In an era where many public office holders merely occupy positions, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa has demonstrated that a true legislator is not merely one who makes laws, but one who changes lives. As the popular African proverb says, “the true measure of leadership is not the number of followers, but the number of lives transformed.”
Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa remains a quintessential grassroots politician whose politics is deeply rooted in humanity, compassion, accessibility, and service. He listens attentively to the heartbeat of the people, governs with empathy, and leads with uncommon humility. His leadership philosophy reflects the timeless truth that “when the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.”
Within three years in office, the Rt. Hon. Speaker has recorded monumental achievements in health, agriculture, education, road infrastructure, youth development and sports, peace and conflict resolution, human capital development, power and water resources, and humanitarian services. Simultaneously, he has strengthened the legislative institution of Ebonyi State through impactful lawmaking, robust oversight functions, institutional reforms, and harmonious intergovernmental relationships.
LEGISLATIVE EXCELLENCE: SHAPING THE FUTURE THROUGH IMPACTFUL LAWMAKING
As the Chief Lawmaker of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa has presided over one of the most productive and proactive legislative assemblies in the history of the State. Under his watch, the Ebonyi State House of Assembly has become a bastion of peace, productivity, legislative innovation, and institutional stability.
His tenure has witnessed the passage of numerous impactful bills tailored towards economic growth, infrastructural advancement, security enhancement, institutional reforms, investment promotion, poverty reduction, youth empowerment, ease of doing business, educational development, environmental sustainability, and social justice. True leadership, they say, is planting trees under whose shade others will sit tomorrow. Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa has indeed planted enduring legislative foundations that generations yet unborn will benefit from.
The bills include:
• A bill for the establishment of Ebonyi State Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, and other related matters.
• A bill, for the Establishment of Boundary and Allied Matters Commission.
• A Bill for the Establishment of Ebonyi State Rural Access Road Authority (EBRARA), And For Other Matters Connected Thereto 2023.
• A Bill for The Establishment Of Ebonyi State Road Fund (EBSRF) And Ebonyi State Road Fund Board And Administration (EBSRFBA).
• A bill, for the Establishment of Ebonyi State Drugs And Medical Commodities Management Agency, And Other Related Matters 2023.
• A bill for a law to appropriate a total sum of Two Hundred and Two Billion, One Hundred and Twenty Seven Million, Nine Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, Nine Hundred and Seven Naira (#202,127,918,907.00) only for the services of Ebonyi State government of Nigeria for the year ending 31st December, 2024 and other purposes connected thereto.
• A bill for a law to provide for the administration of physical planning, urban regeneration and building control in Ebonyi State and for other matters connected thereto.
• A bill for a law to establish Ebonyi State urban and regional planning and development law, Ebonyi State building control agency regulations 2024.
• A bill for a law to provide for the Ebonyi State urban and regional planning and development law and Ebonyi State physical planning permit regulations 2024.
• A bill for a law to harmonize the salaries and conditions of service of Chief Registrars, and those of permanent Secretaries in Ebonyi State and other matters related thereto.
• A Bill for a Law to Establish the Ebonyi State Citizens Mediation Centre and Other Matters Connected Thereto.
• A Bill for a Law to Amend Ebonyi State Honours Law 2022.
• A Bill for a Law to Amend Ebonyi State Fiscal Responsibility Commission and other Related Matters Law 2020.
• A Bill for a Law to Establish and Regulate the Ebonyi State Correctional Service, to Ensure Human and Effective Management of Offenders, Promote Reformation, Reintegration, and Public Safety, and to Make Provisions for the Administration of Custodial and Non-custodial Services in the State and for Related Matters.
• A bill for a law to appropriate a total sum of Three hundred and ninety six billion, five hundred and eighty nine million, nine thousand, six hundred and twenty naira (#396,589,009,620) only, for the services of Ebonyi State government of Nigeria for the year ending 31st December, 2025 and other purposes connected thereto.
• A bill for a Law, to Establish Ebonyi State International Airport Law and Other Matters Connected Thereto (Official Gazette Publication).
