Abia workers welfare isn't Otti’s priority, if not he would have been paying then salary Wage Award like other states to cushion the harsh economic realities of subsidy removal. He would have asked Absu workers to forfeit their entitlements just like he did to pensioners.

*Pension payment isn't Otti’s priority, if not he wouldn't have claimed he CLEARED 9 YEARS ARREARS, when all he did was clear the 10months he (Otti) accumulated under his government.

*Poor masses welfare isn't Otti’s priority, if not keke operators and mini bus drivers wouldn't be forced to pay monthly for their daily ticketing. N50k Recertification of each title document won't be forced on already impoverished citizens.

*Aba manufacturing isn't Otti’s priority, if not he would have travelled to Hungary with some aba shoemakers; promote made-in-Aba and revive the Abia owned ENASCO shoe manufacturing company which has been left to rot with all standard shoe manufacturing equipment and power generator in there.

*Health isn't Otti’s priority, if not the Aba specialist Hospital would have been in use and we would have seen Hospitals built with the tens of billions claimed under Q1 budget report of 2024.

*Education isn't Otti's priority, if not just like we have seen Enugu model schools done by Mr. Peter Mbah, we would have also seen schools built with N4.6billion in media frenzy New Abia by Mr. Alex Otti.

*Otti's priority is in contracting; where nobody knows cost of any contract apart from N30billion for 5.9klm PH road. Nobody knows the any due process. Nobody has seen any Newspaper publicised advert for contract tender by Abia government. Nobody knows how much ordinary addition of road shoulders on Ossah cost Abia tax payers but the worry that it has consumed millions of billions because ordinary 4-lane was Christianed 6-LANES 😆 🤣 😂. JAAC building that was 99% completed only God knows how much that was claimed.

*If not that we all know that Ariaria market was remodelled under Dr. Ikpeazu’s administration, who knows what quarterly budget performance report would have exposed.

*EMPLOYMENT would have been Mr. Otti’s Government priority if it will revive the Abia owned ENASCO shoe manufacturing company, the specialist Hospital in Aba and promote Abia's Small and medium scale manufacturing.

*Keeping it honest...

~ Eric Ikwuagwu

*Only fools and brain dead praise singers will continue to justify New Abia government negligence of workers welfare by blaming previous administration as reason Otti has vehemently refused to pay subsidy removal Wage Award despite tens of billions he (Otti) receives monthly from the enhanced FAAC and JAAC allocations.

*REVENUE: 9-MONTHS UNDER OTTI’S GOVERNMENT:

■FAAC - N77.7 Billion
■JAAC- N52.1 Billion

●STATE MONTHLY WAGE BILL - N2Billion
●LOCAL GOVT. WAGE BILL - N2Billion
(Source of data Abia State government's website abiastate.gov.ng/annual-budgets/ and Federal ministry of finance website on FAAC shared to states)

*REVENUE: 9-MONTHS SAME PERIOD UNDER IKPEAZU'S ADMINISTRATION:

■FAAC- N20. 7Billion
■JAAC- N17.1Billion

●STATE MONTHLY WAGE BILL- N2.6Billion
●LOCAL GOVT. - N2.3Bllion.

(Data source: Abia State government official website)

*ANALYSIS (Facts are sacred): It can be clearly seen that while Mr. Otti receives more in FAAC and JAAC allocations; he pays lesser to both state and local government workers, WHEREAS, same period under Dr. Ikpeazu’s administration, Dr. Ikpeazu received lesser in FAAC and JAAC but paid higher to both state and local government workers.

CONCLUSION: It is an incontrovertible fact based on the above empirical data that Otti's wage bill dropped because over 15,000 poor Abia workers have been sacked under him and many nolonger receive salaries because of glitches in online verification which isn't any fault of theirs but are now tagged GHOST WORKERS.

POSER: How has inflation and devaluation of the naira affected Otti's administration's ability to perform when it pays lesser to workers but receives huge revenue from Federal government?.

*What is stopping Otti's government from paying monthly Wage Award to Abia workers?

*Abia workers are dying silently under the harsh economic climate while their Governor's office is topping nationwide government house chart, as number one in government house feeding.

*Abia workers are asked to wait for new a minimum wage to be adopted while other Governors who are spending less on feeding are paying their workers wage award and still waiting to impliment new minimum wage whenever it will be signed into law.

*What stops Otti from paying Wage Award while waiting for new minimum wage ?

*Abia workers current economic situation is like the case of Senator Adam Oshiomole's proverbial he-goat. When the owner is doing well, the he-goat is sacrificed for thanksgiving and when things are not going well the he-goat is sacrificed to appease the gods for this to improve.

Keeping it honest...

@ORACLE.

* *Did you know that the current Abia government has received in excess of N300billion in total receipts under 11 months?*

*Breakdown of the N300billion received: N160billion total receipts of FAAC and FAAC, excluding monthly IGR. Plus N145billion from loans. N100billion from Access bank and N45billion ftom Union bank= N145billion.
Total receipts N160billion + N145billion= N305billion.

*Did you know that Abia government has not increased workers salary or pay wage award or clear arrears?. Therefore, the argument of inflation doesn't hold water as it is only capital expenditure (contractors with strange contract costs) and recurrent expenditure associated with the Governor (servicing his office and his security vote) that have not stagnated but rather have been jacked-up exponentially.

*Did you know that the total receipts in excess of N300billion received by this Abia government within its 11months, equals 3 years annual budget of the Abia government from 2015 to 2017.?

*Many are yet to understand and appreciate the massive funds available to this government compared to previous administrations; which must be reflected on workers welfare and their salary obligations but remained a mirage till date.

*No inflation variation will make it statistically logical to compare 11-months total receipts of above N300billion with 3 years of previous administration.

