In a landmark event for the Emevor community, Chief Emmanuel Erezih has been elected as the President General of the Emevor Progress Union (EPU), marking a new chapter in the leadership of one of Isoko land’s most revered community organizations. The election, which took place on Saturday at the Civic Centre in Emevor, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, saw Erezih, a prominent figure serving as Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Beautification, secure a resounding victory. His election has sparked optimism among community members who view his leadership as pivotal to advancing the developmental aspirations of Emevor.
The election was a well-organized and transparent process, reflecting the democratic will of the Emevor people. The electoral committee, tasked with overseeing the process, ensured that the exercise was conducted peacefully, with no reported incidents of irregularities. This commitment to fairness has been widely praised, as Amend as it underscores the community’s trust in the electoral process. The outcome of the election is seen as a true representation of the collective desire of the Emevor people to move their community forward under capable leadership.
Chief Erezih will not lead alone; he is joined by a dynamic team of elected officials forming a 10-man Central Executive Council. This council is expected to work collaboratively to drive the developmental agenda of the Emevor community, focusing on unity, progress, and the welfare of its people. The newly elected officers include Rev. Henry Khama as Vice President General, Mr. Harry Omoroh Oke as Secretary General, Engr. Odhodu Emmanuel as Assistant Secretary, Mr. Joseph Itoje as Financial Secretary, Mrs. Esther Utomakili as Assistant Financial Secretary, Mr. Paul Oge Ekpeto as Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ekwerigbe Isaiah as Auditor, Mr. Odiete Raphael as Provost 1, and Pastor Otobo Abisi as Provost 2. Together, this team brings a diverse range of skills and experiences, poised to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities facing the Emevor community.
On Tuesday, the newly elected executive members were formally presented with certificates of return, a significant moment that affirmed their mandate to lead. The presentation was conducted by the Delta State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Pat Ajudua, who was accompanied by senior officials from the ministry. This ceremony was a formal acknowledgment of the trust placed in the new leadership by the Emevor people. Dr. Ajudua, in her remarks, congratulated the elected officials and urged them to serve with dedication and integrity, emphasizing the importance of their roles in fostering unity and driving sustainable development. Her presence, alongside other senior officials, added a layer of official recognition to the process, further solidifying the legitimacy of the new leadership.
The Emevor Progress Union, established as one of the oldest and most influential community unions in Isoko land, has a storied history of championing the interests of the Emevor people. For decades, the union has been a cornerstone of community development, promoting unity, advocating for infrastructural improvements, and ensuring the welfare of Emevor indians both within the community and in the diaspora. The EPU has been instrumental in organizing community initiatives, fostering cultural pride, and addressing socio-economic challenges. With the election of Chief Erezih and his team, the union is poised to build on this legacy, tackling modern challenges with innovative solutions while preserving the rich traditions of the Emevor people.
The swearing-in ceremony for the new executive is scheduled for December, during the community’s Annual General Conference. This event is expected to be a significant occasion, drawing Emevor indians from far and wide to witness the formal assumption of office by the new leadership. The Annual General Conference is a cherished tradition, serving as a platform for reflection, celebration, and planning for the future. It is during this gathering that Chief Erezih and his team will officially take up their roles, outlining their vision for the community and setting the tone for their tenure. The conference will also provide an opportunity for community members to engage directly with their leaders, fostering a sense of collective ownership in the development process.
Chief Emmanuel Erezih’s election comes at a critical juncture for the Emevor community, which, like many others in Delta State, faces challenges such as infrastructural deficits, youth unemployment, and the need for enhanced social services. As Executive Assistant to the Governor on Beautification, Erezih brings a wealth of experience in public administration and community engagement. His role in state governance has equipped him with the skills to navigate bureaucratic processes and advocate for resources to support Emevor’s growth. Community members are optimistic that his leadership will attract development projects, improve access to education and healthcare, and promote economic opportunities for the youth.
The composition of the Central Executive Council reflects a deliberate effort to balance experience, expertise, and representation. Rev. Henry Khama, as Vice President General, brings a moral and spiritual perspective, ensuring that the union’s activities align with the community’s values. The inclusion of Mrs. Esther Utomakili as Assistant Financial Secretary highlights the union’s commitment to gender inclusivity, ensuring that women’s voices are represented in decision-making processes. The council’s diverse makeup, with roles such as Public Relations Officer and Auditor, ensures that communication, transparency, and accountability remain central to its operations.
The peaceful and transparent nature of the election has set a positive tone for the new administration. The electoral committee’s diligence in ensuring a fair process has reinforced trust in the union’s leadership selection. Community members have expressed confidence that the new executive will prioritize their needs, from improving local infrastructure to fostering unity among Emevor indians in the diaspora. The election has also been seen as a model for other community organizations in Isoko land, demonstrating the power of collective action and democratic participation.
As the Emevor Progress Union prepares for its Annual General Conference in December, anticipation is building for what promises to be a transformative period under Chief Erezih’s leadership. The union’s history of resilience and commitment to progress provides a strong foundation for the new executive to build upon. Community members are hopeful that the council will leverage its mandate to secure partnerships with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector stakeholders to drive development. The focus on unity and welfare is expected to strengthen the social fabric of Emevor, ensuring that all members of the community, regardless of location, feel connected to its progress.
The election of Chief Emmanuel Erezih and his team marks a new era for the Emevor Progress Union, one filled with promise and opportunity. As the community looks forward to the swearing-in ceremony, there is a shared sense of optimism that the new leadership will uphold the union’s legacy while charting a bold path toward sustainable development. With a strong team, a clear mandate, and the support of the Emevor people, the future looks bright for this historic community organization.