• A bill for a law to establish Ebonyi State Water Users Association Law and Provide for other Matters Connected therewith.
• A bill for a law to Preserve the Sacredness of Izhi Ancestral Home Land of Anmegu and Ebiya-Unuphu and to Prohibit Sale of Lands therein and for other related matters.
• A bill for a law to establish Ebonyi State Senior Secondary Education Board Law 2024.
• A bill for a law to Establish the Ebonyi State Electricity Law 2024 and for other matters connected thereto.
• A bill for a law to establish the Ebonyi State fertilizer and chemical company limited Board law 2024.
• A bill for establishment of Ebonyi State Disability Rights Commission Law.
• A bill for a law to repeal Ebonyi State roads Maintenance Agency and related matters law 2025.
• A bill for a law to repeal Ebonyi State University of aerospace engineering law No. 19 of 2021, and re-enact Ebonyi State University of aeronautics and aerospace engineering Ezza, Ebonyi State law 2025.
• A bill for a law to legalize and make binding the peace accord between the people of Effiium and Ezza-Effium; Creation of Effiium and Ezza-Effium autonomous communities, and demarcation of Effiium and Ezza-Effium land in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, and other related matters Law 2025.
• A bill to amend Ebonyi State Local Government Councils and Development Centres regulation and remuneration package for public and political officeholders.
• A bill to establish Ebonyi State Street naming and property addressing system.
• A Bill to delist Amasiri Development Centre, to restore peace and protect lives.
• Passage of ₦885,807,118,099.18 as 2026 Appropriation Bill.
• A Bill, renaming School of Health Sciences and Technology, Ngbo to Ebonyi State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ngbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area.
• 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill.
• A Bill for a Law to repeal Ebonyi State College of Education Amendment Law 008 of 2010 and to reenact A Law to establish the Ebonyi State College of Education Ikwo as a degree awarding Institution.
• A Bill for a Law to establish Education Development Trust Fund and other Matters Connected thereto.
• A Bill to provide public private partnership.
• A Bill to establish investment and promotion Agency.
• A Bill to amend section 30 as well as section 25 of the second schedule of the Ebonyi State Electoral and Related matters (amendment) law 001 of 2020.
• A Bill to Amend the Magistrate Court Law of Ebonyi State to increase the monetary juridiction of magistrate's courts in civil causes or matters and for related matters (amendment) law.
• A Bill to provide for the ease of doing business, ensure transparency, efficiency and productivity in Ebonyi State and for related matters.
• A bill for a law, to provide for the establishment of the Office of the Public Defender and other matters Connected thereto.
MOTIONS, RESOLUTIONS AND STRATEGIC APPROVALS
Under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa, the Ebonyi State House of Assembly has equally distinguished itself through people-oriented motions, strategic resolutions, and impactful approvals aimed at improving governance, enhancing security, stimulating economic growth, and promoting peace and social harmony across the State.
As the saying goes, “when the shepherd is vigilant, the flock prospers.” The Speaker has continuously ensured that the legislature remains responsive to the yearnings and aspirations of Ebonyians.
Chief Odunwa has also presided the Honourable House to pass the following motions and resolutions:
• Adoption of a proposal for the payment of the Town Union Executives by the Local Government Council Chairmen.
• Adoption of a motion for the passage of a vote of confidence on the State Governor, Chief Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
• Resolution for the adoption of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework for the duration of the 2024-2026 financial year by the State Government.
• Approval of the engagement of the professional services of the Integrated Consultancy, Management and Accountancy (ICMA) in the State to qualify to access Seven Billion Naira Fiscal Support Fund.
• Implementation of the Resolution of the thirteen (13) Local Government Executive Chairmen in Ebonyi State: Contribution for joint Projects (Provision of Befitting Palaces for Ebonyi State Traditional Rulers).
• Adoption of a motion for conversion of ten State Junior Model Secondary Schools across the three senatorial zones established in 2018 to full fledged Model Secondary Schools.
