By Osegbue Patricia
The immediate past Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area(LGA), Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, on Oct. 5, formally handed over the administration of the council to the newly sworn in Mayor, Hon. Emelie Albert Ibekwe.
The brief ceremony, held at the LGA headquarters, was attended by the Head of Local Government Service, heads of departments, members of staff and other stakeholders.
Ibekwe, alongside his deputy, Hon. Ijeoma Ezeagwa, had been sworn into office by the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, on Oct. 3.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nwora described the handover as a significant moment in his public service journey, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of Onitsha North and work with the LGAl’s staff, stakeholders and residents.
Nwora noted that public office was a responsibility entrusted to individuals for a period, stressing that while leadership changes, the institution and its responsibility to the people remain.
He formally handed over the affairs of the LGA to Ibekwe and introduced the new mayor to members of staff, highlighting the structures and responsibilities through which the LGA operates.
The former mayor appreciated the staff, stakeholders and colleagues for their support throughout his tenure, urging the people of Onitsha North to extend the same cooperation to the new administration.
He emphasised that unity and collective effort were essential to the continued progress of the council, while wishing Ibekwe wisdom, strength and a successful tenure.
As he departed the LGA headquarters, Nwora reflected on his time in office, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and for the people and experiences that shaped his tenure.
“One chapter has closed. Another has begun. May God continue to bless Onitsha North and everyone who calls it home,” he said.
The outgoing mayor was thereafter accompanied to his vehicle by Ibekwe and members of his team, marking the formal conclusion of Nwora’s tenure.
Osegbue Patricia is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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