From Chijioke Ufoh, Abakaliki
The people of Igbo-Esa Clan in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have expressed appreciation to Governor Francis Nwifuru for locating the proposed Abakaliki Cement Factory in their community, describing the decision as a major milestone that will accelerate socio-economic development in the area.
In a statement jointly issued under the auspices of the Igbo-Esa General Assembly and endorsed by traditional rulers, community leaders and political stakeholders, the group commended the governor’s people-oriented administration and its developmental strides across the state.
The community pledged its full cooperation towards the successful establishment of the cement factory, assuring the state government of a peaceful and enabling environment for the execution of the project.
The leaders also endorsed the official name proposed for the factory, stating that the people of Igbo-Esa accepted it without reservation.
Reacting to criticisms circulating on social media over the naming of the proposed factory Abakaliki Cement Factory, the assembly urged Nwifuru to disregard the publications, insisting they did not reflect the position of the host communities.
According to the statement, the campaign against the project’s name was allegedly orchestrated by detractors rather than genuine stakeholders from Igbo-Esa.
The assembly reaffirmed its unwavering support for Nwifuru’s administration and expressed confidence in his leadership, pledging continued backing for his developmental agenda and political aspirations ahead of the 2027 elections.
The statement was signed by traditional rulers from Nkalagu, Umuhali, Nkalaha, Ezillo, Obegu and Amezu communities, alongside President-Generals of the various communities, the Executive Chairman of Ishielu Local Government Area, Hon Mrs. Peace Ifeoma Agwu, the President-General of Igbo-Esa General Assembly, Hon James Abba, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Ishielu Local Government Area, Hon Ikechukwu Abba