Disagreement Arises Over Ebonyi Economic Advisory Committee Appointment

The Chief Executive Officer of Immaculate Group of Companies, Mr. Emmanuel Eze, and the Ebonyi State Government are at odds following Eze’s rejection of his appointment to the Ebonyi State Economic Advisory Committee by Governor Francis Nwifuru.

The state government had formally notified Eze of his appointment through a letter dated August 29, 2025, signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Grace Umezuruike. However, Eze, who contested the 2023 House of Representatives election for the Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency, promptly declined the position, citing concerns over the timing of the committee’s constitution.

In his letter of refusal, Eze stated, “I sincerely appreciate the notification of my appointment to the Ebonyi State Economic Advisory Committee and the confidence it reflects. I firmly believe that such a strategic body, like an Economic Team, is most effective when inaugurated early in an administration’s tenure, allowing time for meaningful impact. After careful reflection, I respectfully decline the appointment. My current role offers a unique platform to contribute constructively to our state’s progress. I remain committed to our shared goal of building a prosperous and inclusive state.”

Responding to Eze’s decision, the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Mr. Leo Oketa, argued that the reasoning on timing was misplaced. He emphasized that economic reforms and strategic development are long-term endeavors, not constrained by political calendars.

Oketa added that the Governor’s timing was deliberate and strategic, coming after stabilizing key areas of governance and addressing immediate public needs. “This initiative is designed to launch a forward-looking economic agenda that will outlive this administration. It is both prudent and timely, not late,” he said.

He further stressed that no individual is indispensable, noting that Governor Nwifuru had assembled “a credible, competent, and diverse team of highly respected professionals with proven national and international track records.” He concluded that Eze’s refusal does not diminish the team’s strength or relevance, nor does it suggest that those who declined are superior to those who accepted the call to service.