Politics
Law against open grazing: Over 15,000 herds of cattle impounded in Benue- Ortom
Governor of Benue state Samuel Ortom has commended the Governors of Southern Nigeria for taking the bold step of enacting Open Grazing Prohibition Laws.
Ortom who spoke on Thursday at a one day lecture organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, FRCN Chapel said the law has helped them in Benue- State to expose the evil agenda of Fulani terrorists.
Speaking on the theme, “Emerging Security Situation in the South East; the Place of Good Governance,” Ortom noted with dismay, the speed with which the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu and the Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Igboho, were arrested confirmed the fact that the Federal Government has the capacity to tackle insecurity with determination and commitment.
“We live in a country today where those who demand for equal rights and freedom to end the wave of injustice and marginalization are hurriedly declared terrorists, while real terrorists who invade communities and kill hundreds of innocent people are pampered and given government protection.
“The South East has been at the receiving end of such levels of injustice, impunity and marginalization. Let me make myself very clear. I am not a supporter of violence in any form, neither am I here to justify the violence being witnessed in parts of the East.
“This is why I condemn in strong terms, the destruction of Federal Government properties such as INEC offices, attacks on police stations, law enforcement operatives and even traditional rulers. Such attacks and destruction do not make a positive case for freedom fighters and campaigners for justice”. Ortom noted.
The governor said that dialogue remains the best option in any dispute.
“We must however admit that the ongoing agitations by youths of the South East are as a result of years of neglect, injustice, unfairness and lack of equity by those who have held this country to ransom”. Ortom said.
“There is no doubt that livestock production, as currently being carried out contributes significantly to food security and poverty reduction, but not without massive environmental implications like any other economic activity.
“In Nigeria, open grazing has been the practice of livestock production.
However, in recent times, livestock production system has led to unwarranted attacks on farmers in all parts of the country. This is due largely to population growth, infrastructural development and increased economic activities and above all, the Fulanisation agenda of Fulani nationalities worldwide who have vowed to make Nigeria their own country exclusively.
“Today, we live in the 21st century and open grazing is extinct in most countries of the world. In Europe, America, Asia and in many countries in Africa, pastoralism has long given way to ranching.
Ortom wondered how Nigeria can still be battling with the problem of open grazing of animals which had been solved over a century ago in other countries.
“According to the United States Department of Agriculture, USDA 2021 Report, India with a land mass of 1.2 square miles and with the highest number of cattle has about three hundred and five million, five hundred thousand (305,500,000) cattle, representing 30.52% of the world cattle population.
Brazil with a land mass of 3.3 million square miles has the second highest number of livestock of about two hundred and fifty-two million, seven hundred thousand (252,700,000) cattle representing 25.25%.
“China with a land mass of 3.7 square miles has about ninety-eight million, six hundred and twenty thousand (98,620,000) cattle which represents 9.55%.
“USA with a land mass of 3.6 square miles has ninety-three million, five hundred ninety-five thousand (93,595,000) cattle representing 9.35%. These are countries that have long abandoned open grazing and adopted ranching as the most sustainable and profitable form of livestock production.
To this, Ortom stated with dismay that there is no justification why Nigeria with just over twenty million cattle and land mass of 923,768 square kilometers should not adopt ranching.
“Across the country, open grazing has caused the invasion of farming communities by Fulani herdsmen leading to massive killings, maiming of people, raping of women, destruction of property, loss of livelihoods and displacement of persons.
“You might have heard that on 20th March, 2021, there was an assassination attempt on me by Fulani militia on my way back from the farm. It took the grace of God for me to survive the attack.
The group called Fulani Nationality Movement, FUNAM came out to take responsibility for the attack on me, saying that they narrowly missed their target owing to a technical hitch. Shockingly, the report of the investigation into the attack on me is yet to see the light of day”. Ortom said.
As at today, many States in Nigeria have been affected by the activities of marauding herdsmen and bandits alike.
“The decision by Governors of the Southern states to make laws to ban open grazing is therefore a step in the right direction which deserves to be supported by all good people from all the regions that make up the South.