• Adoption of a motion to ban masquerading at public places in Ohaukwu Local Government Area.
• Approval of Request for the purchase of Aircraft by Ebonyi State government.
• Request for approval of Christmas palliatives for Ebonyians.
• Approval of proposal to maximize the revenue recovery from utility infrastructure (Telecom Tax) within Ebonyi State.
• Approval of Engagement of Boards Limited as a consultant to Ebonyi on NG Care Programme.
• Approval of request to Create additional six (6) autonomous communities and four (4) autonomous communities from Agbaja and Igbeagu autonomous communities respectively.
• Approval of Medium Expenditure framework of 2025 - 2027 fiscal year.
• Approval of request to remove illegal structures at Aguogboriga layout.
• Approval of request to Engage five (5) revenue financial consultants to Ebonyi State.
• Approval of Request to Sell the Ebonyi Rice City Hotel.
• Approval of Supplementary Budget for Ebonyi State government for 2024 fiscal year.
• A motion to ban crusade of spiritual cleansing/fishing out witches and wizards through prophecy by so called men of God in Ebonyi State.
• Approval of some revenue/financial consultants in Ebonyi State.
• Adoption of a motion, to compel the thirteen Local Government Area Chairmen, Development Centre Coordinators, Traditional Rulers, Ward Councillors, and Town Union Presidents in Ebonyi State to reside in their various Council areas, Communities, and villages.
• Adoption of the Creation of 12 More Local Government Areas in Ebonyi State.
• Condemned the Gruesome Attack on the People of Amagu - Nkalaha in Ishielu Local Government.
• Approved an engagement for Advisory, reconciliation and recovery support under project Gazelle.
• Adoption of a report of joint committee on public account, Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters, and finance/appropriation on audited statement of accounts of the thirteen (13) local Government Areas of Ebonyi State for the year ended 31st December, 2023.
• Approval of the engagement of EMEKEL PROJECTS LTD as consultant to recover funds expanded on David Umahi Federal University of Health Science.
• Adoption of a motion to mandate Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to reduce their outrageous bills, to enable consumers enjoy their services.
• Approval of proposal for consultancy services to facilitate recovery of outstanding federal tertiary institution PAYE for Ebonyi State.
• Adoption of report of the tour to the 64 development centres in the State by the House committee on Local Government and EBSIEC matters.
• Adoption of a Motion to Mandate Mining Companies Operating in the State to Submit Environmental Impact Assessment Report and Environmental Audit Report.
• Approves Funds for the 2026 Local Government Council Election.
• Adopts provision of security to the Traditional Rulers.
• Mandates all Mining and Solid Mineral companies Operating in Ebonyi State to Establish Corporate Presence in the State.
• Condemns Killings in Okporojo, Osu-Edda Community; Commends Governor Nwifuru's Swift and Decisive Intervention.
• Issued 2-week ultimatum to IGR Board to sit up and sanitise revenue collection in the State.
• Approves Funds for 2025 Christmas Palliative.
• Gives nod to Governor Nwifuru's Trip to Germany and USA for medication and NGF Investment Mission/UNGA 80, and for the Deputy Governor to become the Acting Governor of the State.
• Approves Proposal for review, reconciliation and recovery of NLNG Dividends as unmerited oil revenue for Ebonyi State.
• Approves 2026 - 2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).
• Approves ₦1 billion Bank of Industry loan facility for on-lending to MSMEs in Ebonyi State.
• Approves Ebonyi State’s participation in FAAC receivables discounting programme for infrastructure financing.
-BUILDING THE ECONOMIC BACKBONE OF EBONYI STATE
A nation that fails to empower its entrepreneurs digs the grave of its economy with its own hands. Understanding this timeless truth, the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, under Speaker Odunwa’s legislative leadership, passed the Bill for the Establishment of Ebonyi State Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDA). This legislation is not an ordinary enactment; it is an economic lifeline designed to place opportunity in the hands of dreamers, traders, artisans, innovators, and young entrepreneurs. In a world where unemployment stalks households like a shadow, this law serves as a lantern of hope. By institutionalizing support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), the House laid the legislative foundation for wealth creation, industrial growth, and poverty reduction.
