By Christiana Nnaemeka
The member Representing Imo East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi popularly addressed as Ebubedike, Mr Empowerment, has earned widespread commendation from stakeholders and residents of Uratta following the construction, equipping, and commissioning of a modern civic centre in the community.
The Uratta Civic Centre, designed to serve as a hub for meetings, community engagements, and social development activities, was officially commissioned on Sunday, January 4, 2025, at Orie Uratta in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State.
The commissioning ceremony attracted a large turnout of dignitaries, including leaders and members of the Uratta Development Union (UDU), traditional rulers, political leaders, women groups, and other stakeholders from across the Uratta clans.
Speaking at the event, the National President General of Uratta, Engr. Stanley Ukaga, expressed profound gratitude to Senator Onyewuchi, describing the project as a significant milestone for the community.
“We are here to honour our son for building this well-equipped edifice for us. This is not the first time he is doing something like this for Uratta. About 14 years ago, he executed similar projects, and since then, he has completed no fewer than three other projects for us and has promised to do more,” Ukaga said.
He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the senator and assured him of the unwavering support of the Uratta people.
Also speaking, an APC chieftain, Chief Sir Henry Njoku (Harritex Ikeoha), urged Senator Onyewuchi to take pride in the overwhelming show of appreciation by the people, noting that their massive turnout was a clear indication of love and approval for his performance.
He commended the community for recognising and appreciating good leadership, describing such gestures as encouragement for leaders to do even more.
The Chairman of Owerri North Local Government Area, Hon. Lucky Agbaronye, praised the senator for exemplifying the principle that charity begins at home. He highlighted several “signature projects” executed by Onyewuchi in the area, including a well-equipped Skill Acquisition Centre at the Owerri North Local Government Headquarters for residents of Owerri Zone, and a solar-powered borehole at Ulakwo Primary School.
According to Agbaronye, the senator has executed projects equitably across the nine local government areas in Owerri Zone, unlike some others who neglect their constituencies.
He also referenced the state’s Charter of Equity, noting that Owerri Zone is expected to produce the next governor in 2027, and urged the people to rally behind a credible and worthy son.
The Vice Chairman of the Imo State Elders Council, Prince Lemmy Akakem (Okpataozuoha), described Senator Onyewuchi as a “silent achiever,” noting that he has attracted and executed numerous projects across Owerri Zone.
“He is following in the footsteps of his father, who was a great parliamentarian. If we begin to talk about his qualities, we may not know where to stop,” Akakem stated.
One of the traditional rulers present, the Traditional Ruler of Obibi Uratta, His Royal Highness Eze Sir Boniface Ariri, offered prayers for God’s protection and prosperity upon the senator, declaring that no evil would befall him.
In his response, Senator Onyewuchi said the project was his way of appreciating the people for their support and trust.
“This civic centre is for you. It is a place where the people of Uratta can meet to discuss the way forward for the community and for Imo State as a whole.
We are gradually and strategically addressing the needs of our people,” he said.
He explained that the decision to build the civic centre followed extensive consultations with community stakeholders who expressed the need for a central meeting place to promote dialogue, planning, and development.
The senator also outlined several other projects he has executed across Owerri Zone, including the construction and renovation of school buildings, road projects, town halls, empowerment programmes, and the provision of electricity infrastructure.
He cited the construction of six classroom blocks at Uratta Secondary School, the renovation of the Customary Court in Owerri North, and the provision of electricity transformers at Amakohia and Akwakuma, among others.
He further disclosed that an ultramodern skill acquisition centre has been completed at the Uratta Local Government Headquarters and is awaiting commissioning.
According to him, the centre will provide vocational training and practical skills to youths and residents.
Residents expressed optimism that the centre would be properly utilised and maintained for the benefit of present and future generations.
The event also featured colourful cultural displays by women groups, who entertained guests with traditional dances and welcome songs.
Other dignitaries in attendance included the Owerri North LGA APC Chairman, Hon. Kelechi Azuike (Shegu); the Traditional Ruler of Ihitte-Oha, Eze Dr Emmanuel Okoro; and the National President of Mgboto-Uratta Worldwide, Chief Mrs Olivia Ijeoma (née Ofoegbu), among others.
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