However, that rejected stone could later become the most important part of the structure.”

He continued:

“Let it be clear that Mr. Chiedu Ebie is not Jesus Christ, and neither this piece nor its author seeks to ascribe such status or role to him. However, his public service journey strongly reflects the idea embodied in that metaphor.”

Highlighting Ebie’s trajectory, Nwankwo noted that after 22 years of legal practice in the private sector, Ebie was appointed Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in Delta State from July 2015 to May 2019. During his tenure, he brought about notable reforms and improvements to the educational sector.

On June 3, 2019, Ebie was appointed Secretary to the Delta State Government. Recalling the then governor’s words at his inauguration, Nwankwo quoted:

“Mr. Ebie is a fine gentleman who served meritoriously as Commissioner. His civility, analytical depth, communication skills, and diligence are essential qualities needed for the office of the Secretary to the State Government… Mr. Ebie meets these criteria and is well-equipped to enrich the social, political, and economic narrative of our dear state.”

According to Nwankwo, Ebie lived up to the governor’s expectations and performed admirably as SSG, earning respect across the state.

After his service ended in May 2021, Ebie returned to the private sector while remaining active in politics. In 2023, he was suspended by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over allegations of anti-party activities—charges that were never substantiated.

Despite what Nwankwo described as “persecutions, harassment, and deprivations,” Ebie remained calm and strategic. During this period, he reportedly made the calculated move to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Today,” Nwankwo concluded, “the man once rejected has emerged not only as the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), but also as a central figure in Ika politics. He is redefining governance, championing infrastructural development in Ika Federal Constituency, and promoting peace and harmony across the Ika nation.”