Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has expressed surprise over rumours circulating about his health while he was on an official trip abroad.
There had been insinuations, especially on social media, that the governor had travelled to seek medical treatment, which stirred anxiety among residents concerned about his wellbeing.
Speaking in Abakaliki during the 65th Independence celebration and the 29th anniversary of Ebonyi’s creation, Nwifuru clarified that he was in good health throughout his foreign trip.
The governor noted that even his father became worried and reached out to confirm his condition. He stressed that he had never been ill and attributed the rumours to a misinterpretation of his calm disposition.
“We have given people lots of privileges but do not push a man to the wall. I was, however, encouraged with the fact that if you are not important, no one will talk about you,” he said.
He cautioned people, especially youths, against mistaking his meekness for weakness.
“This does not mean that we cannot bite, but I don’t want us to start biting. When you see a man that is calm, be careful of him. When I recall my rough road to where I am presently, I decide to take things easy,” he added.
Nwifuru also highlighted his administration’s achievements since 2023, reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling the objectives outlined in his people’s charter of needs.
“Ebonyi has a lot to celebrate at 29 years and I thank our former governors and leaders of the state for keeping the state together since 1996,” he said.
Former governors of the state, Senator Sam Egwu and Chief Martin Elechi, commended Nwifuru for steering the state’s affairs effectively.
The state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha, alongside other stakeholders, also congratulated the governor and pledged their support to his administration.
To mark the celebrations, Nwifuru inspected a guard of honour, presented staff of office to new traditional rulers, and engaged in other activities.
(NAN)