● *In 2015, Abia annual budget = N102billion.*
● *2016, Abia annual budget = N96billion.*
● *2017, Abia annual budget = N102billion.*
*(For the entire 3years= N300bliion)* but Otti's government received same amount just under 11-months.

*Flowing from above premise of 11-months revenue of new Abia government = 3 years of previous administration, even with salary and other recurrent expenditure stagnated (except those directly related to the Governor); the present government of Abia state has performed abysmally low in terms of deliverables to Abians in relation to the huge funds at its disposal.

*No single new project has been embarked upon; no fresh road construction from the scratch (only patching of old roads or adding shoulders on both sides of existing roads); no new hospitals built (only repainting and adding wall tiles); no single new building (putting finishing touches on JAAC building or renovation); workers salary stagnated (no promotion, no arrears paid, no wage award added); Local government area councils are nothing to write home about.

Can Abians ask where the total receipts in excess of N300billion received by the new Abia State under 11-months were channelled into?

Keeping it honest....

Eric Ikwuagwu

Charity Uwakwe

As the long awaited February 25 general election crawls in, in a fraction of five days, there has been an influx of many notable support groups and Social-cultural organisations, striving to identify with Rep. Sam Onuigbo, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for Abia Central Senatorial District

The groups restated that their choice of candidate to represent them at the Red Chambers remained Rep. Sam Onuigbo who is the incumbent member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency of Abia State, recounting on the magnanimous nature of the latter, coupled with his extant effective representation at the Green Chambers.

Speaking yesterday, on behalf of the Executives, the Coordinator of Great Movement, Mr. Steve reiterated that their decision and choice of Odozio-Obodo was borne out of their zeal to have him replicate his existing good deeds at the Senate.

“We have come to identify with the right person to represent us at the Senate, Rep. Sam Onuigbo, he is the right person to go to Senate. We the members of Great Movement have chosen him so that he can to Abuja and do for us again, what he has done at the House of Representatives.

Rep. Sam Onuigbo in a meeting with representatives of Great Movement, Umuahia.
Rep. Sam Onuigbo in a meeting with representatives of Great Movement, Umuahia.

He, therefore, implored other support groups across the state to key in and ensure that Onuigbo is elected, saying he is the most credible candidate to Amelia their suffering.

“I encourage others to follow suit and vote Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo because he will represent us well and repeat what he has done at the Federal House of Representatives.

Responding, Onuigbo amidst ecstasy and optimism, charged the group not to relent in their quest to enthrone good governance, noting that “we are working as a team and the end result shall be a resounding victory.

“If you carefully observe the things I’ve been able to do as the representative of great Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, then you’ll be encouraged to say we know this man and we know what he’s capable of doing. Therefore, we’re going to support him, not just by ourselves but we’re going to mobilize people and tell them that on Saturday, once you are given the ballot paper, you vote APC because know who represents that Party. Tell them that he’s a man you know, you have his record and you’ve read about him. You see through him, he’s transparent, is it not so?

He, therefore, urged the Executives of Great Movement to sensitive people in their neighborhood and encourage one another to endeavour to cast their votes in his favour on the D-Day.

“Also, ensure that your votes are protected. So, that’s my only plea, help me mobilize people; you know Odozio-Obodo and you know what he's capable of doing”, he said, reminding them of his legacy achievements even as an incumbent Representative, with focus on the rehabilitation of Ikwuano-Umuahia/Ikot-Ekpene road, which had defied all efforts by past administrations, among others.

“Tell them that I have successfully facilitated the rehabilitation of the road from Ikwuano/Umuahia, leading to Ikot-Ekpene and so many other things which you people are aware of including schools. I think I have done well over ten to eleven blocks of classrooms in all the clans that make up Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State,as well as completed erosion control projects across the Constituency which are all verifiable.”

Meanwhile, the Coordinator of Great Movement told (famous reporters) that the group had bluntly turned down pressures from several other candidates, among whom was Col. Austin Akobundu, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, who had sought for their support.

Hear him: “Col. Akobundu, the PDP candidate has approached us for about three times to support him but we told him no, we will not support him. Our choice of candidate is Sam Onuigbo and we believe that Onuigbo can give us a better representation as he has been doing.

“One Akobundu’s PA’s has called me to use my group and support his principal but I said no to him. And I told him that this is the person I want, Rep. Sam Onuigbo and I blocked him.

Earlier, the Executives of Ikenga Liberation Movement, (ILM), who stormed Onuigbo’s home, in Umuahia, reiterated their unalloyed support for Odozi-Obodo, stressing their commitment to work with and for him, in order to ensure his victorious emergence at the polls.

“We are members of Ikenga liberation movement, Umuahia. We’re numerous in number. But these are our Executives. We are here to say that we love you and it’s you we’re sending to represent us at the Senate because we know your antecedents.

“We have come here to identify with you, because we love you. We have heard about your good works and we know you will continue. The movement is here to say that you are our incoming Senator. Let him who likes it take it or not.
We’re here to tell you we love you and that we are ready to work for you. All you have to do is to relegate whatever assignment and consider it done’, they said as they prayed for God to intervene in the favour of Odozio-Obodo.

Rep. Sam Onuigbo flanked by Executives of Ikenga Liberation Movement.

Responding, Onuigbo thanked the group and reminded them of their obvious capabilities in facilitating the success of a candidate.

“I know your capacity. And I welcome you. I’m here because I want to be here with you.
I know your aim of coming is not to correct money rather to plant so as to be parts of the struggle and at the same time reap from the proceeds.

The incumbent House of Representatives member who represented the South-East in the formation of the new electoral law, expressed utter confidence in the group towards enhancing the successful emergence of credible candidates.

