By Christian Obileri
It was a pleasant moment and an atmosphere of camaraderie as members of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association, Abia State Branch elected a new Executive with Honourable Obinna Ekekwe as the Chairman.
The election was very significant because the Branch has not had an Executive Council for almost six years.
According to the former Acting Chairman of the branch, Barrister Maurice Eleri, the demise of Late Chief Okezie Agbugba was a big blow to the branch. He recalled that since he took over as the Vice Chairman, concerted efforts were made to bring members together and draw an action plan to move the Association forward hence the call for an election.
He, however, commended the outgone Exco members for their steadfastness and commitment while appreciating members of the branch for their cooperation during their stay in office.
In the keenly contested election, Honourable Obinna Ekekwe defeated Barrister Maurice Eleri with 14 votes against 9 votes while Pastor Ejikeme floored Mr Ichite with the same margin.
Other contestants like the Secretary, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, Welfare Officer and that of the Public Relations Officer were returned unopposed.
In an acceptance speech, the new Chairman of Abia State Branch, Honourable Obinna Ekekwe said they were humbled by the election which has marked turning point to the branch.
Honourable Ekekwe pledged to take the branch to a greater height and promised to fix the branch’s comatose vehicle for proper utilisation of the members.
He particularly commended the President Worldwide of UIAA, Professor Gabriel Saawua Nyityo for providing leadership at the National level and his untiring efforts to uplift UIAA to a greater pedestal.
The President Worldwide, Professor Gabriel Nyityo appreciated Abia State Branch for ensuring a peaceful and transparent election, describing it as the first of its kind in the annals of the branch.
Professor Nyityo charged the new Exco to swing into action immediately by uniting all members of the branch to work together as one indivisible Association.
The erudite Professor of History recalled the steady progress made by the branch especially before and after the death of Chief Okezie Agbugba, saying that a new dawn is now in place, for more enthusiastic and prosperous branch.