HURIWA cautions against defamation of former Enugu governor Ugwuanyi

Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the former governor of Enugu, is the target of a smear campaign being planned by some political actors, according to the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).

HURIWA’s national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, claimed at a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja that the organisation has refined its use of invented scandals and false stories to damage the reputation of the former governor.

HURIWA issued a warning against such behaviour and said that political opponents had planned such actions because of concern that Ugwuanyi might be appointed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

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“In recent times, we have received credible information and evidence pointing to the existence of powerful political forces that are exerting undue pressure on civil society organisations, the media, and other actors in Abuja and Lagos, with the intention of fabricating false scandals and launching a strategic media campaign to tarnish the reputation of Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi,” the press conference’s text reads.

These groups want to damage his reputation and are driven by nefarious goals. To maintain openness and uphold the values of justice and fairness, it is essential that we make this issue public.

The people should be reminded of some of the outstanding accomplishments made by Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi while serving as the governor of Enugu State, first and foremost. His dedication to improving the state’s governance, infrastructure, healthcare, and education has had a long-lasting positive effect on the lives of the people. The previous governor’s administration was characterised by openness, inclusivity, and a strong commitment to the welfare of the populace.

“Governor Ugwuanyi made important commitments to the residents of Enugu State, and he largely kept them. For instance, he pledged to inaugurate Nsukka, the town known for housing the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). True to his pledge, he started a number of development initiatives for the college town. Examples include the construction of the Opi-Nsukka Road and the secretariat annexe at Edeoballa to house state employees who work in the Enugu North senatorial zone.

“To promote sports in the area, Governor Ugwuanyi also erected a wonderful sports stadium at Nsukka. He also demonstrated his dedication to education and healthcare by founding a brand-new University of Medical and Applied Sciences in Igboano, Enugu North Senatorial Zone.

“Governor Ugwuanyi’s development initiatives covered the two senatorial districts of Enugu East and Enugu West in addition to Nsukka. Notably, he enlarged and revitalised the long-neglected Ngwo-9th Mile Road, also known as Miliken Hill. Additionally, he relocated the Building Material/Electrical Parts Market next to Kenyatta, which helped to ease traffic and enhance the quality of life for vendors and travellers.

The road from Emene to Nike Lake Resort Hotel was dualized by Governor Ugwuanyi, reducing traffic congestion and boosting connectivity.

Nevertheless, some people continue to dispute the depth of Governor Ugwuanyi’s services to the state despite these noteworthy accomplishments. It’s important to remember that no government can completely satisfy all of the varied wants and expectations of its people. But there is no disputing his administration’s successes.

“Governor Ugwuanyi was also pro-worker, making sure that government servants received their wages and other benefits on time. The minimum wage, teacher advancements, and extension of service years were all approved by his government, to the praise of organised labour. Even housing was provided for government employees in Elim Estate by him.

“Various voices acknowledged these accomplishments. Chief Dubem Onyia, a former junior minister of foreign affairs, as well as opposition party members like Dr. Ben Nwoye pointed out that the governor’s media assistants might have done more to highlight his accomplishments.

Therefore, these nefarious schemes and politically motivated accusations against him are not only untrue but also a deliberate attempt by some people to damage his reputation. We think that these people are acting in their own self-interest and out of concern that President Tinubu would consider Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for an important political job. Their behaviour is motivated by partisan politics and a desire to discredit a public official who has gained the respect and trust of the residents of Enugu State.

“HURIWA stands for the defence of justice, the rule of law, and human rights. We support openness and accountability, and we urge all parties involved—including the media, civil society groups, and the general public—to assess the material being spread by these people and their motivations.

“We want to emphasise that every Nigerian has a right to an accurate and impartial evaluation of their moral character and conduct, and that prominent people like Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi shouldn’t be subjected to unjustified character assassination.

“As a last recommendation, we implore the general people to use caution and critical thinking when confronted with sensational and unfounded allegations against prominent individuals. We also urge those waging this destructive campaign to reevaluate their course of action and put more effort into fostering civil discourse and debate as opposed to attempting to harm the name of someone who has devoted his life to public service.

“HURIWA is still dedicated to upholding and advancing justice and human rights in Nigeria. We will keep a careful eye on this issue and keep pushing for accountability, fairness, and transparency in every facet of our society.