“I know you are able to multiply in your number. So, because of your confidence in me, I implore you to talk to others, at least you know Odozi-Obodo. So, kindly talk to others. Yes, we shall co-operate with you. Whoever labours must reap.

“This is not pick and drop politics. Rather let’s work together to actualise this project. Explain to others and do not allow anyone deceive or mislead you.

Also, electorates at one of the strategic Polling Units in Ikwuano pledged their unreserved support for the APC candidate, admitting to what he described as “his impeccable character” as exhibited by the latter in all of the offices he had served up until the present.

Speaking on behalf of the people, the spokesperson for the group, (name withheld), who described Onuigbo as a Technocrat other than a regular Politician, assured that the latter would get the bulkiest votes from the polling unit.

“Chief Onuigbo, you’re too much; at least I’ve known you before now and I’ve come across you in several ways. And I must say that there’s no in what you have just said to us here this evening, that’s what you are.
Continuing, the spokesperson who commended Onuigbo for redefining representation within his stay in office, added that; “But, one thing I want you to have at the back of your mind is that, you are not dealing with touts here, we’re responsible men and women. We all have our PVCs. So, I’m assuring you that this environment, mark my words, it is where you will get the highest votes. Something is about to hit. Let me not count your past achievements because we’re now facing present and we pray by the special grace of God, you shall complete any of the uncompleted projects as you are elected into the office of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
You’re going!”, He declared.

#ClimateChangeAct
#EffectiveRepresentation
#RedefiningEffectiveRepresentation
#VoteRep.SamOnuigbo
#voteapc4abiacentral

The gospel of Odozi Obodo preceded Rep. Sam Onuigbo, the Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, before his arrival at Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State, and the people of Osisioma Ngwa were eager to keep spreading this gospel like wildfire on meeting Rep. Sam Onuigbo.

In a series of town hall meetings held across the length and breadth of Osisioma Local Government Area, Rep. Sam Onuigbo interacted with the masses, giving account of his stewardship as the member representing the great people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

Firstly, Rep. Onuigbo and his campaign team, in the company of Comr. Uwaoma Akomas, the APC State House of Assembly candidate for Osisioma Ngwa South, pulled up at World Bank Housing Estate, where he had a fruitful interaction with the people, taking stock of their challenges, and pleading for their support which would place him in a strategic position to help solve these challenges.

Residents who spoke commended Rep. Onuigbo for his sterling qualities, and wholeheartedly endorsed his senatorial bid.

Evang. Augustine Ibeabuchi, a resident, confessed that he had seen some of the projects in Rep. Onuigbo’s scorecard, but never knew who facilitated them until now.

“I and my colleagues are very happy that you came, and having listened to you, I can assure that you have our full support. All my life I’ve been seeing the same breed of politicians, but you are a different breed of politician. You are the type of leader that we have been missing and need at this critical point,” he said.

“You are a good man. Thank you for coming. Your coming today has raised a movement. Now relax and watch this movement spread like fire. We are strongly behind you,” said another resident, Sir Samuel Enemuo.

“My brother, this God that brought you here will carry you to the Senate and beyond. The God that started it will finish it. Remain the way you are and let God carry you. You have found your way into our hearts,” added an emotional Hon. Love Nnamani.

Next stop was at Umuode, where the people enthusiastically welcomed Rep Onuigbo. They assured him of their massive support, praying that God will lead him and the people of Abia Central to a glorious victory.

Moving on, the show of love and acceptance at Okpu Umuobo was huge. They danced with joy and hope, singing “it is best we follow Onuigbo.”

The tour came to a climax, as Rep. Sam Onuigbo met with Osisioma Ngwa Non-Indigenes Association.

“I would like to get your assistance in mobilizing people to go and help us win,” he told them.

The Osisioma Ngwa Non-Indigenes Association, having listened to and assessed Rep. Onuigbo’s stewardship, agreed to massively canvas for Rep. Onuigbo, assuring him that they have become stakeholders in the Odozi Obodo 2023 project, and would do all in their capacity to help him win.

“We are going to go to every nook and cranny of Osisioma Ngwa to tell them that we have seen the Messiah. We the Non-Indigenes make up the larger population of Osisioma Ngwa, and we are assuring you that as long as we still dwell here, you will get our unalloyed support,” declared the Chairman, Mr. Uchechukwu Onyejekwe, on behalf of the Association.

“You will get my support because you have proven that you are a good man, and that you have the experience and capacity to deliver on the mandate given to you,” said Mr Austin Dike, a member.

“While I go out to win more souls for you, there are six card-carrying members in my household. Consider these six votes as your sure votes,” promised another member, Sir. Prof. Jerry Amarikwa.

Telling an inspiring and emotional story of his climb out of obscurity, Rep. Onuigbo recalled his humble beginnings as a village boy in Obuohia Ibere:

“As a young boy, I was an intelligent student who had just passed his exams but couldn’t continue my studies due to lack of funds. But grace found me, walking me through the process of continuing my education, working as a school teacher, an auto-parts dealer, a technocrat at the United States Embassy, a Special Adviser to the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, and presently the lawmaker representing my federal constituency at the National Assembly. All these experiences have taught me to have trust in God and the process.”

“It also is my motivation for going into public service. As a matter of fact, I have been a community worker even before I became a public servant. When I was young, access to a secondary school was difficult. The experience of walking kilometers from my village in Obuohia Ibere to Ndoro to attend secondary school made me pledge that if God places me in a position of authority, one of the very first things I’ll do is to build a secondary school in my community, and I’m happy that I was able to achieve that. And because of my love for education, I have continued to facilitate the construction of several blocks of classrooms across my constituency, and assisting financially challenged students to push through their education.,” he said.

