By Chinedum Treasure
The Labour Party (LP) senatorial candidate for Anambra Central in the 2027 general election, Ven. Tochukwu Ikezue, has pledged to promote quality representation, job creation and youth empowerment if elected, promising to replicate the governance model of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, in his constituency.
Ikezue gave the assurance during an engagement with Labour Party stakeholders in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, where he also promised not to betray the confidence of the electorate, citing his clerical background and what he described as a divine mandate.
The candidate praised Otti’s performance in Abia State, expressing confidence that a similar approach to governance could be pursued in Anambra Central through effective representation and people-oriented initiatives.
Accompanied by the Labour Party’s House of Representatives candidate for Anaocha, Njikoka and Dunukofia Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Mary Obiokoye, Ikezue described her as a dependable ally with whom he hoped to work towards improving the welfare of the people.
He said his decision to contest the election was driven by his desire to serve, adding that his emergence as the party’s candidate followed his contributions towards restoring peace and unity within the party during a period of internal crisis.
“One thing I asked God when I got the conviction to contest this election is people that will support me with all humility and sincerity. God answered the prayers by not only giving me Labour Party as a platform, but also someone like Hon. Dr. Mary Obiokoye,” he said.
Acknowledging that he might not match some of his political opponents in financial resources, Ikezue said he was relying on his faith, integrity and commitment to public service.
“I’m just a clergyman. But I prayed God to help me the same way He helped David because my rivals are all Goliaths,” he added.
The LP candidate expressed concern over the hardship confronting Nigerians, particularly the difficulties young graduates face in securing employment. He pledged to prioritise employment opportunities and empowerment programmes for women and youths if elected.
According to him, his experience as a priest in Abuja has exposed him to the challenges confronting unemployed graduates, some of whom have resorted to commercial motorcycle and tricycle operations to earn a living.
He alleged that some politicians demand large sums of money from job seekers who approach them for assistance, insisting that public office should be used to serve the people rather than exploit their needs.
“What differentiates me from them is my position as a priest and the Bible which I carry with dignity. I know what is at stake before me is enormous. I can’t afford to fail God, the Church and the entire people of Anambra Central, if you elect me as your senator,” he said.
Ikezue further cited Otti’s administration in Abia State as an example he hoped to emulate, arguing that leadership should be measured by its impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.
He also outlined a proposed voting arrangement involving Labour Party candidates and Peter Obi, who is associated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), urging supporters to consider his candidacy alongside that of Obi and Obiokoye.
“If you vote for Peter Obi for President under NDC, then vote for me for Senate and Hon. Mary Obiokoye as House of Reps under LP. What Otti is doing in Abia we’ll replicate in Anambra Central,” he said.
Obiokoye Promises Legislative Action, Development Projects
Also speaking, the Labour Party’s House of Representatives candidate for Anaocha, Njikoka and Dunukofia Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Mary Obiokoye, described her candidacy as a mission to rescue and restore the dignity of the people through legislative action and development projects.
She said she would focus on making laws that improve the welfare of her constituents and pursuing initiatives to attract development to the area.
“We’re not going to Abuja to sleep or make noise. Instead, we’re going to make laws that will better the lots of our people. We’re also going to bring back what belongs to us,” Obiokoye said.
Citing her 46 years of experience in educational administration, she expressed confidence in her ability to manage people and resources effectively and deliver results if elected.
Obiokoye also urged party members and supporters to obtain and safeguard their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing the importance of participating in the 2027 general election.
She expressed optimism that voters would have an opportunity to make their choices count, urging them to remain vigilant and vote wisely on election day.
“The time to change the story is now, and the power is in our PVC. We must protect and guard it jealously and ensure we vote wisely on election day. Your vote will definitely count this time around,” she added.
Tags: #AnambraCentral2027 #LabourParty #AlexOtti
