Traditional ruler donates N7.7m to South Africa returnees

The Chairman of the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, Samuel Asadu, has donated N100,000 each to 77 Enugu returnee families from South Africa, amounting to N7.7 million.

The Special Adviser to Governor Peter Mbah on Diaspora Matters, Olangwa Ezekwu, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Enugu.

Mrs Ezekwu said the traditional ruler gifted the cash to the returnees’ representatives while receiving them at his palace in Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom.

She said that Mr Asadu commended Governor Mbah’s intervention and stated that his donation was intended to complement the support already provided by the state government.

“The paramount ruler encouraged the returnees to remain hopeful and courageous and to embrace the opportunity to rebuild their lives in Enugu,” she said.

Responding on behalf of the Enugu State Government, the special adviser thanked Mr Asadu for standing with the returnees and complementing the governor’s intervention.

“Coming home under circumstances you did not choose carries its own pain. Some of you left behind businesses, possessions and years of investment.

“Governor Peter Mbah has demonstrated that your welfare matters by providing one million to each of the 77 families.

“We are grateful that you are home safely, and we will continue to support you as you rebuild.”

She described the traditional ruler’s N7.7 million intervention as an important demonstration of solidarity and community responsibility.

She further called on individuals, corporate organisations, faith-based institutions, and other well-meaning citizens to support the returnees as they begin rebuilding their lives.