*By David Uka, Abakaliki*
The Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has kicked off his presidential campaign in Ebonyi State.
He endorsed Governor David Umahi for a second term.
He said the choice of Ebonyi State was based on the developmental agenda of the present administration and it’s leadership prowess and his quest for inclusiveness in governance.
Saraki who spoke to stakeholders in Ebonyi State said Nigeria is at a crossroads.
He said Nigeria has never been so divided like it is now and lamented that the unity the nation’s founding fathers propagated is at the verge of collapse while the country is drifting into anarchy.
He said “There is a high level of uninclusisivness in the country. We must choose leaders that have capacity to move the country forward. What you are seeing in Ebonyi is not by chance, it is because your governor has capacity that is why you are witnessing development. How then can you choose a man with capacity in your state without choosing also a leader with capacity at the national level
“We fight poverty, we will fight corruption too and not do a selective corruption fight. We will develop solid minerals in Ebonyi State. We will bring private investors into the country and encourage youth involvement in governance by bringing youths to governance”
Governor David Umahi who was presented with the governorship nominaton form purchased on his behalf by members of the State Executive Council described Senator Saraki as a refined Nigerian and defender of democracy as well as friend to Ebonyi State.
Governor Umahi reiterated his earlier promise to return power to Abakaliki bloc in 2023 after his second term, adding that his administration remains focused on the developmental agenda.
“We will handover a state that is most beautiful, best economy and the richest in the country”
He commended Saraki for standing firm over the various crises staying that the National Assembly must work together to unite the country and turn its fortunes to the best.
He called on the Senate President to look into cost of projects in the country to stop profligacy in execution of projects in the country.
‘South East will be ready to support anybody who will be ready to recognise the rights and needs of the people by way of negotiation” Umahi said.