“We in Benue State took our stand and rejected open grazing four years ago when I, in the presence of Benue stakeholders, on 22nd May, 2017 signed the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law.
“The law has since recorded tremendous success with more than 400 herders and cattle rustlers arrested with many already tried by competent courts of law and convicted.
More than fifteen thousand herds of cattle have been impounded. The law has helped us to expose the evil agenda of Fulani terrorists.
“In my lecture at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 2019, I predicted that one day, ranching will be embraced and celebrated in this country the same way June 12 is now being celebrated. That prediction is gradually coming to pass earlier than anyone could have anticipated”. Ortom noted
The governor however, noted that the lopsided federal appointments, nepotism and other acts of sectionalism, particularly from 2015 to date, have divided Nigeria now more than at any other time in the country’s history.
“The Federal Character Principle as enshrined in the Constitution has been abused and abandoned by the present administration. This is where leadership has failed Nigerians and good governance has also been relegated to the back seat.
“Eastern Nigeria, like other parts of the country, deserves equal attention with the provision of critical infrastructure and development projects, as well as allocation of resources and key appointments at the federal level.
“No section of this nation is more Nigerian than another. My definition of democracy is doing what the people want the way they want things done. As leaders, we owe the people who voted us a duty to serve them without prejudice and sentiments on account of region, religion, ethnicity, language and political affiliation”. He noted
Ortom said that the founding fathers of Nigeria saw a vision for a United country where the place of someone’s origin should not supersede the quality of what he or she has to offer the country.
“The present administration at the centre has adopted the approach of intimidation of those who dare to voice out their frustrations and concerns over growing insecurity and marginalization. But I, Samuel Ortom, will never keep quiet as long as injustice and marginalization prevail in the affairs of our country.
Ortom said that he upholds the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Junior when he said and I quote:
“If peace means accepting second class citizenship, I don’t want it. If peace means keeping my mouth shut in the midst of injustice and evil, I don’t want it. If peace means being complacently adjusted to a deadening status-quo, I don’t want peace. If peace means a willingness to be exploited economically, dominated politically, humiliated and segregated, I don’t want peace.” unquote.
Governor Samuel Ortom said that he wants peace that is anchored on equity, fairness and justice.
“The current Presidency is on record to have leveled weighty allegations and criticisms against the Goodluck Jonathan administration.
They even threatened that if they were not allowed to take over power in 2015, “the dog and the baboon would be soaked in blood”.
“As you may recall, they also claimed that the fight against Boko Haram was an attack on the north. Perhaps that explains why Boko Haram chose the then Presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress as their representative in negotiation with the Jonathan administration.
“These people occupying the Presidency at the moment also blamed the government of Jonathan for falling to tackle insecurity, but today, they are the same people harassing and intimidating Nigerians who speak against their failures.
“The present administration has introduced selective persecution and prosecution of perceived political opponents.
Its fight against corruption is only targeted at those who hold alternative views. No matter how corrupt someone is said to be, the moment such a person defects to APC, he becomes a saint. That is why some of my colleagues have already joined them. They have been intimidating members of other political parties with EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies.
“For instance, in Benue State, no day passes without one or more appointees of Government being invited and intimidated by EFCC simply because I have refused to bow to the strings of threats and harassment from Abuja to betray my people”.
Ortom made it clear that until the Presidency is willing to listen to the voices of patriotic Nigerians and take steps to address the worsening insecurity, excruciating poverty, hunger, unemployment and increasing prices of commodities, agitations may not go away so soon.
“Our universities and other tertiary institutions keep producing graduates on a yearly basis without commensurate efforts by the Federal Government to create an enabling environment for youths engagement and empowerment.
“The World Bank reported a few months ago that seven million Nigerians had plunged below the poverty line due to increase in inflation in the country in 2020. The statement came on the heels of the Presidency’s claim that in the last two years, the present administration lifted 10.5 million Nigerians out of poverty. The World Bank had earlier projected that an additional 20 million Nigerians could be impoverished by the year 2022.
