…as group endorses Nwosu

By Anayo Okoli & Eric Ugbor

UMUAHIA — Two-time Deputy Governor of Abia State, Elder Eric  Nwakanma, has officially declared his intention to run for the governorship seat under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, saying he was the most qualified for the job.

This came against the backdrop of endorsement of Friday Nwosu by a socio-political group in the state, Old Bende Patriots, as the best candidate for the job.
Nwakanma, who served both former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu and incumbent, Theodore Orji, as deputy governor made his intention known last week at the PDP state office when he visited to inform the leadership of the party of his desire to contest.

Believed to be very close to Governor Orji and had even been touted as anointed candidate, Nwakanma said his antecedents of serving as Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly and two-time Deputy Governor showed that he was prepared by destiny to be the governor of the state.
Nwakanma said he had been around the corridors of power in the last 15 years, adding that this had  prepared him to govern the state, and pledged not to disappoint the people if he got the mandate.

He said:  “I came here for a purpose; to think of better Abia, to consolidate on the foundation so far laid by the Ochendo.
“My antecedents showed that God has been nurturing me to be governor of Abia State and if I am given the opportunity, I will not disappoint the state.
“I am very prepared mentally, physically and spiritually to be the governor of Abia State.

In his response, PDP chairman in the state, Senator Emma Nwaka, commended Nwakanma for nursing the ambition and assured of a level playing ground for the aspirants.
However, a socio-political group in Abia State, Old Bende Patriots, has endorsed Friday Nwosu and resolved to support  him as its candidate for the 2015 governorship election, describing him as best suited to succeed Governor Theodore Orji as next governor of the state.

The group, which has its membership   spread   across   Abia North and Abia Central zones, also commended Governor Orji and the state chapter of the PDP for insisting that power should shift to Abia South zone in 2015.
Making the declaration during its meeting in Umuahia, the group, represented by its Secretary, Ben Ukandu; Izuchukwu Nwosu, and a former council chairperson, Princess Grace Agbara, aintained that Abia State needed a man who had the capacity to build bridges of unity in the state.