He went on to list several milestone achievements of his representation of the great people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency to include the ongoing total reconstruction of the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Federal Road which used to be a nightmare, massive erosion control projects at Umuopara and Okwe, a massive skills acquisition center at Ubakala, Umuahia South, and the training and empowerment of thousands of women and youths from Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency who are now economically self-sustained.

Other projects in the pipeline which have been designed, approved, and awaiting to be awarded are the Obuohia/Nkárí federal road, which he said will reduce journeying to Calabar from Abia State by one hour; the Abia State Federal Secretariat and a road from Amachara to Umudike which will have a flyover and proper dualization.

“I did some of these projects when I was in the opposition, and I have continued to perform as a member of the All Progressives Congress. This shows that performance is not about the party, but about the person.”

“I have come to seek your support to help me continue to provide quality leadership to the people. I desire to replicate and surpass in Abia Central the success that we have achieved in Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency,” he told the people.

The Nigerian Auto Technician Association (NATA) Osisioma Ngwa Chapter and Youths of the Bible Believing Mission has declared their explicit support for the Abia Central Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Rep. Sam Onuigbo, describing him as the Lord’s chosen one whose emergence has brought hope to the people, going on to endorse him as their Senatorial Candidate for Abia Central Senatorial District.

This was after Rep. Sam Onuigbo, who is also the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, had an empathic deliberation with them.

Explaining the need to enthrone good governance, Rep. Onuigbo said: “I was part of the technical committee that worked on the new Electoral Act, and the work we did has empowered you to choose credible leaders who would represent you.”

“I want to represent you because I want to continue to redefine representation, moving it from what it used to be, to using the position given to me by the people to make positive impacts in the lives of those whom I represent,” he stated.

Furthermore, he explained that his style of representation is anchored on the principles of EAR, with “E” standing for effectiveness on the floor of the National Assembly and committees, and engaging with MDAs in order to bring dividends of democracy to his constituents; “A" for accessibility, which means that those whom he represents should be able to access him at anytime and place; and “R” for responsiveness to the legitimate needs of his constituents as much as resources and opportunities available to him permit.

“ I am the first person to be reelected in Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, and I saw this as a vote of confidence on me by my people. Representation is a sacred duty and debt, which means that when you vote for me, I am indebted to you ,” he announced.

In summary, he advised them to be very intentional about whom they choose to lead, avoiding pretentious candidates who want to ride on the goodwill of other credible candidates, and tasking them to vet every candidate on the merits of their character and antecedents.

“This shows that it is not about the party, but about the qualities of the candidate. I have been able to prove that representation is not about the size of your car or house, but about the ability to make positive impacts. My appeal to you today is that having seen my records, that you help us win people over to our side,” he concluded.

In his remarks, the president of the Nigerian Auto Technicians Association, Mr. Nnamdi Nwosu, having heard Rep. Onuigbo mention that he was once an Auto Parts trader, joked that he already knew the secrets of mechanics. He described Rep. Onuigbo as a candidate who stands out among other candidates, declaring that NATA has adopted him as it’s Senatorial Candidate for Abia Central Senatorial District.

Speaking on behalf of the Bible Believing Mission Youths, the President, Mr Ikechukwu Ohanenye, quoting from the scriptures in Acts 2:17 which says: “your old men will dream dreams, your sons and daughters will prophesy, and your young men will see visions,” prophesied that Rep. Sam Onuigbo will be victorious on the 25th February, 2023, to emerge the next Senator of Abia Central Senatorial District. He went on to pledge the support of the Bible Believing Mission Youths for Rep. Sam Onuigbo’s Divine Mandate.

Members of youth organizations from Abia Central senatorial district, including the Oha Ngwa Youth Association have backed the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia federal constituency, Rep. Sam Onuigbo for Senate.

Also supporting the lawmaker for the senatorial election coming up on Feb. 25 are drivers, tricycles (KEKE), okada, and other unions.

At his residence in Umuahia on Saturday, the youth organizations and unions said they have confidence in Rep. Onuigbo as one who can effectively represent them in the Senate, going by his antecedents as a member of the House of Representatives.

One of the youths and the chairman of Oha Ngwa Youths Association, Comrade Livinus Chisom said his members have observed the good works Onuigbo has been doing in the three local governments of Ikwuano, Umuahia North and South since 2015 when he became a member of the House of Representatives.

He expressed confidence that if elected into the Senate, Onuigbo will perform better for the enhancement of the livelihood of the people of Abia Central senatorial district.

Also speaking, Pastor Henry Okezie, the state chairman of Abia State Drivers Welfare said members of his union are in solidarity with Onuigbo in his quest for a senatorial seat, stating that they are attracted by his honesty and sincerity. According to him, they are looking beyond party lines but are concerned about individuals who have stood out in excellent performance in public office.

He expressed optimism that with the prayer and fasting women and youths of the senatorial district have embarked upon, the lawmaker will emerge victorious at the polls. In his response, the APC senatorial candidate for the senatorial district, Sam Onuigbo expressed gratitude to the youth groups and the unions for their support, saying he is touched by the show of love. According to him, other politicians have approached the unions for their support but they patiently waited for the adjudication on the rightful candidate of APC in the district, a case recently decided in favor of Onuigbo at the Supreme Court.

The supporters cited the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Road which is now wearing a new look, following intervention by Hon. Onuigbo, ending years of neglect by past representatives.

The member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, Rep. Sam Onuigbo, joined the Nkume family at Ariam Elu-Elulu, Ariam/Usaka community, Ikwuano LGA, as they laid their matriarch, Chief Mrs. Eunice Nwadiuto Nkume to rest while celebrating her well-spent life.

Speaking at the occasion, Rep. Onuigbo condoled with the Nkume family, stating that while it is true that this might be a loss to the Nkume family, we should thank God for keeping mama Nnediuto to the ripe age of 90. He went further to pray that God who led her through life would guide and give us all a long life.

