APPOINTMENT OF BARR. ERIC KELECHI IGWE ,PhD AS RENEWED HOPE COORDINATOR, EBONYI STATE: A SQUARE PEG IN A SQUARE HOLE
By Ekoyo Godwin Anuma,
Abakaliki
“In the affairs of men and nations, destiny often meets preparation at the point of service; and when preparation is rooted in character, leadership becomes a blessing to the people.”
Barr. (Chief) Eric Kelechi Igwe, PhD, is a name that resonates strongly in the political landscape of Ebonyi State and beyond—a man whose public life has been defined by service, loyalty, discipline, and grassroots connection. His journey in governance and politics reflects the story of a leader carefully molded by experience and guided by a philosophy of people-oriented development.
In a time when leadership is constantly scrutinized and tested, Barr. Igwe has steadily built a reputation as a dependable ally, a bridge-builder, and a mobilizer of people and ideas. Before his historic election as the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, where he faithfully served alongside the former Governor of Ebonyi State and current Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, from 2015 to 2023, Barr. Igwe had already etched his name in public service through various responsibilities he handled with diligence and measurable success.
His tenure as Deputy Governor was not merely ceremonial; it was marked by active participation in governance, conflict resolution, grassroots consultation, and policy support that helped stabilize and strengthen the machinery of government. He is widely known for his impeccable character, admirable pedigree, and wealth of experience in both legal and political spheres. His carriage reflects maturity and discipline, while his principles are deeply anchored on humility, peace, and the upliftment of the ordinary citizen. Many who have worked closely with him attest that his leadership style is inclusive, calm, and persuasive rather than confrontational—qualities that are increasingly rare but highly needed in modern politics.
Barr. Eric Kelechi Igwe belongs to that class of leaders whose strength lies not in noise-making but in strategic impact. His politics is not built on division, but on consensus and coalition-building. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to connect with people across political, social, and cultural lines, making him a unifying figure in Ebonyi’s political space. His grassroots appeal is not manufactured; it is the product of years of direct engagement with communities, stakeholders, and local leaders.
It is therefore not surprising that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, recognized his capacity, loyalty, and administrative competence by appointing him as a Board Member of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). Such an appointment is not given lightly—it is a reflection of trust, credibility, and proven ability. At the NPA, Barr. Igwe has joined other board members in contributing strategic direction and oversight aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening institutional frameworks, and aligning port operations with the broader economic vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
As the popular saying goes, the reward for hard work is more responsibility. In what many observers describe as a strategic and well-calculated decision, Barr. Eric Kelechi Igwe was further appointed as the Ebonyi State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Agenda. This role places him at the forefront of political mobilization, public enlightenment, and grassroots engagement in support of the Tinubu administration.
This appointment is deeply symbolic and politically significant. It signals confidence in his mobilization strength and acknowledges his political structure across Ebonyi State. As Coordinator, he is tasked with harmonizing party faithful, energizing the grassroots, countering misinformation, and ensuring that the message of Renewed Hope translates into visible political support at the polls. In a state like Ebonyi, where political loyalty and grassroots connection are critical, choosing a tested mobilizer like Barr. Igwe is widely seen as a masterstroke.
Expectedly, his emergence has been greeted with widespread celebration among supporters, stakeholders, and party loyalists. The consensus among many is that the position found the right man at the right time. His sagacity, accessibility, and relationship with the people give him a unique advantage in driving the Renewed Hope message to the hinterlands, urban centers, and political blocs across the state.
Beyond mobilization, Barr. Igwe is also positioned to serve as a chief communicator of the achievements of the Tinubu administration. Political success today is not only about policies but about effectively communicating impact. His calm yet persuasive style makes him well suited to enlightening the people of Ebonyi State on federal projects, reforms, and interventions that directly or indirectly benefit them.
Notably, the Tinubu administration has demonstrated tangible commitment to Ebonyi State through several infrastructural projects facilitated by the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi. These include the 135/Nkalagu Boundary dualization, the Ndibe Beach Bridge linking Cross River and Cameroon, Akpoha Bridge, the Afikpo–Abaomege dual carriageway, Ishinkwo–Okposhi Road, Uburu–Nkerefi Road, segments of the Coastal Highway, and the establishment of an Army Depot in Edda, among others. These projects are not mere promises; they are legacy-driven interventions capable of transforming economic activities, improving connectivity, and boosting regional development.
In the unfolding political dynamics ahead of future elections, figures like Barr. Eric Kelechi Igwe plays a crucial role.
They serve as the link between federal vision and local acceptance. They translate policy into political capital and turn goodwill into electoral strength. His track record suggests that he understands both the art and science of political mobilization.
Indeed, describing him as a square peg in a square hole is not an exaggeration but a fair assessment. His experience aligns with the demands of the moment. His loyalty aligns with the expectations of leadership. His grassroots connection aligns with the realities of Nigerian politics. And his temperament aligns with the need for stability and maturity in political coordination.
As Ebonyi State navigates the evolving political terrain, Barr. Eric Kelechi Igwe, PhD, stands as one of the pillars upon which the Renewed Hope structure in the state may firmly rest. His story continues to reflect a blend of preparation, opportunity, and service—a reminder that in politics, as in life, those who consistently serve the people often earn the trust to lead them.