“Similarly, Statistical Research Department in its January 29, 2021 Report, stated that Jihadist Fulani herdsmen activities in Nigeria from 2015 to 2020, led to the killing of over 7,400 Christians particularly in the Northern region. The Report further indicated that over five million people were displaced and their properties destroyed. Even the South East, South South and South West were not spared.
The pragmatic governor expressed optimism that the enactment of the law here in the East and other parts of the South followed by full implementation will drastically reduce the herdsmen attacks and guarantee peace and development in various communities of Benue State.
On national cohesion and sustainable development, Ortom said that youth restiveness, herdsmen attacks, banditry and other criminal activities have had negative impact on socio-economic life of Nigeria and are also fueling ethnic tensions.
“As I stated earlier, the current secessionist agitations here in the East and elsewhere are a result of injustice and lack of fairness to Nigerians by the current Presidency. This is why there is a growing perception that the Federal Government is encouraging the murderous activities of Fulani herdsmen by its actions and inaction.
From all indications, the public trust in the Presidency has been eroded. This does not speak well for the corporate existence of Nigeria” Ortom said.
On the issue of job creation as panacea to youth restiveness, Samuel Ortom said that in 2020, the unemployment rate in the country stood at 9.01 percent.
“This year 2021, the unemployment rate in the country is estimated to be at 32.5 percent.
You can now guess where Nigeria will be in terms of unemployment in 2023 when this administration will be leaving office. The question is, what has happened to the promise which those in control of the now government made in 2015 while campaigning that they will provide three million jobs per year?
“This was one promise that sparked jubilations at campaign rallies prior to the 2015 presidential elections. Sadly, the country has lost more jobs in six years than at any other time in the last few decades.
“If the Presidency had fulfilled its promise to create three million jobs per year, there would have been 12 million jobs in four years for Nigerians. On the contrary, the rate of unemployment under this government has risen from 18:8 percent in May 2015 to 33.3 percent in May 2021, translating to about 23.2 million jobless people.
“Tackling insecurity in the East and other parts of the country has to go hand in hand with job creation and youth empowerment. When youths are gainfully engaged, they have little or no time for agitations and criminal acts.
“The South East is known for entrepreneurship. If only the Federal Government had supported entrepreneurship development in the region, millions of youths would have been gainfully employed.
Finding the way forward, Ortom noted that the menace of insecurity in the East and other parts of the country can only be successfully addressed when Nigerians set aside sentiments and confront the monster.
“I therefore urge the federal, state and local governments, traditional rulers, religious groups, civil society organizations, youths and all other stakeholders to support security agencies to perform better. Security is everyone’s business”. Ortom said.
The governor called on governments at all levels to take aggressive steps to address the problem of youth unemployment.
“There must be concerted efforts at job creation and youth empowerment using the private sector to provide employment to young Nigerians. This is one sure way to reducing youth restiveness.
“The Federal Government should urgently put in place the enabling environment for the private sector to thrive, in order to prevent more industries from folding up. Government policies ought to be friendly to boost private sector participation.
Ortom called on the Federal Government to as a matter of honesty and urgency, respect the Federal Character Principle to end marginalization and injustice in form of appointments and development projects.
“The Federal Government should also implement the National Livestock Transformation Plan that was adopted by the National Economic Council (NEC). This will not only protect farming communities from attacks and herdsmen from cattle rustling but also lead to environmental protection, security of lives and property as well as guarantee food security. Indeed, ranching will also boost livestock production.
“As I have been saying, the Federal Government should publicly condemn the atrocities perpetrated by armed herdsmen, as well as arrest and prosecute the leadership of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Fulani Nationality Movement, FUNAM and other armed herder groups who have consistently admitted to the wanton killings and destruction of communities across the country”. Ortom said.
He called on the Federal Government to proscribe all militant Fulani groups as was done in the case of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), given that the Global Terrorism Index ranks Fulani militia as the fourth deadliest terrorist group in the world.
