By Isaac Mission
As political activities ahead of the 2027 Enugu State governorship election gather momentum, the Convener of Ihe Abia, Ichie Emeka Okpara, has thrown his weight behind Sir Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa, describing him as an experienced administrator capable of providing effective leadership for the state.
Okpara said Ohaa's long career in both the state and federal public service gives him an advantage over other aspirants seeking to occupy the Lion Building in 2027.
According to him, Ohaa has spent decades building the administrative experience and institutional knowledge required to address the challenges confronting Enugu State.
He recalled that he had spoken positively about Ohaa as far back as 2022, when the former Permanent Secretary had not indicated an interest in contesting the governorship.
Okpara described Ohaa as a leader whose career has been characterised by discipline, integrity, perseverance and commitment to public service.
Ohaa previously served as Accountant-General of Enugu State before rising to the position of Permanent Secretary at the federal level. He held responsibilities in several important areas, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Federal Capital Territory and the Federal Ministry of Power.
He retired from federal service in 2021.
Experience across key sectors
Okpara argued that Ohaa's exposure to different areas of government makes him particularly suited to managing the complex responsibilities of a state governor.
He pointed specifically to Ohaa's experience in youth and sports administration, saying the sector could play a much bigger role in Enugu's economic development.
He maintained that greater investment in sports, entertainment, information and communications technology, and vocational training could create employment opportunities and provide young people with productive alternatives.
Okpara also advocated the revival and commercial repositioning of Rangers International Football Club, describing the club as an important part of Enugu's sporting heritage.
He said a properly managed Rangers could generate employment, attract investment, promote tourism, nurture young football talent and contribute to the state's internally generated revenue.
Lessons from Abuja
The Ihe Abia convener also highlighted Ohaa's experience in the administration of the Federal Capital Territory, particularly his exposure to urban planning, infrastructure and policy implementation.
He argued that the experience could be useful in developing a comprehensive plan for Enugu's future growth.
According to him, Enugu's unique landscape and history provide an opportunity to create a modern urban environment that can attract businesses, visitors and investment.
He suggested that the state should begin looking beyond its centenary celebrations and develop a fresh vision for the next phase of its development.
Okpara further said Ohaa's experience with the implementation of the Federal Character principle had exposed him to issues of fairness, inclusion and balanced representation.
He argued that these qualities would be valuable in managing Enugu's political and administrative affairs, particularly amid continuing conversations about equitable representation among the state's senatorial zones.
Power and economic development
Ohaa's experience at the Federal Ministry of Power was also identified by Okpara as an important qualification.
He said the former Permanent Secretary's knowledge of the power sector could prove useful as Enugu explores ways to improve its economic environment, attract investment and support small and medium-sized businesses.
Beyond his government career, Okpara pointed to Ohaa's involvement in community initiatives, including youth empowerment programmes, educational scholarships, assistance to disadvantaged families and the Shelter Gives Dignity initiative.
He also noted Ohaa's recognition by the Methodist Church of Nigeria as a Knight of John Wesley.
2027 race
On the wider political contest, Okpara acknowledged that several aspirants have the constitutional right to seek the governorship and campaign for public support.
He, however, said voters should carefully examine the experience, character, competence, ideas and records of all the contenders before making their choice.
He also acknowledged the continuing importance of zoning in Enugu's political calculations, noting that the informal rotation of the governorship among the state's three senatorial zones remains a major subject of political discussion.
While supporters of zoning believe it promotes inclusion and prevents marginalisation, Okpara said those advocating a different approach are also entitled to present their arguments.
Ultimately, he maintained that the electorate should focus on the candidate's ability to provide effective, fair and competent governance for the people of Enugu State.
