Oyi/Ayamelum 2023: Moment Of Truth, With Ogene Igbo

Uchenna Okafor, also known by the alias Wiper, a native of Awkuzu in Oyi Local Government Area, is an astute politician, who has served meritoriously in various capacities, both at Oyi Local Government, and State levels. Recently, Wiper courageously declared to the major Stakeholders and other constituent members of Oyi/Ayamelum Federal Constituency, of his intention to contest for a seat at the Federal House of Representatives. 

In All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Wiper sits as a member of the Board of Trustees. His vast political structures in and around Oyi/Ayamelum Local government areas have propelled him to a vintage position, and expectedly would yield great benefits in the coming polls. In Oyi LGA, the song on the streets is “Wipernization”. Everywhere you go, It’s Wiper, Wiper, Wiper. One wonders how he got to this appreciable level of popularity in the state.

The truth is that Wiper, a cerebral politician in Oyi, has over the years established a robust relationship with the grassroots, Youths, Stakeholders, Traditional Rulers, the Religious and Clergy. He has been around for years, and quite conversant with the political terrain of Oyi/Ayamelum constituency. It is believed that his foot soldiers are in every nooks and crannies of the Oyi/Ayamelum LGAs. 

I recall with nostalgic feelings, it was sometime in 2017, day Wiper was appointed to serve as Commissioner for Transport in Wille Obiano’s led government. The news of his appointment was received with thunderous ovation as Ndi Oyi were everywhere jubilating and celebrating Wiper’s appointment to serve the state government, and the people of Anambra. Without sounding immodest, I, personally released over a million Naira to stage a rally in support of Wiper’s appointment, knowing fully well that he was a round peg in a round hole, and would bring home the dividends of democracy. Wiper was welcomed in my country home, Azu Ogbunike with 21gun salute, live musical performances, traditional music and a gala nite. It was on this occasion that I duly advised that Wiper should not disappoint ndi Oyi.

Sincerely speaking, as a Commissioner, Wiper did his best, and will always be remembered for his wonderful performance in office. Wiper did not fail us, instead provoked visible changes in the transport sector, though short-lived as he was redeployed to Ministry of Commerce, where he performed excellently, and won several prestigious awards, including Anambra Media Awards; Outstanding Commissioner of the Year; People’s Best Choice Commissioner, Distinguished Anambra Grand Commander, et al.

For the APGA, Oyi/Ayamelum Federal Constituency, I strongly recommend that if Wiper is elected, he will perform above his predecessors. At the moment, there’s a general believe that the incumbent Ekene Ofumelu is not doing badly, but Oyi/Ayamelum deserves a man who understands the needs, aspirations and dreams of the people. A representative who will periodically summon town hall meetings to account for his stewardship. Not a cunning representative who will be sharing money to stakeholders at election time. Not a man who will be using constituency developments funds to abuse “ofe ogbono”.

Ekene Ofumelu should not seek reelection because the zoning arrangement has been upheld by the Stakeholders, against his zone Ayamelum. The Incumbent federal house member Ofumelu would be violating the agreement on zoning if he decides to seek for reelection, and the people of Oyi whose turn it is, will not support anyone who is working to destroy the unanimous decision cum understanding reached by both LGAs. 

With incumbent Ofumelu out of the race, Wiper on the platform of APGA is set to occupy the highly coveted seat at the National Assembly. 
Truth be told, Wiper is focused, and reliable. And I want to say even though the fate of politicians is in the hands of voters, Wiper’s fate is in the hands of ndi Oyi. I’m under this tremendous and massive temptation to say that there’s none who deserves the ticket in APGA than Wiper. We are proud of  Wiper. APGA stakeholders, I hope I will be forgiven for this statement because that is what I believe in, seriously. Wiper has done so much for the state in terms of his productivity and I want to add here that Oyi/Ayamelum needs a vocal and fearless legislator, not a dullard, not a selfish politician, and not a noise maker, not one who is parading the streets with political thugs, the gragra honourable. 

Ekenem!

Dr. Harris Chuma-Odili, FCMsp (Ogene Igbo) 

Writes from Ndiagu, Azu Ogbunike, Anambra State.