By Comr. Osinachi David Ekwueme


The conventional and social media offers us the opportunity to be informed of happenings, especially political activities in communities far from ours. Such information allows us to compare and contrast what obtains in those places and our own environment. Earlier this morning, I took some moments to reflect on the political landscape of Ikwuano, looking back through the hands of time. In doing so, I compared the trajectories and performances of our past and present House of Representatives members—both at the State and Federal levels—with those of their colleagues from other constituencies. This reflection left me wondering: are they all sitting in the same legislative Houses and receiving the same allocations?

We all witnessed the massive empowerment initiative carried out by Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, the Speaker, this past December—real empowerment in practical terms. Hundreds of tricycles (keke), motorcycles, and sewing machines were distributed to unemployed youths, enabling them to earn a living and regain dignity.

We have also seen similar initiatives from Hon Amobi  Ogah, and we are anticipating the empowerment program by Hon. Ginger Onwusibe expected this February.

These are the kinds of tangible interventions we long to see replicated in Ikwuano State Constituency and Ikwuano/Umuahia North/South Federal Constituency 

Is this truly the pathway through which we the people of Ikwuano hope to produce a Governor in the foreseeable future?

I ask  this question plainly and without political bias.

In the course of my reflection, one individual stands out in the current political dispensation in Ikwuano.

His name is Chika Ishionwu.

I have never met him personally. On the only occasion our paths crossed, I did not even recognize him, and so I failed to accord him the courtesy he deserved.

Yet, his style of politics continues to impress me. He connects genuinely with the grassroots, and even without access to our collective patrimony, he has consistently demonstrated passion, compassion, responsibility, and a servant-leadership mindset.

His readiness to work and his commitment to service give me the strong conviction that he deserves an opportunity.

He may not belong to the most popular party in the state. Truth be told, APC does not enjoy widespread appeal in the East, though with three governors out of five now in the east apparently my stand is arguable, That said, we must ask ourselves: do we continue making the same mistake of voting party labels instead of capable individuals?

This explains why some previously unpopular candidates who rode the Labour Party wave during the Obi momentum defected shortly after being sworn in—they had little to offer and needed a stronger political foothold.

Even our amiable Governor has traversed multiple parties—APC, APGA, PDP—and currently identifies with the Labour Party, openly acknowledging that tomorrow remains uncertain. This is the true dynamism of politics. It is not desperation; it is often a hunger to serve more effectively and to pursue a broader vision.

I do not know what office Chika Ishionwu intends to contest in the coming election, but I firmly believe he deserves a chance—as long as it is not the governorship, because my Governor’s second tenure remains non-negotiable 

This is my modest advocacy for the advancement of Ala Ikwuano in political discourse. We need deliberate investment in human and social capital development, and that journey begins with reading the handwriting on the wall.

Chika Ishionwu Ugwumba deserves support and goodwill for the future that lies ahead.



Ekwueme is a Political Analyst & Social Affairs Commentator