From Felix Ikem, Nsukka
Chief Sam Ekwueme, the candidate of All Progressive Congress (APC) in Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani Federal Constituency of Enugu State says he is contesting to represent his people in order to correct neglect his constituency has suffered in the past twenty four years.
Ekwueme said this on Saturday at Ogbade, the headquarters of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area while speaking with newsmen shortly after traditional rulers in the area blessed and prayed for his victory in 2023 general elections.
He said his constituency had nothing to show in terms of democracy dividends in the past twenty four years candidates of People Democratic Party (PDP) have been representing the constituency.
“I am here today at the Igbo-Etiti LG headquarters to consult with the traditional rulers from the area as well as to inform them about my ambition to represent the good people of Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani federal constituency at the National assembly under the platform of APC, while seeking their support, prayers and blessings.
“The constituents are not happy with the ruling people democratic party in the state especially the way they neglected the area for the past 24 years without any physical projects and other dividends of democracy to show for, yet we have a state governor and someone who is representing the constituency at the National assembly.
“I’m in the race to reignite the people’s believe in quality representation and good governance, we cannot continue to give or take excuse for failure and poor representation, our people need development, empowerment, good rural, urban road networks, among other things,” he said.
Chief Ekwueme, who is also a former Senior Special Assistant to Hon Clement Agba, Minister of State for Budget and National Planning said that he attracted the construction and asphalting of Nsukka-Lejja-Aku 11.5km link road, constructed solar-powered borehole in Aku community.
Speaking further, Ekwueme said that if elected that his representation would be based on effective feedback through periodic town hall meetings, functional constituency office, youth and women empowerment and capacity building, community projects and people oriented lawmaking.
While expressing his confidence of emerging victorious in the general election, he said that his people knew him very well and had seen what he did even as an aide to s minister and would want him to go and represent them.
“My people have demonstrated their trust, love and total support to my candidature, that is to tell you that they want change, this time around it is not going to be about party, is going to be about the candidate’s credibility and track records, what he or she can do or have done for the people in the past will definitely play a vital role this time around,” he said.
HRH Igwe Michael Odoh, the Chairman of Igbo-Etiti LG Traditional Rulers Council while receiving Ekwueme commended him for his courage to contest for the elective position, adding that the people of the area will choose who will represent them through their votes.
The royal fathers blessed and prayed for the APC candidate, even as they wished him success in the general election.