“ On behalf of myself, my wife, the great people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency whom I represent at the House of Representatives, and by the grace of God by extension Abia Central Senatorial District, I condole with the Nkume family for their loss, praying that God will continue to protect them”, he said.

He also seized this opportunity to thank all who offered him support, advice, and prayers in a bid to ensure that the political conflict which has been raging for a while now is resolved.

He said: "It is true that we have been in court for the past eight months, but I am happy that the court has justifiably settled this matter. I have called my brother Hon. Emeka Atuma, and also sent him a text message which reminded him of the need to join hands together and collectively work for the progress of our community. "

“I have also seen the progress being made on the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikotekpene road and have noted their challenges, such as the availability of filling sand. I will do everything necessary to ensure that these challenges are resolved. I am also pleading for the support of stakeholder communities and individuals to ensure that this road is duly completed. I promised you that this road will be constructed, and I am happy that work is 'progressing," he said.

He concluded by advising electorates to be intentional about voting in credible leaders who would serve diligently to improve their lives.

Among Rep. Sam Onuigbo’s delegation are former education secretary, Chief Mrs. Ego Nwamuo, and Chief Liaison Officer, Evang. Abraham Osondu, Mr. Chukwuemeka Uchegbu, Evang. Mrs. Salome Isikaku, Mr. Chibuzo Nwaozuru, and Mr. Chetachi Nwako.

The primary responsibility of a legislator is lawmaking. This comes in the form of sponsoring Bills. The legislator can further affect the government's policy drives through motions, petitions, and through oversight functions.

As the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency since 2015, Rep. Sam Onuigbo's efforts in the areas of legislation have been driven by the needs of his constituents, and the general clamour of Nigerians. In this vein, he has been able to do the following:
Bills
 
1.  Climate Change Act, 2021.

2. A Bill for the amendment of the Flags and Coat of Arms Act.

3. A Bill for the amendment of the Federal University of Agriculture Umudike. Establishment Act.

4. Chartered Institute of Econometricians and Data Analysts (Establishment) Bill, 2022
 
Motions and Petitions
 
i. Motion on the need for the urgent reconstruction of the Umuahia – Ikwuano – Ikot Ekpene federal road.

ii.  Motion on the need to check the admission of students into tertiary institutions for courses not accredited/approved by the National University Commission (NUC): The motion was aimed at saving students and parents the agony of wasting their time and resources studying for courses without getting certificates at the end of the journey.

iii. Motion on the need to stop the deconstruction of Nigeria’s National Flag: This is a national issue aimed at ending the strange and disturbing act of superimposing the Coat of Arms of Nigeria on the white section of the Nigerian Flag.

iv. Motion on a matter of urgent public importance on the need to immortalize two former national football coaches, Stephen Keshi, and Amodu Shuaibu who passed on: This followed the death of both Stephen Keshi and Shuaibu Amodu, with the revelation that despite the selfless services of the two great sportsmen and gaffers, the government was owing them heavily.

v.  Petition on the wrongful dismissal of over 300 Diamond Bank staff without due process: Here, he urged the House to take appropriate steps to ensure that the Bank pays the dismissed staff their full benefits.
 
vi. Petition on the wrongful termination of the employment of some employees of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

vii.  Motion on the need for the Federal Government to reverse the Presidential directive to scale down non-agricultural programmes from the curriculum of Federal Universities of Agriculture: This motion was aimed at reversing the illegal directive to delist Management Science courses from Universities of Agriculture especially the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. The Honourable Member followed this up with several consultations with stakeholders both within Abia State, and at the national level, while also engaging the media extensively.

viii. Motion on a matter of urgent public importance (Order 8, Rule 4) to call on the Federal Government to immediately take actions to prevent a calamity waiting to happen in Umunwanwa, Umuopara, in Umuahia South LGA of Abia State: This motion was initiated to get the backing of the House in the Federal Lawmaker’s efforts at ensuring that the Federal Government and its agencies take urgent action to address the life-threatening Umunwanwa erosion.

ix. Motion on the need to intervene in the case of attacks and the gruesome murder of four indigenes of Usaka Ukwu in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State by armed indigenes of Ibono Okporo, Nkari in Ini Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State in order to prevent a bloodbath: Moved on the 14th of July 2020 on the floor of the House of Representatives, the motion sought to get the Federal Government to mandate security agencies to step in and prevent further bloodshed in the boundary dispute between the two communities, ensure that the National Boundary Commission is sent to properly demarcate the boundaries, while also ensuring that relief materials are provided for the displaced.
 
Global Efforts for Local Impacts

One of the key aspects of Rep. Sam Onuigbo’s representation at the House of Representatives was his drive towards pushing conversations at the global level to address the outcomes of climate change such as poverty, loss of livelihood means, land degradation, erosion, and indeed all aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In addition, he relentlessly pushed for energy transition using renewables to address Nigeria’s electricity/energy issues so as to provide power to drive industrialisation for his people. In these areas, he excelled immensely and became the rallying point for action by African legislators at the international level. 
To this end then, he has participated and chaired a number of international engagements aimed at initiating international collaboration to address critical issues such as funding for clean energy provision; provision of clean cook stoves for rural women to safeguard them from the health risks of cooking with hazardous fuel wood; commitment towards provision of funding for climate change adaptation (which includes erosion control efforts, alternative farming methods; etc.); etc.
Consequently then, Onuigbo's global efforts include:

a.  His Climate Change Act slots in nicely and provides impetus for Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan.

b. His Climate Change Act and its provision for the establishment of the National Council on Climate Change offers employment opportunities for many.

c. Rep. Onuigbo raised the important issue of the provision of clean cooking options for community women to safeguard their health at an International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) event in Abu Dhabi. Upon his return, he went a step further by providing clean cook stove for community women leaders from his constituency.

d. On November 8-10, 2022, Rep. Onuigbo chaired the GLOBE COP-27 Legislators Summit in Cairo. During this period, he chaired a panel focused on restoring degraded lands and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices for improved food yield. The panel had in attendance, Hon Barry Gardner MP (British Parliament), Senator Rosa Galvez (Canadian Senate), Prof. Wadid Erian (University of Cairo) and Senator Raul Bolanos-Cacho Cue (Mexican Senate).

e. On the 22nd of September, 2016, Rep. Onuigbo represented in the legislature as a witness as President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR signed the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, at the Headquarters of the United Nations, New York.


