Former Abia State governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, has opened up on the toughest moments of his administration, revealing that the Nigerian Army’s Operation Python Dance, the #EndSARS protests and the COVID-19 pandemic severely tested his leadership.
Ikpeazu spoke on Friday at his Umuobiakwa, Obingwa country home while hosting the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who paid him a New Year homage.
Recalling the turbulent years, the former governor praised Kalu for standing firmly with him when his government faced multiple crises, describing the Deputy Speaker as a loyal ally through difficult times.
“Talking about our leader, the Deputy Speaker, he has been my brother and my ally, all through thick and thin.
“We had too many rough patches during my time (as governor), we experienced Operation Python Dance, we experienced COVID-19, we experienced #EndSARS, and all those rough patches, but through it all he stood by me without looking at anything in return.
“He was always there and for that I owe him a duty to support and encourage him,” Ikpeazu said.
He urged Kalu to remain humble and focused on doing the right thing, stressing that his rise in national politics was divinely orchestrated for a historic mission.
“So, for those of us who have seen, we will continue to encourage you because God has raised you at a time like this, for the liberation of not only Abia State but also for the entire Igbo nation that seems to be in a quandary,” Ikpeazu said.
Earlier, Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, congratulated Ikpeazu on his appointment as an ambassador, noting that the visit was a symbolic New Year gesture.