“The Federal Government should urgently convene a national dialogue of all ethnic nationalities to address the concerns being expressed by Nigerians.
“The Presidency should urgently hold a meeting of stakeholders of the entire Eastern Nigeria (devoid of party affiliation), probably here in Enugu to discuss the challenges facing the people which have given rise to youth restiveness and the violence being witnessed across the region.
“The Federal Government should also listen to patriotic calls by Nigerians and address the worsening insecurity, injustice, marginalization, poverty, hunger, unemployment and inflation, to be able to end agitations across the country.
Governor Samuel Ortom however, appeal to youths of the Eastern region to uphold peace and the non-violence approach in their agitations. While expressing believe that the non-violence model is a better option, as it has worked in other parts of the world.
“I equally appeal to the youths to cease further destruction of federal government structures in the region. Remember that the property you are destroying is your own property. They have already made a genuine case for restructuring among other meaningful demands and their voices have been heard loud and clear across the country and beyond”. He stated.
Governor Ortom conclude by appreciating NUJ, Radio Nigeria Enugu for the honour and award given to him by leadership of the NUJ FRCN Chapel.
I am grateful that you found me worthy of your award. I also congratulate other awardees on this occasion.
“May this event serve as a pedestal for sober reflection over the future of our dear country. I beseech you all to take a moment and reflect on how to make this country a better place for all. Nigeria is on life support and is running out of oxygen.
All hands must therefore be on deck irrespective of political, ethnic, religious and cultural differences to ensure the resuscitation of the country”. Ortom stated.
End.
Politics
Awkunanaw Clan gives ‘Ofo’ to their son, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, the NDC 2027 Enugu state Guber candidate
The people of Awkunanaw clan comprising 22 autonomous communities that span Enugu South and Nkanu West Local Government Areas of Enugu state declared their total support for the governorship ambition of their son, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, who is the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, 2027 governorship candidate for Enugu state.
The elders and thousands of the people of these 22 communities namely, Omuoha, Amechi Obuoffia, Ndi Uno Obuoffia, Amangwu, Ndi Agu Obuoffia, Amegu Akegbe, Attakwu, Obeaghu, Akegbe Ugwu(Okwuo) Umuatugbuoma, Umueze, Amechi Uwani, Amechi Uno, Amechi, Ugwuaji, Obegu Ugwuaji, Akwuke, Akwuke Uwani, Amodu Okowo, Okpebe, Obeagu, and Obeagu Uno gathered in their ancestral home, Ihuani Okunano at Ndi Uno Obuoffia where they prayed and gave the traditional ‘Ofo’ to Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, endorsing him, and expressing their total support, for his 2027 governorship ambition.
The elders led by the oldest man in the clan, the 104 years-old Chief Emmanuel Agwa Onovo from Akegbe Ugwu (Okwuo), extolled the public life and philantropy of Sir Chinyeaka, and prayed that God and the good people of Enugu State would vote for his victory in the 2027 governorship election. They recalled the hundreds of people of Awkunanaw clan and beyond who have been lifted by his philantropy, and how he single-handedly built the magnificient Akpasha town hall, the meeting venue of the Awkunanaw clan.
“The significance of the event,” according to the eldest man in the clan who presided over the ceremony, “is that the ‘Ofo’ provides a spiritual shield, acting as a direct link to the ancestors and God, serving as spiritual licence that justifies the warrior’s cause”
Chief Mark Ngene, a 98 year old former Director in Enugu state Local Government System, and a leading voice in Awkunanaw Clan, said, “Sir Chinyeaka’s public service record presents him as the people’s warrior and a trusted son of Igbo land who, as he goes to battle, is, today, the 19th day of August, 2026, presented with an ‘Ofo’ staff which serves as a sacred act of spiritual arming, devine endorsement rooted in a ]covenant of truth and an impending overwhelming victory in the 2027 governorship election”
Speaking after recieving the ‘Ofo,’ Sir Chinyeaka thanked the elders, the Awkunanaw people, NDC candidates and supporters, who graced the occassion. He said, “What you just witnessed, today, the 19th day of August 2026, marking the commencement of electioneering campaign for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections, is the gifting of the victory baton, traditionally called, ‘Ofo,’ in Igbo land, given to my humble self by the Awkunanaw clan, led by the Council of Elders, the traditional ‘Ofo’ custodians, ‘aka ji ‘Ofo,’ of the 22 autonomous communities of the clan.
