Enugu chairman appoints SA on garden egg, yam, and pepper

In an unusual development in local governance, the Chairman of Igbo Etiti Local Government Area in Enugu State, Eric Odo, has made headlines by appointing two Senior Special Assistants with distinct agricultural portfolios.

According to a statement released on Wednesday, Ezeugwu Frederick Ogbonna has been appointed as Senior Special Assistant on Yam and Pepper, while Nwodo Everestus Ugonna has been named Senior Special Assistant on Garden Egg and Pepper.

The appointments, which took effect on November 1, have raised eyebrows and sparked discussions among residents and beyond. The appointees have been instructed to report to the office of the Executive Chairman in Ogbede for a formal briefing and their subsequent assignments.

While some observers have questioned the necessity of such roles, the Chairman’s office explained that the appointments are intended to enhance the strategic development and management of agricultural resources within the LGA. The agricultural sector is vital to the economy of Igbo Etiti, and these new roles are expected to boost productivity and promote food security.

In a related development, the Senate Minority Whip praised Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for the recent flag-off of multiple road projects in the state.

“I am pleased to inform you that the executive chairman Igbo Etiti LGA has approved your appointment as senior special assistant to the local government chairman on agriculture (yam and pepper),” Ezeugwu’s letter reads.

“You should report to the executive chairman Igbo Etiti LGA, Ogbede, for briefing and deployment.

“It is pertinent to note that this is not a career civil service appointment but a temporary appointment which you hold at the pleasure of the executive chairman of Igbo Etiti LGA.”

While Ugonna’s appointment letter partly read: “I am pleased to inform you that the executive chairman Igbo Etiti LGA has approved your appointment as senior special assistant to the Local Government chairman on agriculture (garden egg & pepper).”