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A few years ago, former Chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Area, Pastor Sam Iyiogwe, led journalists through neglected communities in his area where schools were scarce, chemist shops doubled as hospitals, and some areas lacked road access for decades. In Amankanu, residents recalled transporting pregnant women in wheelbarrows to distant health facilities.
Iyiogwe began opening up rural roads and improving access to services before Governor Peter Mbah’s election in 2023. In this interview, he reflects on the situation of his people 10 years later.
You initiated the development of abandoned communities in Nkanu East as LGA Chairman and also canvassed for a governor from the area. Are you surprised you have no appointment in this government?
Thank you, and compliments of the season. As we celebrate the liberation of mankind through our Lord Jesus Christ, I wish you a Happy Easter in advance.
In life, God is in control of everything. Every politician deserves to contribute, but the reality is that many people enter politics seeking personal gain rather than service. For me, what brought me into politics was the deplorable condition of my people, especially in Amechi-Idodo, Owo, and Amankanu.
At that time, I didn’t fully understand how bad Nkanu East was until I got involved. My support for Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani also strengthened my commitment to politics, particularly in defending him during political attacks.
However, my primary motivation was infrastructure—especially roads. Nkanu East was practically cut off; movement during the rainy season was nearly impossible. I didn’t join politics for appointments or contracts but to open up my area.
Today, I am fulfilled because the current governor has achieved, and even surpassed, that vision. What we started, he has completed on a much larger scale—dual carriage roads from Enugu/Abakaliki Expressway through Owo, Ubahu, Amankanu, to Neke and Ikem, connecting us to Enugu North.
As chairman, I opened the first motorable road into Amankanu and linked several communities. Today, the governor has expanded these efforts with modern roads and concrete bridges across rivers like Inyaba and Idodo.
So whether I hold a position or not, I am happy and grateful. The governor listens to me, respects my contributions, and responds when necessary. I remain part of the system, even without an official title.
Don’t you think working within the administration would help you contribute more?
The governor understands who to engage at every point. Personally, I believe strongly in God’s will. What matters most is that he is delivering beyond expectations.
Many of the projects we initiated, including the Ugwuomu–Odobudo–Ubahu corridor, are now being reconstructed to higher standards. We had earlier carried out needs assessments on roads and electricity, which informed some of these developments.
During my tenure, with the support of Professor Bart Nnaji and Senator Gil Nnaji, we brought electricity to about 16 communities. Today, road networks we proposed are being fully realised.
I am deeply grateful. I remember praying fervently for the liberation of Nkanu East, and today, those prayers have been answered.
How would you rate Governor Peter Mbah’s performance?
The governor is calm, focused, and highly organised. He doesn’t make noise, but he delivers results. Governance requires concentration, not constant public appearances.
From what I have seen, Enugu State has made significant progress. I was moved to tears during the NBA Conference when I finally visited the completed International Conference Centre—a project we had prayed for years ago without success. That moment was a testimony of God’s faithfulness and the governor’s commitment.
Across the state, development is visible in both urban and rural areas. Roads, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure projects are ongoing everywhere. What stands out is the transparency—there are no reports of contractors being harassed for kickbacks.
The Smart Schools, for instance, are transformative projects designed to uplift rural communities. The governor’s vision is clear: bring development to the grassroots.
My only concern is that government officials are not doing enough to publicize these achievements.
You mentioned crying twice. What happened?
One was a cry of joy at the International Conference Centre—gratitude to God and appreciation for the governor’s achievement.
The other was during my time as chairman. I proposed a 70km road project linking several communities, but it was considered too ambitious by Governor Sullivan Chime. I was heartbroken and broke down in tears.
Instead of giving up, I took initiative and began work on parts of the road within my capacity. Today, those same corridors are being fully developed by the current administration.
What challenges still remain in Nkanu East?
While much has been done, challenges remain—especially erosion and connectivity in some communities.For example, a critical bridge linking several communities is on the verge of collapse, which could cut off access to Smart Schools. I have brought this to the governor’s attention, and I am hopeful for intervention.
What have you been doing since leaving office in 2016?
After my tenure, I served briefly under Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and later as SSA on Water Supply. Since then, I have returned to private business.
I have been in business since 1993, after retiring from the Nigeria Customs Service. My interests include construction, pharmaceuticals, consultancy, logistics, and transportation.
What are Governor Mbah’s chances in 2027?
The dynamics of 2023 and 2027 are different. In 2023, internal party grievances and lack of coordination affected the PDP, alongside the influence of Peter Obi’s presidential movement.
However, for 2027, the governor’s performance speaks for itself. He has delivered meaningful development, and it would be a disservice not to support him for a second term.
That said, nothing should be taken for granted. With his current achievements and commitment, I believe he stands a strong chance of re-election.
