By Emeka Chiaghanam
A quiet gathering with a loud message
There was no noise of a campaign rally. No music blaring through speakers. No colourful banners lining the streets. Yet inside a modest hall at the Anambra Patriots secretariat in Awka, a different kind of political moment was taking shape—quiet, measured, but deeply significant.
It was not a gathering built on spectacle. It was one built on conversation. A meeting where ideas, values and expectations carried more weight than applause.
Ezeobi’s steady call for values over
politics
At the centre of it all was Arch Okey Ezeobi, Convener of Anambra Patriots. Calm and deliberate, he spoke about what he believes is missing in today’s politics—credibility.
“This association stands on principles,” he said. “We are not here to serve any individual or political interest. Our duty is to protect values and ensure that only credible voices are encouraged.”
His message was simple but firm: leadership must return to integrity, vision and service.
Growing concern over who seeks power
That concern was echoed by Chairman Ozo Damian Ejiamatu, who spoke more directly about the changing nature of politics.
He warned that too many people now seek office without preparation, clear plans or a sense of responsibility.
“Leadership is not something people should wake up and decide overnight,” he said. “It requires vision, discipline and a true commitment to public service.”
The rising cost of ambition
Ozo Ejiamatu’s strongest remarks focused on money in politics. He criticised the growing trend of excessive spending and desperation among aspirants.
He spoke of candidates borrowing heavily or even selling personal assets just to contest elections—an approach he described as dangerous.
“If someone has to sell their assets just to contest, then something is wrong,” he said. “Public office is not an investment you recover.”
A familiar figure steps forward
Then came the moment that drew attention—Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Pius Okoye addressing the gathering.
His presence was steady rather than dramatic. As Deputy Speaker, he already holds influence, but this appearance signalled a new ambition.
He spoke reflectively, sharing his journey into politics and his long-standing commitment to helping people.
“I did not come into politics to enrich myself,” he said. “I have always tried to support people and improve lives.”
From local impact to broader ambition
Hon. Okoye pointed to his work in Awka South II, noting that his projects have reached communities across the constituency.
He described his efforts as focused on long-term impact, not short-term recognition. For him, representation means staying close to the people and understanding their needs.
With that, he declared his intention to contest for the Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency seat.
His promise was measured—what has been done will be
expanded.
“Whatever has been achieved will grow even more,” he assured.
Support built on experience, not promises
As he finished, support came from within the room.
Coordinator Charles Okeke described him as a tested leader whose performance speaks clearly.
Samuel Okeke highlighted his compassion, noting that his
connection with people sets him apart.
Together, their remarks painted a picture of a candidate defined more by action than words.
A deeper reflection on leadership
Yet beyond the endorsements, the meeting revealed something
more meaningful.
It reflected a quiet struggle in local politics—the tension between ambition and accountability, between influence and integrity.
In that small hall in Awka, one message stood out:
leadership must mean more than seeking office.
And as the political season approaches, the real question is
whether that message will shape the choices ahead.
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