By CHUKWUEMEKA OPARA

The Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi says he will never abandon his successor, Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi and ensure that he completes eight years in office.

Umahi made the pledge on Saturday at his hometown Uburu, Ohaoazara Local Government Area of Ebonyi when Nwifuru?s clan members, Izzi National Youths Forum, paid him Christmas homage.

The former governor, while describing the visit as ?surprising?, maintained that Nwifuru would complete his two terms in office as he and other former governors of the state did.

?God forbid that Izzi people stand against me tomorrow but my covenant with God and Nwifuru is to complete uninterrupted eight years in office.

?Nothing will stop this as I fought principalities and powers alone and won to make him governor.

?Do you think I cannot do it presently that I have someone by my side?? he queried.

He reiterated his earlier stance that the Izzi clan remained the state?s present best governance option and had no regret over it

?Nwifuru is humble and till the end of eight years, I am not leaving him,? he said.

Umahi commended the leadership of the group for its dexterity noting that he was awed by the number of members on the delegation.

?It is gratifying that you came to celebrate with me when you should have been at home celebrating with your son, the governor,? he said.

The National President of Izzi National Youths Forum, Mr Andrew Elom, said the visit was to thank Umahi for fulfilling his promise of handing over the state?s governorship seat to an Izzi indigene.

Elom pleaded with Umahi not to abandon his successor and son, Nwifuru but always guide him to remain on the right path.

?This is a project you initiated and commenced and the governor needs all the encouragement you can give him,? he said.

He described Umahi as a performing minister, noting that Nigeria is currently witnessing and enjoying replication of his wondrous works in Ebonyi. (NAN)

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