Titus Eleweke, Editor, South East I Monday, April 27.27
AWKA, Anambra – A former Federal Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission, Obunike Callistus Ohaegbu, has declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, stating clearly that his ambition is not driven by the pursuit of token projects.
According to him, his aspiration is anchored on providing strong, effective representation that constituents can be proud of, rather than focusing on superficial constituency interventions.
Ohaegbu made this declaration on Saturday at his country home in Ebe, Ukpor, in Nnewi South Local Government Area, where he formally announced his intention to run for the House of Representatives seat under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), emphasizing institutional growth and sustainable development.
“Let me be clear: I am not going to the National Assembly for boreholes, streetlights, or token projects. My mission is bigger—the transformation of our constituency and the South-East at large.
“As National Coordinator of the South East Patriots, I am already championing critical initiatives such as gas infrastructure to power industries across the South-East; functional Eastern ports to decongest Lagos and boost regional trade; dredging of the River Niger to unlock economic potential; and completion of the Port Harcourt–Aba–Enugu–Maiduguri rail corridor.
“These are the real issues that will create jobs, empower our people, and reposition our region economically,” he said.
He noted that the constituency is strategically positioned, citing the presence of an existing Federal Government Industrial Park project within the Akwaehedi/Unubi axis in Nnewi South Local Government Area.
“I am not surprised that our current representative may not even be aware of this project, as his antecedents do not readily confer such capacity. With the right representation, however, we can transform it into a hub for massive employment and industrial growth.
“Securing the right of way for gas pipelines and reviving the old Eastern ports will lead to comprehensive economic transformation of our constituency and the entire South-East,” he added.
Ohaegbu also recounted his early life struggles, including losing his father shortly after birth and being raised by his mother, who later became a teacher through the intervention of a community leader.
He referenced his longstanding commitment to community development, particularly through initiatives such as Odi Mma Ukpor.
He further stated that during his tenure as Federal Commissioner at the Public Complaints Commission, more than 20 sons and daughters of the constituency secured employment within the Commission, while many others gained opportunities across federal agencies through his interventions, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) postings.
He emphasized that even outside public office, he has remained committed to serving his people, adding that if elected, he would provide purposeful representation for the collective good.
Ohaegbu commended Governor Charles Soludo for what he described as commendable work in the state, but cautioned against political decisions that could be detrimental to the interests of the Igbo people.
He also urged constituents to register with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and participate actively in the electoral process.
Speaking at the event, an ADC chieftain, Benchuks Nwosu, advised Ohaegbu to remain focused and ignore distractions from those who might prematurely suggest that victory is already assured.
“I have been there twice, so I understand the work ahead. I am here because I believe in you. You have a track record of uplifting the people, and you have been doing so consistently,” he said.
Nwosu also appealed to the people to register with the ADC and mobilize support at the ward level, stressing that membership outside the local structure would not translate into electoral success.
“I urge our brothers and sisters here to register and strengthen the party at their wards. Being a member of ADC abroad, whether in the UK or America, does not help us here,” he added.
He further commended Governor Charles Soludo for his performance but criticized the use of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for political expansion beyond the state, describing it as inappropriate.
“Soludo is doing well—let us tell ourselves the truth. When you see the truth, say it,” he added.
