Obiano Sworn In As Governor Amidst Pump And Funfair
Anambrarians yesterday trooped out in their thousands at Ekwueme Park, Awka to be part of history as Dr. Willie Obiano was sworn in as the governor of the state. Obiano who was elected governor on November 16, 2013 gubertorial polls was accompanied by his wife, son and daughter as he was administered the oat of office by the Chief Judge of the state, Hon Justice P. C. Umeano. Also sworn in was the deputy governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke ably supported by his wife.
In his acceptance speech after his swearing in, Obiano said the remarkable achievement of governor Peter obis eight years government under the leadership of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), has completely changed Anambras narrative from the story of near-bankruptcy to that of the only state in the federation that hosts Nigeria's first indigenous automobile manufacturing plant.
In a speech titled Expanding the Frontiers of Excellence, Obiano who is the fourth democratically elected governor Anambra State sought to rouse the consciousness of ndi Anambra by reminding them of the Igbo industry and ingenuity when he said 'a people who astonished the world with their ingenuity and resourcefulness during wartime can lend a weighty hand to efforts to re-make our world in peace-time.' The time has come to prove to ourselves that the entrepreneurial spirit for which we are known all over the world can take firm roots at home; that together as one we can be masters. Under my administration, we have no choice than to decide whether we are truly the sons and daughters of our fathers and true heirs to their long history of pioneering excellence! He asserted.
Obiano's call for love was further affirmed by President Jonathan through his representative Senator Ben Ndi Obi, an adviser on Inter-party affairs who said that the present peaceful dispensation which the state enjoys evidently displayed at the celebrations should be sustained. President Jonathan confirmed public speculations about Governor Obi political career at the Presidency as a soon to be federal executive council member.
Earlier in his speech, Obi, in an emotion laden voice said that the inauguration ceremony was historic as no time in the history of even the old Anambra state has a sitting governor ever handed over to an incoming governor. "When I was sworn in as governor I had no lodge, I had no government house. I Came with my car and I am leaving with my car. From here, Obiano is driving to governor office in bullet proof car. Am leaving and my job is finished. Anambra has returned to what it used to be and am going back to my house. Today, we can look round and say we have a state, we have schools."
Obi said Anambra state is the most financially viable state in the federation as he purchased bond from all the states. "We are not indebted to anybody. The states are owing us we are not owing them. My Prayer is that you should remember Obiano in your prayer, show him love support, not pull him down."
And to Obiano, Obi had just one request "Your agreement is with the children of Anambra state. Give them a better future, give them a better Anambra and it will be well with you."
The celebration marked a united front by politicians in the state with all local governments and their officials present despite their political inclinations. It is the first time in the history of Anambra State of a successful transition of power between two governors in a civil and democratic atmosphere.
Other dignitaries at the elaborate occasion were Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu. Chairman south east governor forum and Abia state governor, Chief Theodore Orji, out going deputy governor, Emeka Sibeudu, APGA National Chairman, Chief Victor Umeh, Speaker Anambra, Princess Nwaebili, Prince Arthur, Emeka Ofor among numerous other dignitaries from within and outside the state.
Traditional dance groups from different parts of the state we're also in attendance to entertain the audience.