‘Ofo’ is imbued with authority over adversaries and enables the holder to triumph over obstacles and or challenges. I recall that on this ground where I am standing, stood His Excellency Jim Nwobodo in 1979 during the build-up to the then Anambra State governorship election, and recieved this same sacred ‘Ofo’ from the elders of Awkunanaw clan. He, subsequently, won the governorship election. Similarly, in 2005, on this same spot, this same ‘Ofo’ was given to Distinguished Senator Ken Nnamani when he contested the position of the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he, too, won.”
Concluding, he said, “With this ‘Ofo,’ I am now fully prepared to go for the 2027 governorship election in Enugu state and win seamlessly to the glory of God.”
Several NDC chieftains and candidates in the 2027 election attended the ceremony. They included the deputy governorship candidate, Chief Frank Omeje, Enugu West Senatorial candidate, Chief Chinedu Ene. Others were House of Representatives candidates: Awgu/Aninri/Oji River, Dr. John Nwokeabia, Nsukka/Igboeze South, Dr. Hilary Onyishi (Ikemba), Nkanu West/Nkanu East, Hon. El shaddai Chinemerem Ike, Igbo Etiti/Uzouwani, Barr. Fide Ani. House of Assembly candidate for Enugu South Urban constituency, Mrs Ngozi Agbo, was also present.
Other NDC Chieftains present were Barr. Emeka Okeke, former Enugu State Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Kentus Eze, former SPA to Governor Ugwuanyi, Chief Emeka Madu, former member Enugu state House of Assembly, Chief Hycinth Ngwu, former APC Chieftain and Director, FAAN, Dr Vincent Obeta, former MD NEWMAP, Dr. Anthony Okenwa-Ani, former Chairman, Nkanu Local Government, and a host of others.
Politics
Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu: Bringing Enterprise, Experience and Grassroots Leadership to Ezza South/Ikwo
Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu, popularly known by his traditional title, Ochiri Ozua I of Amagu, is a Nigerian entrepreneur, political leader, community mobiliser, philanthropist and development advocate seeking to represent the people of Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State in the House of Representatives on the platform of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
His journey from entrepreneurship and community service to political leadership has been shaped by a commitment to enterprise, grassroots development, human capital and a firm belief that effective representation must translate into tangible opportunities for the people.
Hon. Chukwu hails from Enyim Agalagu, Ndufu Alike, Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. He was born into the distinguished family of the late Chief Tobias Chukwu, Omeruoha I of Alike, a respected entrepreneur and founder of BEAS Nigeria Limited, Kaduna.
Growing up under a father whose life reflected discipline, enterprise, hard work and responsibility had a profound influence on him. From an early age, he learnt that success carries an obligation to society and that leadership is ultimately measured by the positive difference a person makes in the lives of others.
His family background also exposed him to the diversity of Nigeria. With maternal roots in Northern Nigeria and significant relationships across different parts of the country, he developed an appreciation for Nigeria’s diverse cultures, traditions and communities.
That national exposure, however, has never weakened his connection to his ancestral home. He has remained deeply rooted in Ikwo and maintains strong relationships with youths, women, elders, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders.
Education and Preparation for Public Leadership
Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu holds a degree in Political Science from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).
His interest in democratic governance, elections and legislative institutions led him to the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), where he obtained a Master’s degree in Elections and Party Politics.
He is also commencing a PhD programme at NILDS, further deepening his academic engagement with democratic institutions, elections, legislative governance and public leadership.
His academic training complements years of practical experience in business, political organisation, community mobilisation and stakeholder engagement.
For Chukwu, politics is not simply about occupying public office. It is about understanding the institutions of government and using them effectively to deliver meaningful development.
