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The Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area in Enugu State, Dr Eric Odo, has defended his decision to appoint Senior Special Assistants on Agriculture with specific focuses on yam, garden egg, and pepper.
He stated that the move aims to boost food production, meet local demand, and explore export opportunities.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday at the council headquarters in Ogbede, Odo dismissed the wave of online criticism following the appointments as unfounded and politically motivated.
“These appointments are strategic,” Odo explained. “Igbo-Etiti has a comparative advantage in cultivating these crops, and we need individuals with the expertise to help farmers maximise their potential.
“This initiative is about enhancing productivity, improving market access, and increasing farmers’ income.”
Odo described the appointments as part of a broader vision to create a thriving local economy rooted in agriculture, emphasising their importance in supporting local farmers.
“Their appointments ensure that farmers receive the resources, support, and expertise they need,” he added.
“This initiative, which has been misunderstood by disgruntled individuals and opposition figures, underscores my determination to harness Igbo-Etiti’s agricultural potential for economic growth and sustainable development.”
The chairman highlighted the dual focus of the appointments: improving agricultural productivity and creating jobs within the community. He urged the public to disregard criticisms and instead focus on the long-term benefits of his administration’s vision for food security and rural development.
The appointees include Nwodo Ugonna as Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture (Garden Egg and Pepper) and Ezeugwu Ogbonna as Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture (Yam and Pepper).
According to their appointment letters, both individuals must report to the chairman’s office for briefing and deployment.
The letters, signed by Odo, have since gone viral, attracting mixed reactions online.
Nwodo’s letter read in part: “I am pleased to inform you that the executive chairman of Igbo-Etiti LGA has approved your appointment as Senior Special Assistant to the Local Government Chairman on Agriculture (Garden Egg and Pepper).”
Ezeugwu’s appointment letter echoed similar sentiments: “I am pleased to inform you that the executive chairman of Igbo-Etiti LGA has approved your appointment as Senior Special Assistant to the Local Government Chairman on Agriculture (Yam and Pepper).”
Odo reiterated his commitment to repositioning Igbo-Etiti for massive food production, calling on stakeholders to support his administration’s efforts to drive sustainable development through agriculture.
