A philanthropist, industrialist, and community employer, Akai Egwuonwu has officially announced his candidacy for the forthcoming Anambra South senatorial by-election under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
The declaration took place at his home in Amichi, located in the Nnewi South Local Government Area, and was attended by APGA leaders and stakeholders from all seven local government areas within the Anambra South district.
The call for representation comes in the wake of the passing of former Senator, Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah on July 27, 2024, leaving the Anambra South Senatorial Zone unrepresented in the National Assembly for over three months.
Speaking during the declaration, Chief Egwuonwu, the Chairman/CEO of Zara Stores Ltd., and MD/CEO of Anambra Rice Mill Ltd. (makers of Anambra Rice and Stine Rice), appealed for the support of APGA across the seven LGAs (Ekwusigo, Nnewi North and Nnewi South, Ihiala, Orumba North and South, Aguata), arguing that it is just for Nnewi South, part of the Nnewi political faction, to have representation in the Senate.
Three Point Agenda
Outlining his legislative agenda, Chief Egwuonwu emphasised three main priorities he would pursue if elected.
First on his list is security; he acknowledged the unique security challenges facing Anambra South and pledged to tackle them decisively, drawing on the legacy of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. “I will fulfil Ubah’s dream of securing our zone by addressing insecurity at its roots and utilising the latest security technology he introduced before his passing,” he stated.
Secondly, Chief Egwuonwu said he would foster the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through grants and funding options, inspired by successful support schemes in the UK.
He articulated the importance of aiding local business owners as a fundamental aspect of his senatorial agenda.
Finally, he vowed to utilise all legislative tools available—motions, bills, and oversight functions—to advocate for the interests of his constituents effectively.
Former state Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Chief Maja Umeh, who is also a member of the APGA Board of Trustees, called for fairness and inclusivity in the upcoming by-election, highlighting the need for balanced federal representation across the Anambra South LGAs.
“The current political landscape is skewed. While other LGAs enjoy federal representation, Nnewi South has been left in the shadows,” he remarked.
Stakeholders from Nnewi South, including Egwuoyibo Okoye, Kingsley Iruba, and Van George Ezeogidi, emphasised the need for equity, noting that other local government areas have representation in the House of Representatives or the Senate, while Nnewi South has been overlooked.
They urged all political parties and community leaders to support their quest for fair representation, asserting that equity is essential to a thriving democracy.
As preparations for the by-election progress, the stakeholders from Nnewi South are determined to ensure their voices are heard in the quest for equitable political representation.
Confidence Okwuchi
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