Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi says there will be a crisis in the state “when” he unilaterally chooses his successor in 2023.

Mr Umahi stated this on Sunday at Christ Embassy Church, Abakaliki, during a special thanksgiving service to mark his 58th birthday.

The governor expressed confidence that anytime he called leaders in the state to choose his successor, there would not be any fight.

Mr Umahi stated, “There will, however, be (a) fight when I singlehandedly choose the person who will succeed me.

“Anyone who wants to manipulate me should first manipulate God because He is the one that is protecting me.”

According to him, all genuine successes come from God, adding that anyone seeking to succeed him must depend on God.

“When you put all your faith in God and help the needy, you will have less time for distractions.

“Everything happening in the state in terms of infrastructural development, among others, is not through man’s power but that of God,” the governor added.

Mr Umahi thanked God for allowing him to witness his 58th birthday and commended those who honoured him during the celebration.

“I testify that prayers and the wonderful support from my family, religious leaders, and well-wishers, among others, have made me achieve success in life.

“We are committed to completing all ongoing projects in the state and massively empowering our people before leaving office,” the governor added.

Eunice Oyeyemi, who presided over the church service, urged people to impact others’ lives for a better society positively.

“People should appropriately utilise the opportunities to live fulfilled lives on earth,” she said.

The dignitaries attended the service, with prayers offered for Mr Umahi, his family, the state, and the country.

(NAN)