The Chairman-elect of Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, Engr. Mike Ogbuekwe, has dedicated his victory in the September 26 local government election to the people of the council, describing the mandate as a collective responsibility to move Nkanu East forward.

Ogbuekwe, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was declared winner of the Nkanu East chairmanship election following weeks of campaign activities, consultations and community engagements across the local government.

In a separate message of appreciation issued after the election, the Mmiri-Oma Campaign Organisation, which coordinated Ogbuekwe’s campaign, thanked the people of Nkanu East for what it described as their overwhelming support, trust and confidence throughout the electioneering period.

The campaign organisation said the people’s reception of the campaign train across the communities was one of the defining features of the election, recalling the ward-to-ward engagements with traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, women and other stakeholders.

It particularly recalled campaign visits to communities including Nara, Ugbakwa, Owo, Nomeh, Mburubu and Nkerefi, where residents turned out to receive the campaign team despite challenging weather conditions.

In a statement jointly signed by its Director-General, Prince Emeka Nwatu, and spokesperson, Barr. Joshua Ejeh, the organisation said the grassroots support demonstrated confidence in Ogbuekwe and the APC.

“We are deeply grateful to the people of Nkanu East. You opened your communities to us, listened to our message, travelled with us, stood with us and ultimately entrusted us with your mandate,” the organisation said.

It said the mandate now placed a responsibility on Ogbuekwe and his team to repay the confidence of the electorate through service, accountability and meaningful development.

“The campaign has ended, but the responsibility to build Nkanu East has only started,” the organisation added.

Ogbuekwe, in his message, also acknowledged the contributions of men, women, youths, community leaders and families who supported his political journey, describing their backing as instrumental to his emergence.

“This mandate belongs to all of us. Together, we move forward and build a better Nkanu East,” he said.

The chairman-elect expressed appreciation to Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his confidence, leadership and support throughout the political journey.

He also thanked the leadership of the APC in Enugu State for its support during the electoral process.

Ogbuekwe said the confidence reposed in him by the electorate would serve as motivation as he prepares to assume office, stressing the need for unity, cooperation and collective commitment to the development of Nkanu East.

The Mmiri-Oma Campaign Organisation similarly called on residents, irrespective of political affiliation, to join hands with the incoming administration in building a stronger and more united council.

It thanked traditional rulers, community leaders, women, youths, professionals, political stakeholders and supporters who contributed to the campaign, while also appreciating Governor Mbah, the APC leadership and other individuals and groups who worked towards the party’s victory.

The organisation said Ogbuekwe’s emergence should be seen not merely as the conclusion of a political contest but as an opportunity for the people of Nkanu East to forge a common front for the development of the council.

“The people have spoken. The mandate has been given. This shows continued trust and hope in the APC. Now is the time to unite, build and deliver. Together, we move Nkanu East forward,” it said.