The Hausa community in Ebonyi State at the weekend rolled out the drums celebrating the appointment of two Hausa men as Technical Assistants on Herdsmen Affairs to Governor David Umahi.

Three other members of the Hausa community were also appointed into the state administration.

The appointees are Alhaji Salisu Mohammed and Alhaji Haladu Ismail, both Technical Assistants to the Governor on Herdsmen; and Alhaji Sule Mohammed, Technical Assistant on Sports. Others are: Haiya Asmau Gambo and Lawal Hamajoda, both Liaison Officers.

Ama Hausa quarters, the residential area of Hausa indigenes in Abakaliki, was agog with celebration over the appointments.

Spokesperson of the appointees, Sule Mohammed explained that the Hausa community had not enjoyed such gestures since their sojourn in the state.

He implored Governors to emulate such embrace, noting that the Ebonyi State government demonstrated true patriotism and belief in unity.

“With the projects and programmes executed by Governor Umahi, no calculative person will stand against his second term. The projects and programmes on ground are eloquent testimonies. And for us the Hausa community, we have unanimously endorsed him ahead of the flag-off of campaigns.

“Just imagine, in December, the Christmas, Governor Umahi gave us the Hausa people 200 bags of rice. He gave us N200,000. I signed and collected the money from the Director of Protocol. In fact we thank the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon.Charles Akpu-Enika, who has coordinated our relationship with the Abakaliki Urban Forum. He has really ensured our cordial relationship with the residents, and, of course, the Ebonyi State government.

“For the first time, we have witnessed this kind of benevolence. We feel at home in Ebonyi State. I implore Northern Governors to follow this kind of attitude. I am from Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State but I tell you, I feel like I am at home here. Governor Umahi has demonstrated his faith in the unity of Nigeria. No wonder he is the Chairman of the South-East Governors' Forum.”

Mohammed explained that the appointment of Hausa men as Technical Assistants on Herdsmen would help in the management of the relationship and activities of the herdsmen would more easily dialogue with them.

“As we speak, one of the TAs left to attend to an issue that was reported to him about activities of the herdsmen. I tell you, you would not hear of clashes with herdsmen in Ebonyi State. Indeed, Governor Umahi has great wisdom.”

In his own remarks, Akpu-Enika explained that the Hausa community actually had reasons to be thankful. But noted that the current appointments were just one of such under the incumbent administration.

“We equally have Yoruba men and women appointed into this current administration. Indeed, I would suggest that Governor Umahi be encouraged by the President of this country. His governance, administration prowls and commitment deserve national award,” he stated.

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