As the representative of the good people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, Rep .Onuigbo has been a very active and visible lawmaker celebrated both at home, nationally, and globally, for his unparalleled commitment to getting results. This is the passion that he will bring to Abia Central.

Perhaps the most ambitious interventions by Rep. Sam Onuigbo which best concretize his political philosophy of being responsive to the legitimate needs and aspirations of his people are his road and erosion control interventions.

This is because when Rep. Onuigbo was elected in 2015, three huge critical and existential issues threatened the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency. One was the total collapse of the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene federal road which at the time was completely impassable. Secondly, at Amankwo Ezeleke, Amachara, Umuopara, in Umuahia South Local Government Area, there was a huge gully erosion which was threatening to displace people and swallow up buildings. Thirdly, a huge gully erosion at the Okwe-Obuohia road in Ikwuano Local Government Area had almost cut the road in half.

Onuigbo therefore began his representation with these urgent problems and a litany of so many other erosion issues on his shoulders. Committed to doing the best he could but more importantly, being relentless in pursuing solutions to the aforementioned issues and many more, Onuigbo was able to do the following:

1. Carry out the rehabilitation of the failed sections of the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene federal road in 2016-2017.

2. Massive erosion control work at Amankwo Ezeleke, Amachara, Umuopara, in Umuahia South LGA. This was commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, ably represented by the then Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.

3. Erosion control work at Okwe Oboro, Ikwuano LGA which was commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, represented by the Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Professor Eyitayo.

4. Erosion control and construction of rural road in Umuecheokwu, Umuovo, Old Umuahia-Amakanma, Umuahia South LGA.

5. Pushing relentlessly for the award and commencement of work for the total reconstruction of the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene federal road. When this was stalled due to paucity of funding, he followed up to ensure that alternative funding means was deployed. The construction of this road, is seriously going on.

6. Engagement with the NNPC and the Ecological Fund Office for action to be taken to address the erosion issue at Umunwanwa. He had earlier moved two motions on this. It is hoped that action will be taken soon.

7. Completion of engineering designs and capture of the Agbor Ibere gully erosion in the Ecological Fund Office Data Bank for further actions.

8. Completion of engineering designs and capture of the Amaegbu village, Ugwuegbe Autonomous Community of Ariam Usaka gully erosion in the Ecological Fund Office Data Bank for further actions.

In addition, Rep. Onuigbo has set in motion the following which are now awaiting to be awarded by the Federal Government:

a. Flyover from Amachara to Ossa at Abia Tower and dualization of the 16km Umuahia-Umudike Road.

b. Federal Secretariat, Abia State, to be located at Ekeoba.


As often stated, what differentiates Rep. Onuigbo from most leaders is that he has his ears to the ground thus his interventions are informed by the voices of his people. This is the type of representation that Abia Central needs at this critical time.

According to Loren Eiseley, “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” More than that water also plays a part in the health of people. Health as we know, is very critical as it is an essential foundation for any human being to do anything. The absence of good health forecloses any attempt at personal or community development.

Rep. Sam Onuigbo, member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, and the Abia Central Senatorial candidate of the APC, fully aware of the importance of water and health to the overall development of his people, ensured that part of his representation was dedicated to addressing health and potable water issues for his constituents.

Here are some of the efforts made by Rep. Onuigbo to address health and water issues in Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency:

— Water project in Obunta Oboro, Ikwuano LGA.

—Water project in Inyila Ibere, Ikwuano LGA.

— Water project in Avonkwu Ibeku, Umuahia North.

— Water project at Umuotu,Umuawalaocha, Ohuhu, Umuahia North LGA.

— Water project at Ahia Orie, Ibere, Ikwuano LGA.

— Water project at Ekeneobisi, Umuopara, Umuahia South LGA.

— Civic Centre and Borehole at Ahia Orie, Ibere, Ikwuano LGA (Ongoing).

— Rehabilitation of the Obuohia Obi-Ibere Cottage Hospital, Ikwuano LGA.

— Construction and equipping of the Oloko Health Centre, Ikwuano LGA.

— Medical Outreach in 2018 for over 400 participants.

— Provision of PPEs such as tap-buckets, hand sanitizers, and liquid soaps in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) specifications following the outbreak of COVID-19.

As he stated while discussing his vision for Abia Central, Rep. Onuigbo focuses on addressing different critical sectors whose functionality will ultimately coalesce to engender a functional society for everyone.

Abia Central cannot afford to miss such a visionary.

Ekpe bú la ámá ndi Oriendu Ekeoba_, Ohuhu, Umuahia North Local Government Area, and the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, and the Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the 2023 general polls, Rep. Sam Onuigbo, was in Oriendu to witness this cultural heritage, and to felicitate with the people of Oriendu community.

Speaking at a reception in his honour, held at the country home of a prestigious son of Ekeoba, Engr. Prince Ebere Okeuhie, Rep. Sam Onuigbo thanked the people of Ohuhu for their warm reception, describing them as an enlightened people who should be accorded the respect they deserve, having produced great people such as Michael Iheonukara Okpara. “You can not buy experience, and you have produced great people whose achievements formed the basis of their recognition. These are honours earned and not honours purchased," he said.

