By Emeka Chiaghanam
The race for the Awka North and South Federal Constituency seat gathered fresh momentum at the weekend as businessman and philanthropist, Dr Augustine Azubuike Ekwezor, formally stepped into the contest with a fierce promise to reshape representation in the area and reconnect leadership with ordinary people.
Speaking before members of the grassroots political movement, Anambra Patriots for Soludo (APS), in Awka, the longtime member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, painted a picture of a constituency yearning for stronger leadership, practical development and closer ties between elected officials and the people they claim to serve.
The atmosphere at the gathering reflected more than a routine political declaration. It became a meeting of party loyalists, community mobilisers and supporters who repeatedly echoed the need for a new direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ekwezor, who is seeking the APGA ticket for the House of Representatives, said his ambition was born out of conviction and responsibility rather than personal gain, insisting that the people of Awka North and South could no longer afford ineffective representation at the National Assembly.
Without hiding his disappointment with the current situation, the APGA hopeful argued that the constituency had remained stagnant because those entrusted with leadership failed to deliver meaningful impact.
According to him, the coming election cycle would determine whether APGA retains its political strength and public trust in Anambra State, stressing that the party must present candidates with grassroots acceptance and proven credibility.
He said, “This is not the time for experiments. Our people want leaders they can reach, leaders who understand their struggles and leaders who can attract development. I believe I have prepared myself for that responsibility.”
Ekwezor told the gathering that his focus would revolve around four key sectors which he described as urgent priorities for the constituency — agriculture, security, housing and infrastructure.
He explained that boosting agriculture would not only improve food production but also create jobs for young people across rural communities. On security, he pledged to support initiatives that would protect lives and restore confidence in local communities battling fear and uncertainty.
The aspirant also promised to pursue low-cost housing programmes and push for infrastructure projects capable of improving economic activities and easing movement within the constituency.
Beyond campaign promises, Ekwezor attempted to build his case around what supporters described as his long-standing relationship with grassroots communities. He pointed to his past acts of empowerment, including assistance to youths and housing support for struggling families, saying public office should be used to uplift people rather than enrich politicians.
“My doors have always remained open,” he declared. “Accessibility matters in leadership. The people must not struggle before they can reach their representative.”
He further maintained that his political experience and national connections would help him attract federal presence and opportunities to Awka North and South if elected into the Green Chamber.
The APGA chieftain equally reaffirmed his loyalty to the ruling party in the state, noting that he had remained committed to APGA since joining the platform more than two decades ago.
He praised Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for what he described as transformational projects across Anambra, promising to complement the administration’s development drive through effective legislative representation.
Ekwezor also reserved warm words for Anambra Patriots, the influential grassroots support structure known for political mobilisation and advocacy for accountability in governance.
The group, which boasts hundreds of coordinators across wards in the state, has become increasingly visible in political engagement and voter sensitisation activities.
In a move that drew loud applause from members, the aspirant pledged to build a befitting secretariat for the organisation if given the mandate to represent the constituency.
Leaders of the group openly praised his ambition during the interaction.
Chairman of the organisation, Chief Damian Elekwechi, described APS as a platform committed to promoting responsible leadership and encouraging competent individuals to participate in governance.
According to him, the group places emphasis on discipline, accountability and legislative excellence, especially among leaders expected to work alongside the state government in delivering democratic dividends.
He said Ekwezor’s experience, accessibility and grassroots connection positioned him as a strong contender in the race.
Also speaking at the event, the National Convener of the group and Anambra State Commissioner for Works, Okey Ezeobi, stressed the importance of holding political office holders accountable to campaign promises.
He noted that support groups like APS were created not merely for political celebrations but to sustain public engagement and ensure elected leaders remain answerable to the people after elections.
The meeting attracted a large turnout of party faithful, coordinators and supporters from different communities within the constituency, signalling what observers described as an early build-up to a potentially intense contest ahead of the APGA primaries scheduled for May 23, 2026.
For Ekwezor, however, the battle ahead appears larger than securing a party ticket. His message throughout the gathering remained centred on rebuilding trust between the electorate and those seeking power — a message his supporters believe could resonate strongly across Awka North and South in the months ahead.
