EBONYI, HAVE WE ADDED OR REDUCED? A Deep Dive into Governance, Progress, and the People's Verdict

By Chukwu Abia | Grassrootsmirro 

June 29, 2025

In the heart of Nigeria’s southeast lies a land rich in resources, culture, and ambition — Ebonyi State. Known for its resilient people and emerging infrastructure, Ebonyi has transformed significantly over the years. But today, one question echoes across the streets of Abakaliki, Onueke, Afikpo, and Ishiagu: “Have we added or reduced?”

Are we progressing or retrogressing under the present leadership? Have we built on the foundation of previous administrations or are we watching the pillars of growth erode in silence?

This blog post examines the leadership system and developmental strides of the current government, particularly in comparison with the era of Governor David Nweze Umahi, whose tenure left indelible marks on the state. Let’s assess — through facts, policies, and people’s experience — if Ebonyi is moving forward, standing still, or drifting backward.

THE UMAHI ERA (2015–2023): THE CONCRETE REVOLUTION

When you mention development in Ebonyi State, David Umahi’s name often comes first. Love him or hate him, Umahi's administration reshaped Ebonyi’s skyline.

Key Achievements of Umahi’s Administration:

• Massive Infrastructure Projects: Dualized roads with street lights, over 20 flyovers, several concrete roads, and the ultra-modern King David University of Medical Sciences in Uburu.
• Ebonyi International Airport: Although controversial, the construction of the airport set Ebonyi on the path of regional and international connection.
• Ebonyi Shopping Mall and Ecumenical Centre: Projects aimed at transforming Abakaliki into a commercial and spiritual hub.
• Educational Reforms: Revamped schools, scholarships, and model learning centers.
• Agricultural Boost: Promotion of rice production with the Abakaliki Rice Mill and cooperative farming schemes.
• Security and Urban Beautification: A strengthened Ebubeagu outfit and modern traffic systems.

Governor Umahi positioned Ebonyi as a construction zone, even if critics raised concerns over debt profiles and alleged over-centralization of contracts.

THE CURRENT GOVERNMENT: SILENT BUT SLOW?

As power transitioned in 2023, hopes were high. A new administration came with promises of consolidation and continuity. However, more than a year later, the people are asking — where is the fire? Where is the boldness?

Public Observations on the Current Leadership:

• Quiet Governance: Unlike Umahi’s loud and visible developmental projects, the current governor’s style is notably subtle — some say too quiet to be felt.
• Lack of Signature Projects: As of now, there are no widely celebrated new landmarks or monumental projects that rival the previous regime’s.
• Infrastructural Maintenance vs Expansion: While the government claims to maintain past projects, there's little to no expansion or initiation of bold new ones.
• Reduced Visibility in National Conversations: Under Umahi, Ebonyi’s name often made national headlines for construction feats. Today, the state is relatively absent from national development discussions.
• Political Repositioning: The government seems more focused on managing political tensions and internal party dynamics than delivering urgent development needs.

LEADERSHIP STYLES: THE BULLDOZER VS THE DIPLOMAT

Comparing both regimes reveals distinct leadership styles:

Metric/Area	Umahi Era	Current Administration
Leadership Style	Aggressive, hands-on, commanding	Quiet, diplomatic, managerial
Public Engagement	Frequent  broadcasts & announcements	Less public visibility
Signature Projects	Flyovers, university, airport	Minimal (yet to be identified)
Speed of Execution	Fast and simultaneous	Slow and cautious
State Branding	Visible national presence	Diminished influence
Youth Empowerment	Empowerment schemes and trainings	Less emphasis seen so far

HAVE WE ADDED OR REDUCED? THE PEOPLE SPEAK

Across social media platforms, community halls, and motor parks, ordinary Ebonyians are asking:

• "Where is the continuity we were promised?"
• "What new project can we proudly show the world?"
• "Why does it feel like the state is on autopilot?"

A growing number of citizens believe we have slowed down — if not regressed — in momentum. The infrastructure laid down by the past administration is not being expanded, and the current administration is yet to unveil a bold vision of its own.

That said, others argue that governance should not be judged solely by physical projects, but by sustainable policies, economic reforms, and people-centered programs. Unfortunately, those too seem largely under-communicated or invisible.

WHAT EBONYI NEEDS NOW: A CALL TO ACTION

If Ebonyi must truly rise:

1. The current administration must find its voice and legacy. Silence does not win trust; visibility and accountability do.
2. New projects must emerge, not just maintenance of the old.
3. Youth engagement must be prioritized, especially in entrepreneurship, technology, and vocational training.
4. Transparency and communication must improve to carry the people along.
5. Local government autonomy and development should be reignited. Development shouldn’t only be seen in the state capital.

THE JURY IS OUT

So, have we added or reduced?

If measured in visibility, pace, and new development — we have reduced.
If measured in style, sustainability, and diplomacy — the verdict is still out.

But Ebonyians are not looking for silence; they are looking for action, boldness, and visible progress. The legacy of the Umahi administration is still towering over the state’s political skyline, and unless the current government steps up, history may not judge it kindly.

Dear Ebonyi, we believe in your greatness. But we must ask again:

Have we added, or have we reduced?

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