The approval of the ₦1 billion Bank of Industry loan facility for on-lending to MSMEs further reinforced this economic philosophy. This singular move carries the potential to birth thousands of businesses, create jobs, and strengthen local productivity. After all, when you empower one entrepreneur, you feed many families.
In the same vein, the Bill to establish the Ebonyi State Investment and Promotion Agency and the Bill for Ease of Doing Business stand as towering pillars of economic modernization. These laws seek to dismantle bureaucratic bottlenecks, enthrone transparency, and create a business-friendly climate capable of attracting investors from within and beyond Nigeria. For investors are like birds; they perch where the environment is peaceful and productive.
The House equally approved Ebonyi State’s participation in the FAAC receivables discounting programme for infrastructure financing, an economically strategic decision capable of unlocking resources for developmental projects without unnecessarily overburdening citizens.
-ROADS, INFRASTRUCTURE AND RURAL CONNECTIVITY: OPENING PATHWAYS TO DEVELOPMENT
It is often said that where roads fail, development limps. The enactment of the Ebonyi State Rural Access Road Authority (EBRARA) and the Ebonyi State Road Fund and Administration Law reflects an uncommon legislative foresight. Roads are not merely pathways; they are economic arteries through which commerce breathes.
Through these laws, rural farmers gain easier access to markets, businesses expand transportation networks, emergency services improve accessibility, and communities once abandoned by poor infrastructure become integrated into the mainstream of economic life.
A farmer whose produce rots because of inaccessible roads suffers not because he lacks harvest, but because governance failed to provide access. By legislating around road sustainability and financing, Speaker Odunwa’s House planted seeds for long-term infrastructural resilience.
-PEACE, UNITY AND SECURITY: USING LEGISLATION TO HEAL DIVISIONS
Peace, they say, is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice. Perhaps one of the most historic legislative interventions under Speaker Odunwa is the law legalizing and making binding the peace accord between the people of Effium and Ezza-Effium.
In a society bruised by communal unrest, this law became more than legislation; it became a bridge over troubled waters. By creating autonomous communities and legally defining boundaries, the Assembly transformed fragile peace into institutional peace.
History teaches that unresolved conflict is a seed that germinates future violence. Yet through wisdom, consultation, and legislative courage, the House sought to replace bitterness with brotherhood.
Similarly, the motion banning masquerading in volatile public places in Ohaukwu Local Government Area and the condemnation of killings in troubled communities show a legislature unwilling to fold its hands while insecurity grows wings. Indeed, when the shepherd stays awake, wolves think twice.
-EDUCATION: BUILDING MINDS, SHAPING FUTURES
No society rises above the quality of its education. The establishment of the Ebonyi State Senior Secondary Education Board Law 2024, the Education Development Trust Fund, and the reenactment of the Ebonyi State College of Education Ikwo as a Degree Awarding Institution demonstrate a legislative commitment to intellectual rebirth.
The conversion of junior model schools into full-fledged secondary schools further guaranteed educational continuity for students who otherwise might have faced academic uncertainty. These interventions are profound because education is the ladder through which generations climb out of poverty. A child denied education today becomes society’s burden tomorrow. But a child educated becomes tomorrow’s doctor, engineer, teacher, entrepreneur, legislator, and nation builder.
The renaming of the School of Health Sciences and Technology, Ngbo to the Ebonyi State College of Health Sciences and Technology equally signifies expansion in professional healthcare education.
-HEALTHCARE AND HUMAN WELL-BEING
The establishment of the Ebonyi State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency represents legislative intelligence at work. Healthcare collapses where medicine distribution fails. By institutionalizing drug procurement and supply management, the House laid a framework for efficiency, accountability, and improved healthcare delivery.
Good governance, after all, must be felt not only in speeches but in hospital wards, pharmacies, and treatment centres.
