Why we still pay homage to Nwobodo 43 years after - Anambra Indigenes in Enugu

The Anambra State Indigenes Living in Enugu, have noted that they still place high regard on the former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, 43 years after his administration, because of the pragmatic governance Nwobodo ran at that time.

The group maintained that Nwobodo as Governor of areas that are today in three states, gave every part of the old state equal attention, amenities and nondiscriminatory attitude.

The group therefore stated that for that commendable trait in governance, they must continue cordial relationship with Nwobodo who they described as a "living legend."

The group made the pledge when they visited Nwobodo in his ancestral home where he recently relocated to in Amechi-Uno, Enugu South local government area.

President of Anambra Indigenes Living in Enugu, Chief E.U Adimora, who led the delegation in company of other members, said that they came because they cannot forget what Nwobodo did for the old Anambra state.

"We are thanking God for the lives we still live. It's a long time relationship when His Excellency, Jim Nwobodo was Governor of Anambra State, we appreciate the deep mercy he had for Ndigbo, Ndi Anambra, which you cannot equate with other previous Governors.

"We, the Anambra People living in Enugu, still maintain the relationship with him. Wherever he is going, wherever he is, we always come to appreciate him and we show him that the love he had for us at that time still radiates.

"So, when we heard that he has relocated to this his ancestral home, we decided to pay him visit and join him in the house warming.

"As Governor, he did many things for Ndi Anambra, at that time he never discriminated between Enugu, Anambra or Ebonyi people. He didn't show percuilar interest to identify himself as an Enugu man. 

"That was the kind of relationship we had and we cannot withdraw that relationship because he is no more in office. So long as he is still alive, we will continue with the relationship," Adimora said.

Responding, Nwobodo commended their loyalty and friendship, noting that he has many friends in Anambra State who are dear to him.

Nwobodo also appreciated the good behaviours of the Anambra People living in Enugu, their good conducts and contributions in the development of their area of residence.

"I have many friends in Anambra, we've been so close. Your visit is a show of love. I was not just a governor and we were all close," Nwobodo stated, while also praying for them.

One of the visitors and Deputy National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Omeife Omeife recalled with nostalgia the days of Nwobodo as Governor and the social and infrastructural strides he made in the old Anambra State.

Chairman of Enugu South local government council, Hon. Calab Ani, noted that the council does not joke with non indigenes in the council area, particularly the Anambra state Indigenes that he said are partners with the council.