Governor Nwifuru Gifts 14 SUVs to Newly Ordained Catholic Priests Despite Ebonyi’s High Poverty Rate, Cites Support for God’s Work

In a move that has sparked both admiration and controversy, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has donated 14 new SUVs to newly ordained priests of the Abakaliki Diocese. The presentation took place on Saturday during the ordination ceremony at St. Theresa’s Catholic Cathedral in the state capital.

Governor Nwifuru stated that the donation was meant to support the spiritual work of the priests, enabling them to better serve their communities and spread the word of God. This act of generosity comes amid Ebonyi State’s ongoing economic difficulties, with the state struggling with a high poverty rate.

This is not the first time Governor Nwifuru has made such a gesture. Last July, he gifted five vehicles to newly ordained priests, highlighting his consistent support for the religious community in Ebonyi State.

However, the governor’s actions have raised eyebrows, given the state’s dire economic situation. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Ebonyi State ranks as the poorest in Southern Nigeria, with an 80% poverty rate, placing it fourth on the national poverty index, behind Sokoto, Taraba, and Jigawa in the Northern region.

Adding to the controversy, civil servants in Ebonyi State have expressed disappointment over a recent N10,000 salary increment, which they consider insufficient. This has led to questions about the state’s allocation of resources and the governor’s spending priorities.