He went on to remind the great people of Ohuhu of the part they have to play in our collective duty to change governance patterns and improve lives, as doing this will reduce social vices, *assuring them that their votes will count*.
“We can not continue with a small group of people seizing government and developing their stomach infrastructure. I am happy that people are beginning to see that *it’s not about the party, but about the individual with the right intentions*, whom we can hold accountable. We did a lot with the Electoral Act 2022, and I’m happy to have served on the joint technical committee that produced it, and our focus is *to return power to the people*, and a lot of people are excited about this. I have an unfinished project here in Ohuhu Clan, and by the grace of God, when I am elected as the Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, I will work hard to ensure that this very important project is successfully executed. In addition, I will work hard to facilitate many more projects to this area as part of the dividends of democracy," he said.

He ended by charging them to sensitize those in remote areas, recruiting them into the project to enthrone purposeful leadership.

In his response, the President General of Amaogwugwu, Mr Emeka Chukwuma, Welcomed Rep. Sam Onuigbo, thanking him for his efforts in attracting a Federal Secretariat in Abia State, stating that this shows that while we might not be aware, he’s always struggling to ensure that Abia State and his Constituency gets their due share of the dividends of democracy. “We have heard about your travails. You fought and you conquered, and you are presently the candidates of the All Progressives Congress for Abia Central Senatorial District. We are wishing you well and will do our best to encourage you, praying that God will grant you success,” he said.

Giving the vote of thanks, Sir Victor Okeuhie, the father of the host, thanked Rep. Sam Onuigbo for coming to join the people of Oriendu in celebration, and for his capable representation of the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, declaring that the people of Ohuhu will continue to support him as he takes representation to the next level. “You do not fail an exam before you enter an exam hall. Since you have entered the exam hall, we will continue to pray and work fervently for your success, which by extension is our success,” he said.

Visionary leadership is one where the leader’s decisions are anchored on a bird’s eye view of his/her people and society. From that vantage point, the leader is able to identify the different aspects of his/her people’s lives, their needs, and how addressing specific aspects of these needs will align to a functional whole that ultimately addresses in a well-rounded manner the core challenges of the people.

As the representative of the good people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Rep. Sam Onuigbo’s representation has been informed by addressing different aspects of his constituents needs with the view of setting in motion a process that engenders self-sustainability and continuous growth. One critical way the National Lawmaker did this was through human capital development.

In what follows, we will highlight most of them.

*Human Capital Development Efforts by Rep. Sam Onuigbo*

1. Provision of employment for his constituents in the Civil Service; Military; paramilitary bodies; Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government; academic institutions; civil society organisations; and in the private sector.
2. Empowerment of women and youths with motorcycles and grinding machines.
3. Training of women and youths on fashion designing and the provision of sewing machines for them.
4. Training of youths on the installation of solar panels, POP and painting, and web design.
5. Training of women and youths on fish farming by the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Lagos.
6. Training and empowerment of 1,500 men and women on how to start and manage small businesses.
7. Training and empowerment of 200 men and women on poultry farming which was followed by the provision of galvanized battery cages, Point-of-Lay birds, bags of feed, and start-up fund.
8. Training and empowerment of 100 graduates in Arts and Culture.
9. Empowerment of 250 farmers with fertilizers, coveralls, knapsack sprayers,pesticides, etc.

The vision behind these efforts by Odozi Obodo is to ensure that his constituents have sustainable livelihood means through which they can also impact on the lives of others.


P.S: We have attached here a list of some of the beneficiaries in the spirit of transparency and of course so that anyone desirous of verifying can do so.

*Ikwuano Graduates Forum (IGF) Celebrates One Year Maiden Anniversary*



Rep Sam Onuigbo, the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and Umuahia South Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, was the Special Guest of honor as graduates of Ikwuano under the umbrella of Ikwuano Graduates Forum (IGF) celebrated her maiden anniversary, an event which afforded the young Ikwuano graduates the opportunity to reflect on the goals of the organization, what has been achieved so far, and to map out a sustainable future for graduates of Ikwuano extraction.

In his Remarks, the president of Ikwuano Graduates Forum (IGF), Engr. Wilson Onwubali, described IGF as a body conceived with the aim of providing a platform that amplifies the voice of Ikwuano youths and graduates, and providing them with opportunities to advance in life, stressing that IGF is not a political organization, but an organization that recognizes leaders of the community. He went on to highlight IGF’s achievements which include _IGF-Ikwuano Global Services, IGF Thrift and Credit Society and IGF Food for All Initiative_. He ended by reminding the youths of Ikwuano of the massive opportunities for wealth creation through Agriculture, stating that “when you have nothing in your pocket, fall back to your farm, and you’ll have something in your pocket”.

Giving a lecture on the theme: _Resilience and Flexibility to Achieve Continuity_, Prof. U.N. Onwuka, Professor of Food Engineering, MOUA, Umudike, defined resilience as the net of endurance when the going gets tough, while flexibility cushions the effects of suffering as a result of resilience. He advised them to avoid interest groups who have the capability to destabilize and kill the group, charging them to have unity of purpose, coming together to champion a common cause that is aimed at progressing the youths and Ikwuano community at large.

