By Tony Icheku 




 Jan 4, 2023,  Day 2 of the Ikwuano Socio-Economic Summit 2023 would go down in history as a milestone in the politics of Ikwuano LGA. Since the dawn of the 4th Republic in 1999, it was the first opportunity, the people had of inviting candidates for various elective offices to explain to them the plans and programmes they have for the people. Previously, the candidates the candidates would summon the people to tell them what they like. 


Indeed, history was made on Jan 4, 2023 at Isiala-Oboro, as one of the Governorship Candidates was told point-blank that he would get no votes from Ikwuano. Another National Assembly candidate was momentarily dazed by a question suggesting he had been a sectional player. And so it played out, as  candidates of the various political parties took the  hot seat on day-2 of the Ikwuano Socio-Economic Summit 2023, as the electorates whom they are seeking for their mandates, grilled them on their vision and agenda for the people if elected into office.



Chairman of the day's proceedings, Sam Eke, PhD,  in his opening remarks charged the people to consider the numerous challenges facing   Ikwuano ranging from bad road networks, unemployment, lack of development among others before chosing their preferred candidates. He noted that Ikwuano which contributes significantly to the economic strength of the State deserves a better deal than it currently enjoy..


Dr Eke  urged the people not to vote for candidates who have no proven track record but to rather go for individuals with integrity and the capability to meet the needs of the people.



 In his words: ”Consider individual candidates on their individual merits. Consider the past records of the candidates; what have they been able to do on personal capacity?


 You cannot give what you don’t have. Our people have been taken aback for so long and we want to move forward with people, leaders that will identify with us at any time.




“We want to have leaders that will realize that they are there to render services to the people”.


Candidates who made presentations and took question include;  Professor Greg Ibe, the APGA Governorship Candidate, represented by the Director-General of his Campaign Council, Barrister Longman Nwachukwu; Professor Uche Ikonne (represented by Barrister Stanley Ojigbo. Colonel Austin Akobundu (rtd), PDP Senatorial candidate for Abia Central; Chief Chuku Wachuku of YPP. The APC candidate attended the previous day's proceedings




House of Representatives candidates include Chief Obi Aguocha, of the Labour Party, and  Hon Chinedum Orji, represented by Maj. Awah, rtd; Obinna Nwosu of the ADC; Paul Nmeregini of the ADP.



 The candidates for Ikwuano State Constituency showed up in full force including Philip Daniel Iroegbulam,  SDP; Boniface Isienyi, Labour Party; Chiemezie John Ukattah, ADC; Izuchukwu Bigfish, APGA; Tony Alaribe, APC; Erico Orji, Accord; Hon Stanley Nwabuisi, the House of Assembly member attended on Day One of the event, mongst others.




While the candidates have had their day in the sun, they and the people now look up to ADII for direction before voting begins. "And certainly we will, ADII will certainly guide Ndi Ikwuano how to ensure only leaders with their interest at heart emerged", says Hon Emeka Osoagbaka, it's chairman.