Ex-Lawmaker Uchendu Faults Timing, Transparency of Osonwa’s ₦2bn Empowerment Programme

The former deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly who represented Ohafia South State Constituency, Ifeanyi Uchendu, has delivered a critical assessment of the empowerment programme by the member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency Honourable Ibe Okwara Osonwa on Thursday, describing the initiative as commendable but poorly timed and lacking transparency.

In a statement, Uchendu acknowledged the programme as a welcome intervention for constituents in Arochukwu and Ohafia Local Government Areas, noting that many beneficiaries have received some relief.

However, he argued that the initiative appears to be a last-minute move that raises “serious concerns” about the lawmaker’s performance over the years.

According to Uchendu, the constituency has long grappled with what he described as ineffective representation, marked by an absence of visible projects, limited government presence, and a lack of meaningful development outcomes.

“For a long time, our people have voiced dissatisfaction over the absence of impactful representation,no visible projects, no meaningful government presence, and no tangible benefits comparable to what is obtainable in other constituencies. Many began to question whether their voices were being heard at all.”

He said many residents had grown increasingly frustrated, questioning whether their interests were being adequately represented at the federal level.

“The general feeling has been one of disappointment,” he stated, adding that despite resources allocated for constituency development, the expected dividends of democracy have largely been absent.

Uchendu also cast doubt on the widely publicized ₦2 billion valuation of the empowerment programme, noting that the figure is being disputed by many constituents who believe the actual worth of the intervention is significantly lower. He warned that such discrepancies risk further eroding public trust.

“While the empowerment programme has brought some relief, the claim of ₦2 billion attached to it is widely disputed, with many believing the actual value falls far below that figure. This further deepens the trust deficit between the people and their representative.”

While congratulating beneficiaries, the former lawmaker urged constituents to look beyond immediate gains and focus on the broader question of accountable governance. He stressed that Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency deserves transparent, effective, and people-oriented representation.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, Uchendu signalled a growing political consciousness among constituents, stating that there is an emerging resolve to “correct the mistake of 2023” by demanding leadership that prioritises the welfare and progress of the people.

Uchendu contested for the Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency seat but lost to Ibe Okwara Osonwa in the 2023 election.