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By Emeka Chiaghanam

 

Group says it will not endorse candidates but promote accountability and integrity 

Anambra Patriots has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting credible and accountable leadership, as the Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Pius Okoye, formally declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives.

The declaration was made during an interactive session held at the Anambra Patriots secretariat in Awka, where members of the association received Hon. Okoye, who currently represents Awka South II Constituency in the state assembly.

Convener of the association, Arch Okey Ezeobi, said the group would continue to stand firmly for integrity, transparency and responsible governance. He explained that Anambra Patriots remains an independent body, guided strictly by principles and not influenced by individuals, political parties or vested interests.

According to him, the core mission of the association is to promote leadership anchored on character, vision and service to the people of Anambra State.

“Our focus is to promote leaders who are accountable and committed to real development,” he said. “We are not here to serve any individual or group. We will continue to engage stakeholders, encourage dialogue and support ideas that can move Anambra State forward in a sustainable way.”

Chairman of the group, Ozo Damian Ejiamatu, also stressed that Anambra Patriots does not exist to determine who gets political office, but rather to shape public opinion in favour of credible and capable individuals.

He warned against what he described as a growing trend of people seeking political positions without adequate preparation, clear plans or proven track records.

“Leadership is not something people should rush into without proper experience and vision,” he said. “Governance requires competence, discipline and a genuine commitment to public service.”

Ozo Ejiamatu further criticised the rising cost of elections and the desperation that often accompanies political contests. He cautioned against aspirants borrowing heavily or selling personal assets just to fund their campaigns.

“Some people throw their weight around, borrow money, or even sell their lands and assets just to contest elections,” he said. “We do not support such actions. If someone has to sell what they own just to contest, it raises serious concerns and reflects the wrong motivation for public office.”

During the meeting, Hon Okoye told members that his record in office clearly demonstrates his commitment to service and development. He said his involvement in politics has always been driven by a desire to improve the welfare and living standards of the people.

“I have always supported people, even before I joined politics,” he said. “My goal has never been personal gain, but to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”

He noted that his projects and interventions have reached communities across his constituency, adding that they are designed to deliver long-term and generational benefits.

Hon. Okoye also recalled that at the beginning of his political journey, he sought divine guidance, stating that he only desired electoral success if it would enable him to positively impact lives—an outcome he believes has been realised.

Looking ahead, he said he would seek the ticket of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the primary election scheduled for 23 May 2026. He expressed confidence in his chances and pledged to expand his developmental efforts if elected to represent Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency at the national level.

He assured members that the level of representation currently experienced in Awka South II would not only be sustained but significantly expanded.

“Whatever my constituency has benefited will be multiplied many times over,” he said, adding that many of his projects have been executed using personal resources.

Hon. Okoye also stressed the importance of close engagement between elected officials and the people, noting that true representation is about understanding the needs of constituents and responding effectively.

He urged voters to be careful in their choices, warning against electing the wrong candidates, and appealed for support from the party primaries through to the general election.

Two coordinators of Anambra Patriots, Hon. Charles Okeke and Hon. Samuel Okeke, also spoke in support of Hon. Okoye. They described him as a tested and trusted leader with a proven record of performance, integrity and compassion.

They urged constituents across Awka North and Awka South to rally behind his ambition, expressing confidence that he has the capacity to deliver even greater results at the federal level.