Former governor of Ebonyi, David Umahi, says he will never abandon his successor, Francis Nwifuru, promising to ensure the governor completes eight years in office.

Mr Umahi, also the Minister of Works, made the pledge on Saturday at his hometown, Uburu, Ohaoazara Local Government Area of Ebonyi, when Mr Nwifuru’s clan members, Izzi National Youths Forum, paid him Christmas homage.

While describing the visit as “surprising, ” the former governor maintained that Mr Nwifuru would complete his two terms in office as he and other former governors of the state did.

“God forbid that Izzi people stand against me tomorrow but my covenant with God and Nwifuru is to complete uninterrupted eight years in office.

“Nothing will stop this as I fought principalities and powers alone and won to make him governor. Do you think I cannot do it presently that I have someone by my side?” he queried.

He reiterated his earlier stance that the Izzi clan remained the state’s best governance option and had no regret.

“Nwifuru is humble and till the end of eight years, I am not leaving him,” he said.

Mr Umahi commended the group’s leadership for its dexterity, noting that he was awed by the number of members on the delegation.

“It is gratifying that you came to celebrate with me when you should have been at home celebrating with your son, the governor,” he said.

The national president of the Izzi National Youths Forum, Andrew Elom, said the visit was to thank Mr Umahi for fulfilling his promise to hand over the state’s governorship seat to an Izzi indigene.

Mr Elom pleaded with Mr Umahi not to abandon his successor and son, Mr Nwifuru, but always guide him to remain on the right path.

(NAN)