Umuahia Central: Prince Mayor Ukaegbu Wins APC Ticket, Commits to Grassroots Representation

Prince Mayor Ukaegbu has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Umuahia Central State Constituency, expressing gratitude to party members and pledging to bridge the growing gap between leadership and the people.

Speaking shortly after being declared winner, Ukaegbu described the election process as peaceful, transparent, and reflective of the overwhelming support he enjoys within the constituency.

“I’m happy and very excited. The support was massive. I thank God for the grace,” he said.

He commended the conduct of the primary election, describing it as free, fair, and peaceful under the Option A4 system.

“It was quite peaceful, free and fair. You can see the videos online, the crowd, the people queuing behind me, and the support from my people. In fact, I feel very loved,” he added.

Explaining his decision to contest, Ukaegbu said the people of Umuahia Central deserve better representation, especially the youth whom he believes have been neglected over the years.

“If you stay in Umuahia Central, we’ve had better representation than what the people have now. There is a gap, a huge gap. The youth are left behind,” he stated.

According to him, the constituency currently lacks inclusive governance and meaningful collaboration with stakeholders, a situation he intends to change if elected in 2027.

“I’m going to provide inclusive representation where every constituent and every community within Umuahia Central will feel part of my representation. I will go to the people, connect with them, listen to them, and work with stakeholders, the youth, and everybody,” he said.

Ukaegbu also outlined youth empowerment and digital skills acquisition as key priorities of his proposed representation.

“We’ve not even had any serious skill acquisition programme where youths are empowered with 21st-century IT skills. Today, people work remotely and earn a living through skills like graphic design and video editing, which can be learned in just a few months. These are the kinds of ideas that are lacking,” he noted.

He emphasised that his mission is to bridge the developmental and representation gap within the constituency.

“I’m going to bridge this gap,” he affirmed.

The APC candidate further praised party leaders in Abia State for what he described as exemplary leadership and support throughout the primary process.

He specifically acknowledged the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, alongside other APC stakeholders including Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji, and Chief Charles Ogbonnaya (Evuluogu Ibeku).

“Everyone who knew what APC in Abia State was before and what we have today will agree that our party is now somewhere to belong. The leaders played exemplary roles, and I’m thankful to all of them and to the party members for believing in me and giving me their mandate,” he said.

Addressing constituents directly, Ukaegbu appealed for their continued support ahead of the 2027 elections.

“To the people of Umuahia Central, I am your son. Many of you have known me from childhood, and I believe I will not disappoint you if allowed to serve,” he said.