By Chidipeters Okorie
The term “technocracy” – derived from the Greek word “tekhne” meaning “skill” – rose to prominence in Enugu State, when Governor Peter Mbah swore-in technocrats as Commissioners to drive his proposed new form of economic prosperity as a radical response to the Greater Enugu Development.
By all standards, this is Enugu’s first technocratic government, because of the high professionals brought into the State Cabinet to rapidly drive and actualize the Governor’s industrialization and economic viability of Enugu State.
Amongst the Honorable Commissioners sworn-in was Engr. Prince Lawrence Ezeh, FNSE, COREN, an exceptional engineer and iconic business leader who has dedicated his life to selfless service; a patriot, democrat, leading technocrat with a blazing trail for generations to come.
Prince Ezeh is a man of extraordinary accomplishment: a trailblazer, a role model, and an inspiration. And he is a proud son of Enugu State, a person from humble origin who never forgot where he started. The son of His Majesty Igwe EMO Ezeh JP (Ozulumba I) of blessed memories, born and raised in Mburubu Kingdom; when it came to college, it was in Nara Boys Secondary School or nowhere, then proceeded to Rivers State University where he bagged degree in Marine Engineering and Enugu State University where he earned Masters Degree and Doctorate Degree In-View. He found and discovered his purpose and direction early enough. He went on to greatness, but he never left behind his humble beginning.
He is such a man propelled into fame by a series of unpredictable events with an impact so philosophical that can precisely be considered providential. Modest and without guile, he has never aspired for any political positions for selfish reasons; he is not obsessed with driving ambition. Rather he has devoted enormous amounts of time and resources to communities’ development in Nkanuland and Enugu State in general.
So far, he has given education scholarships to over 100 indigents who walked to his doors. He loves Enugu State, and loves meeting the youth. He would hear their stories and tell them his own. He would encourage them to work hard and pursue their dreams. He always remind them—and all of us—that “they are just like I was” some years ago. He found great fulfillment in the establishment of Prince Lawrence Ezeh Foundation through which he has given succor to the poor.
The outpouring of love and respect for Prince Ezeh was made manifest extraordinarily in 2019 when he contested for the Enugu East Senatorial election. His message during the election was thoughtful, and his message resonates with all of us till date.
It is quintessentially him: Prince Eze’s legacy more than anything else is the people who he helps; the people he inspires; and the people who he encourages daily to — as he does — devote their lives resilient, hard work, honesty of purpose and commitment to community development.
And through his philanthropic work, he set out to expand opportunity for young people, helping them find something they do well and love doing, just as he has found.
He has helped a generation of young people set their sights higher. He never denied the role economic downfall played in his early life but refused to accept limitations and through his steady principled leadership, he has helped pave the way for so many who would follow.
Very natural, organized, thorough and humble. Without being carried away with the euphoria that comes with riches, he lives a simple lifestyle, always living within his means, thereby showing good examples to others. Going by the testimonies of his personality, Prince Ezeh is adjudged to live a simple but purposeful life, devoid of rancor. He will always ask what people need, making sure they knew he was counting on them. He treats people the way he expects them to treat each other, and he makes sure that they knew he would always have their back. The result has always been that people would walk through walls for him.
Through outstanding service in the private sector, he has a deep commitment to democratic values and never stopped believing in Ndi Enugu.
As the Chief Executive Officer of multi-layered construction and petrochemical company, Buzuzu Construction Company Ltd and its subsidiaries, he has established a pattern of high achievements. He has consistently added luster to institutions which he has been associated.
To anyone who knows Prince Ezeh well at all, it is clear that he will continue to surpass our expectations, because he is endowed with the virtues of sincerity, honesty, loyalty, serenity, persona and integrity. His constructive suggestions, adroitness, and unfailing discretion in handling delicate issues will be of great significant in his Commissionership. His ability to craft a workable solution under extreme time and constraints will constantly be evident in his resolving critical open points.
Certainly, Prince Eze is no stranger to the Governor Mbah’s phenomenon, by reputation, competence and experience, Prince Ezeh reflects his vision, his passion, and his never-ending belief in the essential flora of leadership.
His appointment as Commissioner no doubt, will strengthen Enugu State Government as he embodies Governor Peter Mbah mantra — the Enugu Dream.– “TomorrowIsHere”
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