-JUSTICE, HUMAN RIGHTS AND INSTITUTIONAL REFORMS
The establishment of the Ebonyi State Citizens Mediation Centre and the Office of the Public Defender speaks volumes about Speaker Odunwa’s people-oriented legislative vision.
Justice delayed, they say, is justice denied. Yet justice inaccessible is injustice institutionalized. These institutions ensure that ordinary citizens, including the poor and vulnerable can access legal mediation and defence without oppression swallowing their voices.
The amendment increasing the monetary jurisdiction of Magistrate Courts equally strengthens judicial efficiency and expands access to justice. Likewise, the establishment of the Ebonyi State Correctional Service Law signaled a transition from punishment alone to rehabilitation, reformation, and reintegration. For even broken wings can heal.
-AGRICULTURE, WATER, ELECTRICITY AND INDUSTRIAL GROWTH
The Ebonyi State Fertilizer and Chemical Company Board Law, Water Users Association Law, and Electricity Law 2024 collectively form the tripod of sustainable development. Agriculture flourishes with fertilizer. Communities thrive with water. Businesses prosper with electricity. These laws possess far-reaching implications; from food security and agricultural productivity to industrial expansion and employment creation.
-RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE THROUGH BUDGETARY OVERSIGHT
A government without budgetary discipline is like a canoe paddled without direction. Under Speaker Odunwa, the House passed landmark appropriation laws, including the 2024, 2025, and 2026 budgets, ensuring fiscal continuity and developmental planning.
The approval of Medium-Term Expenditure Frameworks (MTEF) reflects legislative seriousness in ensuring that governance is not merely reactive but strategic and future-oriented.
-A HOUSE THAT WORKS: SCREENING AND CONFIRMATIONS
A government machinery functions efficiently only when competent hands are entrusted with responsibility. The Ebonyi State House of Assembly under Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa diligently screened and confirmed commissioners, board members, judicial nominees, coordinators, service commissions, and other strategic appointees. This constitutional responsibility ensured institutional stability and accountability in governance.
-MODERNIZING THE PEOPLE’S PARLIAMENT
Leadership is not only about passing laws; it is also about building institutions. Speaker Odunwa’s renovation of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly Legislative Complex and the ongoing construction of modern legislative offices for Honourable Members symbolize his belief that lawmakers deserve an environment conducive for productive governance. A workplace shapes productivity. Excellence thrives where vision meets structure.
HUMAN-CENTERED LEADERSHIP AND CONSTITUENCY TRANSFORMATION
Beyond legislative excellence, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa has continued to distinguish himself as a compassionate leader and community builder whose developmental strides across Ikwo South State Constituency have remained both visible and impactful.
HEALTH
Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa firmly believes that good health is the bedrock upon which prosperous societies are built. Consequently, he sponsored free medical outreaches across the ten political wards of Ikwo South Constituency, extending same humanitarian gesture to St. Anthony’s Parish, Ndufu Echara. Through these interventions, countless indigent persons received medical consultations, treatments, screenings, and medications free of charge. He equally facilitated the enrollment of numerous constituents into the Health Insurance Scheme to guarantee improved healthcare accessibility.
In the spirit of compassion and service, he also organized a memorable Christmas celebration for children in 2025, blending festivity with free medical treatment and screenings for women, children, and vulnerable constituents. Indeed, “the fragrance of a flower spreads in the direction of the wind, but the goodness of a man spreads in all directions.”
ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE
Infrastructure remains the backbone of economic development, and the Rt. Hon. Speaker has consistently attracted meaningful road projects to his constituency.
Among these are:
• The construction of the 13km Onu-Igboji to Odomowo road, and another 6km road, cutting accross Effiemgbabu Playground - Ikwo High School road, and other rural areas.
