Contenders Line Up To Replace Ex-minister Nnaji

Following the exit of former minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, who represented Enugu State in the Federal Executive Council (FEC), political attention in the state has shifted to who will take his place in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.

Nnaji’s removal from office created a vacancy that has triggered quiet lobbying among key political figures and technocrats from the Coal City State.

Two former governors of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, as well as technocrats Dr Bede Chukwuekezie and Dr Davidson Nnamani, are among the names being mentioned in political circles.

Some political stakeholders who cite his administrative experience and record in infrastructure development are tipping former Governor Chime, who served between 2007 and 2015. His supporters believe his return to national service would bring governance depth to the Tinubu administration.

Former Governor Ugwuanyi, who governed from 2015 to 2023, is also believed to be interested in the position. Ugwuanyi unsuccessfully contested the Enugu North Senatorial seat in 2023 and is reportedly seeking political re-engagement at the national level.

Two technocrats, Dr Bede Chukwuekezie, widely respected for his intellect, calm political disposition, and neutral stance in state-level factional disputes, and Dr Davidson Nnamani, are also being considered potential nominees within political discussions.

Dr Chukwuekezie, a London-trained scholar and former governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2019, hails from Oji River local government area in Enugu West Senatorial Zone. He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (London).

Close associates of Governor Mbah describe Chukwuekezie as an “ideal candidate, intelligent, loyal, and politically non-threatening.” Mbah’s preference for technocrats over traditional politicians is well known, and Chukwuekezie’s international credentials and quiet influence within Abuja’s APC circles make him particularly appealing.

Dr Davidson Nnamani, an academic and defence strategist from Isi-Uzo local government area in Enugu East Senatorial Zone, has been mentioned among possible nominees. His professional background and contributions to policy research have earned him recognition within and outside the state.

The decision on who eventually replaces Nnaji is expected to be made by President Bola Tinubu, who holds the constitutional prerogative to appoint ministers.

Until an official announcement is made, political observers in Enugu say the unfolding process will determine how the state’s political dynamics align with the federal administration going forward.