“I’m Not Afraid of a Rematch” – Obi Aguocha Dares Chinedum Orji

The member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Honourable Obi Aguocha, has stated that he is not afraid to contest against Engr Chinedum Orji, the former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, asserting that he defeated him at the polls in the previous election.

Speaking to journalists at his country home on Tuesday, he remarked that he had no issues with the former Speaker as he is a friend but still an aspirant and not yet the All Progressives Congress candidate for the seat.

“He’s still an aspirant. There are many people who have expressed interest alongside him in the APC. Once they conclude that contest, then we can speak. I have been on this journey with him before; he also emerged as the candidate of the PDP in the last election, so this will be our second journey. We will present our record to the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency and let them decide.”

He maintained that he respects the former Speaker and other aspirants and would not undermine them. He added that the constituents understand the principles of representation and service.

Honourable Aguocha noted that his service extends beyond his constituents to include all Igbos, citing cases of stranded Igbos whose issues he has taken up within the justice sector and constitutional matters.

Obi Aguocha mentioned that his foremost projects involve aiding the people and providing them with the gift of education. “Mine is a lifetime of empowerment. I have helped about 700 students from indigent homes to access education. I am building homes for indigent women and restoring the dignity of their families. We will conduct validation exercises in the upcoming weeks.”

Describing his impact, he highlighted advocacy, especially on constitutional issues, as very important. “Advocacy is very important to me. Secondly, it’s how you utilise your legislative power to help people.”

On the leadership crisis within the Labour Party and rumours of defection, Honourable Aguocha stated that he remains with the Labour Party and has no plans to defect, reaffirming that Senator Nenadi Usman is the recognised National Chairman, with Senator Darlington Nwokocha serving as the National Secretary.

He affirmed that even Governor Alex Otti is not defecting but is running under the Labour Party.

“We are not shifting ground. We are not moving to ADC, APC, or any other party. We have a leadership recognised by INEC, led by Senator Nenadi Usman. For me, I’m a Labour man for life.”

Regarding the aspiration of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu, he maintained that every citizen has the right to vote and be voted for.

“It is his right to seek election, whether as a Lawmaker or a Governor, but we differ on the opposition’s choice. Governor Alex Otti has a covenant with Abians, and they can see the good works he has done. I believe that Governor Alex Otti should be voted for as he has done exceedingly well in the governance of the State.”

He mentioned that the impactful work of the Governor led the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency to organise a grand civic reception to show their appreciation for his good deeds. He dismissed the criticisms as baseless, asserting that the Governor has done well for the people of the State, but also noted that God grants power to whom He wills.

On legislative duties, Honourable Aguocha revealed that he sponsored a bill in the House to convert Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, into a conventional university. He revealed that the bill has passed the first, second, and third readings.

“MOUAU will now become a Federal University, and the Federal Medical Centre at Oboro will be designated as a teaching hospital. When the House resumes seating, it will be sent to the Senate.”

He also mentioned that he has installed about 2,500 solar lights in his constituency and built homes for indigent women, alongside empowering students in tertiary institutions through education.