•What City People Found Out
Many Citizens of Enugu State are happy with Governor Peter Mbah, the Executive Governor of the state for keeping his campaign promises. One of which is constant water, saying that in his first 100 days in the office, the Enugu people would have water in all of its environs.
On November 14, he announced wage awards of between N10,000 and N25,000 to the state workers till April 2024. He also assured that the new minimum wage negotiation would soon be concluded.
Mbah stressed that the welfare of workers remained the priority of his administration, as his laudable goals for Enugu could not be attained without a happy workforce.
The Gov. also announced an increase by his administration of the state social register enrolment from 43,000 to 260,000, promising to lift more indigent citizens through cash transfers and other social interventions.
Meanwhile, the most notable promise he made, especially to the youth was to restore and uplift the cultural landscape of the city, while promising to be committed to entertainment and its importance in promoting the state’s identity.
The last 9 years have been turmoil for the youths of the state, the people have been deprived of festivals that have always been sponsored by the state government, under its Ministry of Culture and Tourism, especially the ever-beautiful and exciting carnival “Road Block”, which usually comes up every festive season.
It ended with the administration of Governor Sullivan Chime. The moment its successor, Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi came on board in 2015, it was shut down. Reasons were not given at the time, but people close to the government said it lacked funds to sponsor it.
Fast forward to 2023, the state, also known as Coal City State is set to witness the return of the highly anticipated “Road Block Show. This music and comedy concert aims to showcase and encourage the thriving entertainment industry in Enugu State, providing a platform for both its indigenes and residents to enjoy a spectacular evening of fun and laughter.
The upcoming Road Block Show which is set to commence on December 16 -20, holds immense significance as it marks the impending leadership of the governor. This event is not just any ordinary concert; it embodies the yuletide associative peculiarities of the average Igbo person. Traditionally held at the year-end, the show serves as a unifying celebration for Enugu citizens worldwide, offering them an opportunity to come together and rejoice over a successful year.
It was recalled that in previous editions of Road Block, held by The inaugural Barr. Chime, the stellar lineup has included renowned comedians and musicians who have graced the stage with their captivating performances. Notable performers have included the exhilarating Mohits crew, Duncan Mighty, Flavor, Bracket, Slow Dogg, Stormrex, P-Square, Wizkid, Timaya, Ice Prince, Tiwa Savage, X_Fellaz, IHS, Burna Boy, among others.
Speaking to some of the state’s residents, Chima Eze, a businessman, said: I’m very excited about the return of this amazing show. We have waited for 9 years to see it again. The last time I attended it was 22 December 2014, when I took my final year exam in school and now am an established businessman with family. That how long it has been out,” he said.
Another resident, who simply chose to be identified as junior, said that the present governor would serve the state for 8 years for this marvelous thing he brought back. “If you ask 100% of Enugu citizens what they think of the return of Road Block, 85% would say that it’s a step toward greatness for Gov. Mbah, and believe me the other 15% are elders, kids, and some parents.
“We in Enugu have waited for years, many even said it’s not coming back again because the past governor denied us of our happiness, which comes every festive season. For this, I will still vote for Gov. Mba in 2027 and he will win and complete his two tenures,” he said.
Chidimma Ekpa, a beautician, said that she is so excited but not surprised because Gov. Mbah made the promise during his campaign. “I’m excited is because it’s a long awaited event and I’m so happy because His Excellency Gov. Peter Mbah during his campaign promised to bring back our road block and now he fulfilled his promise,” she said.
According to her, the past road blocks were fun and entertaining with loads of elite artistes performing everyday. “I remembered vividly about the past road blocks, the fun, entertainment from the celebrities/artists made it so fun, it’s not only that, it also paved way for the traders and business people’s showcase their brand and got more clients/customers.
“Peter Mbah being a business minded person would make it easy to excel and open the door for things to flow in the state. God bless Gov. Peter Mbah, God bless Ndi Enugu. Enugu bu Nkeanyi,” Ms Ekpa said.
With the return of Road Block Fest, the second edition aptly titled “Coal City Unseen,” the event promises an energetic injection of fun and nonstop entertainment, attendees can expect an unforgettable experience filled with electrifying performances and surprises that capture the essence of Enugu’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Enugu’s Road Block Show is more than just a music and comedy concert; it stands as a testament to the city’s creativity, resilience, and unity. As the countdown begins, anticipation builds for what promises to be an extraordinary evening that will leave attendees in awe and create lasting memories for years to come.
By Benprince Ezeh
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