In his keynote address, the Chairman of the occasion, Rep Sam Onuigbo, and the All Progressives Congress Candidate for Abia Central Senatorial District for the 2023 polls, praised the conveners of the Ikwuano Graduates Forum. “This is because a united body of Ikwuano graduates will potentially become a strong pillar and a critical guiding light to a future framed by visionary planning and implementation” he said, expressing his pleasure to be associated with this initiative. He tasked them to continue to maintain the integrity of the organization, and to ensure that it doesn’t morph into an elite organization. Rep Onuigbo went on to tell a brief history of his humble beginnings and how he went on to succeed against all odds. This, he said, has motivated him to provide purposeful leadership which will create an enabling environment for young people to thrive. This has been exemplified by the dividends of democracy I have returned to my constituents: empowerment of youths and rural women in fish farming, small poultry farming and snail farming; building of block of classrooms in Amaoba, Umudike, Ekebedi, Umuajata Olokoro and Afugiri; electrification projects in many parts of Ikwuano, Umuahia North and Umuahia South Local Government Areas; the ongoing reconstruction of Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Federal Road and many more of such infrastructural developments. “I am telling you my life’s story to motivate you to remain resilient, flexible and focused on your goals. And I pray to God that as you do this, you’ll be successful”, he said.

Rep. Sam Onuigbo was accompanied by his Chief Liaison Officer, Evangelist Abraham Osondu. Other dignitaries at the occasion include Hon Stanley Nwabuisi, the member representing Ikwuano State Constituency, ably represented by Dr. Ugo Ezeribe, Hon Obinna Okey, Commisioner for Inter-government Affairs, Hon Cokey Lordson Nwachukwu, immediate past Ikwuano Local Government Area Deputy Chairman, Dr. Ifeanyi Uke, ably represented by Mr Sam Ogbonna and Pastor Monday Ironcho, who earlier gave a lecture to IGF.

Every country serious about development must centre its plan around the provision of electricity which has proven over and over again to be at the nucleus of driving industrial growth. This is more so for a country like Nigeria with a crippling rate of unemployment.

Rep. Sam Onuigbo in his vision for a progressive Nigeria, has always been aware of this and has at several fora advanced conversations on addressing Nigeria’s energy poverty particularly by using renewable energy to bridge the energy gap. Little wonder then that the Climate Change Act which he sponsored makes a case for renewable energy and is complementing Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan which seeks to improve energy generation in the country.

As part of his commitment towards ensuring that electricity is provided for his constituents then, Rep. Sam Onuigbo facilitated electricity projects at the following places. In each case 300/500 KVA transformers were installed and powered as part of the electricity projects:

—Umuagungolori, Umuahia North LGA.
Amafor Isingwu, Ohuhu, Umuahia North LGA (Ongoing).

—Agbama Housing Estate (Holy Ghost Area),Umuahia South LGA.
World Bank Housing Estate, Umuahia North, LGA.

—Obuohia Obi-Ibere, Ikwuano LGA.
Oboni Upa, Ndi Okorie, Ariam Usaka, Ikwuano LGA.

—Amaeke Junction, Amaeke, Umuahia North LGA.

—Umubalala, Amuzukwu, Umuahia North LGA.

—MaryRose, Umudike, Ikwuano LGA.

—Landlord Association, Umudike, Ikwuano LGA.

—Nnoño Oboro, Ikwuano LGA.

—Ndoro Oboro, Ikwuano LGA.

Furthermore, he facilitated the installation of streetlights at the following locations:

—Obuohia Obi-Ibere, Ikwuano LGA.

—Ndoro Oboro, Ikwuano LGA.

—World Bank Housing Estate, Umuahia North LGA.

—Selected communities in Ibere clan (Ongoing).

What is certain is that Rep. Onuigbo’s representation has been structured, unhurried, but clearly visionary. We will continue to see this in the coming weeks as we continue to showcase his achievements, sector by sector.

“The foundation of every state is the education of its youth”— Diogenes

As a visionary representative, what have Rep. Onuigbo been able to do for the good people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the area of education?

—Construction of a block of four classrooms at Ekebedi Oboro, Ikwuano LGA.

—Construction of a block of three classrooms at Old Umuahia, Umuahia South LGA.

—Construction of a block of two classrooms at Adanma Girls Secondary School, Afugiri, Umuahia North LGA.

—Construction of a block of two classrooms at Umutowe Central School, Olokoro, Umuahia South LGA.

—Construction of a block of three classrooms at Nsirimo, Ubakala, Umuahia South LGA.

—Construction of a block of three classrooms at Umulu Ibere, Ikwuano LGA.

—Construction of a block of three classrooms at Umuajata, Olokoro, Umuahia South LGA.

—Construction of a block of six classrooms at Amaoba Oboro, Ikwuano LGA.

—Construction of a block of classrooms at Umukabia, Ohuhu, Umuahia North LGA.

—Construction of a block of three classrooms at Community Primary School, Umudike, Ikwuano LGA. (Ongoing)

—Purchase of JAMB and WAEC forms for constituents.

— Printing and distribution of past SSCE/NECO/GCE Questions and Answers (1988-2019) on English and Mathematics to students and candidates from secondary schools in Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency.

A lover of education, Onuigbo has, since his days at the U.S Embassy provided scholarships for indigent students and continues to do so.

Let the photos speak for themselves!

Campaigns for the 2023 general elections have begun in earnest. During this election cycle, the member representing the good people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, Rep. Sam Onuigbo (Odozi Obodo), will be seeking to be elected as the Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District.

Rep. Onuigbo’s campaign will focus on issues and not persons and true to his laser-focused way of doing things, will seek to highlight what he has been able to achieve as a representative of the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia, which is the type of representation he seeks to replicate for the entire Abia Central Senatorial District.

Important to note that Rep. Onuigbo’s representation is framed by the EAR ideology— effectiveness, accessibility, and responsiveness to the legitimate needs of his constituents.

In the coming weeks, we will highlight Rep. Onuigbo’s representation for the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia North/ Umuahia South Federal Constituency under the following broad categories:

Education
Legislation
Trade and investment
Road,bridges,erosion control
Health
Water
Electricity
Human capital development
Youth and sports
Global efforts for local impacts

Stay with us as we see what Rep. Onuigbo has done in any of the listed categories.