• Inclusion of Agubia - Igweledoha - Onyikwa - Okpoitumo road in the 2026 budget. These roads are not merely pathways; they are economic arteries that will stimulate commerce, improve mobility, and connect communities to opportunities.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND SPORTS
Recognizing that youths are the strength of every society, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa instituted the Unity Cup Competition across the ten wards of Ikwo South Constituency. This football competition was not merely a sporting activity but a strategic instrument for peacebuilding, youth engagement, talent discovery, and social integration. His vision is deeply anchored on the understanding that “when youths are united in purpose, society prospers in peace.”
AGRICULTURE
In his determination to promote food sufficiency and improve agricultural productivity, the Rt. Hon. Speaker has consistently distributed fertilizers, rice seedlings, and herbicides to farmers across his constituency. These interventions have significantly encouraged local farming, enhanced food production, and reduced economic hardship among rural dwellers.
HUMANITARIAN SERVICES AND EMPOWERMENT
One of the defining hallmarks of Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa’s leadership is his commitment to empowerment and humanitarian service. He has assisted numerous constituents in securing both State and Federal employments, distributed palliatives during festive seasons, supported vulnerable families financially, and intervened in countless medical emergencies. Unlike politicians who seek publicity over productivity, Chief Odunwa quietly transforms lives behind the scenes. As the saying goes, “empty barrels make the loudest noise.” His leadership philosophy remains firmly rooted in silent impact and visible results. Today, many of his aides and associates have become successful entrepreneurs, landlords, and car owners through his mentorship and empowerment initiatives.
POWER AND WATER RESOURCES
Access to clean water and stable energy remains critical to rural development. In this regard, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa has facilitated the drilling of both manual and motorized boreholes across some communities within Ikwo South Constituency. He has equally sustained the provision and maintenance of solar-powered street lights in villages across the constituency, thereby improving security and social life.
EDUCATION
As a retired teacher, Chief Odunwa understands that education remains the master key to societal advancement.
His interventions in the educational sector include:
• Payment of school fees for indigent students.
• Sponsorship of SSCE candidates.
• Financial support for Law and Medical students.
• Construction of the largest school building at CPS Ndiegu Amagu.
• Payment of tuition and bench fees for 500-level medical students of Ebonyi State University. Indeed, “education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
PEACE AND UNITY
Perhaps one of the most remarkable attributes of Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa is his uncommon ability to build bridges where others erect walls. As Speaker, he has maintained cordial relationships among Honourable Members and strengthened executive-legislative harmony in Ebonyi State. As Chairman of the Peace Implementation Committee in Ikwo Local Government Area, he has played strategic roles in resolving communal tensions and restoring lasting peace. Today, Ikwo stands as one of the most peaceful Local Government Areas in Nigeria, largely due to his diplomacy, patience, and conflict resolution mechanisms. For him, peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, dialogue, understanding, and unity.
HONOUR, RECOGNITION, AND NATIONAL RELEVANCE
In recognition of his sterling leadership qualities and legislative excellence, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa emerged as the Deputy Chairman of the APC Speakers’ Forum in September 2023. Furthermore, on 7th April, 2024, he received the prestigious BEST SPEAKER OF THE YEAR Award from the South East Caucus of the Nigerian Youth Parliament. These recognitions are testaments that excellence can never be hidden, for “gold does not fear fire.”
CONCLUSION
Three years in office have clearly demonstrated that Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa is not merely occupying a political office; he is building a legacy.
His leadership journey reflects service, humility, courage, vision, compassion, and transformational governance. He has shown that leadership is not about self-glorification, but about lifting others, restoring hope, and creating opportunities. From legislative reforms to grassroots development, from peacebuilding to youth empowerment, from infrastructural advancement to humanitarian interventions, the Rt. Hon. Speaker has continued to write his name in gold in the political history of Ebonyi State.
Indeed, when the story of progressive legislative leadership in Ebonyi State is told, the name Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa shall remain indelible. His three years in office have proven that true leadership is not measured by noise, propaganda, or political theatrics, but by visible impact, enduring legacy, and transformed lives. To God be all the glory.
Theophilus Ifeanyi Igwe,
Chief Press Secretary to the Rt. Hon. Speaker.
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