Entrepreneurship and Private-Sector Leadership
As Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lykombop Nigeria Limited, Hon. Chukwu has been involved in infrastructure, transportation, technology, energy, investment facilitation and strategic development partnerships.
His entrepreneurial outlook is centred on identifying opportunities that can create jobs, attract investment, open markets and strengthen Nigeria’s productive capacity.
One of his notable technology initiatives is the Made in Nigeria Mobile App (MIN), conceived as a digital ecosystem designed to connect Nigerian manufacturers, producers, entrepreneurs and service providers with consumers and markets.
The initiative reflects his broader advocacy for local content, indigenous enterprise, digital inclusion, industrialisation and job creation.
His belief is straightforward: Nigeria must strengthen its capacity to produce, promote and consume Nigerian-made goods while creating an environment in which local businesses can grow.
Championing Technology and Sustainable Transportation
Chukwu’s development interests extend beyond conventional business into emerging technologies and sustainable transportation.
As Coordinator of the Electric Vehicles for Africa (EWEVA) initiative, he has promoted conversations around electric and alternative-energy transportation, charging infrastructure, technology transfer and public-private partnerships.
His engagements in this area have broadened his network across Africa and internationally while reinforcing his belief that African countries should not remain passive consumers of emerging technologies.
He advocates greater African participation in the industries, skills, infrastructure and partnerships that will shape the continent’s economic future.
Grassroots Development and Human Empowerment
For Hon. Chukwu, development begins with people.
Through the Ochiri Ozua Youth Foundation and various personal interventions, he has supported initiatives involving youth development, education, mentorship, economic empowerment and community advancement.
His approach to community leadership is based on accessibility. Despite his exposure to business, political and international circles, he remains comfortable engaging directly with ordinary citizens, community elders, young people and grassroots stakeholders.
Those who know him describe him as sociable, approachable and willing to interact freely with people regardless of their social standing.
He believes that leaders lose touch with their responsibilities when they become disconnected from the people they seek to serve.
From Community Engagement to Politics
Hon. Chukwu’s political journey evolved from years of community involvement, political participation and advocacy for development.
His experiences have given him exposure to party organisation, grassroots mobilisation, electoral competition, political negotiation and the complexities of democratic representation.
Over time, he became convinced that sustainable change requires not only private-sector initiatives and community interventions but also effective participation in the institutions where laws, budgets and national priorities are determined.
That conviction informed his decision to seek election to the House of Representatives for Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency.
Following consultations with political stakeholders, community leaders, youths, women and supporters, he emerged as the NDC candidate for the constituency after a competitive primary process.
For him, the nomination is not the destination. It is an opportunity to build a wider movement around effective representation, accountability and constituency development.
A Vision for Ezza South and Ikwo
At the centre of Chukwu’s political proposition is the belief that representation must go beyond occupying a seat in the National Assembly.
He believes an effective representative must understand the legislative process, contribute meaningfully to lawmaking and oversight, attract opportunities and interventions to the constituency, and remain accessible to the people throughout the tenure.
His development priorities include:
- Education and human-capital development;
- Youth and women empowerment;
- Agriculture and agro-processing;
- Healthcare;
- Infrastructure development;
- Technology and digital inclusion;
- Entrepreneurship and employment creation;
- Community security; and
- Greater economic opportunities for families and businesses.
He places particular emphasis on young people, whom he regards as the constituency’s greatest long-term asset.
His vision is to equip young people with education, vocational and digital skills, entrepreneurial opportunities and access to networks that can enable them to compete across Nigeria and internationally.
He also sees enormous potential in the agricultural strength of Ezza South and Ikwo. According to this vision, agriculture should evolve beyond subsistence production through better processing, storage, market access, infrastructure and investment.
Building Bridges Between Government and Enterprise
Chukwu’s private-sector experience has shaped his belief that government cannot solve every developmental challenge alone.
He argues that effective representation should create bridges between government institutions, communities, businesses, investors and development organisations.
Such partnerships, he believes, can unlock opportunities that may not be available through government funding alone.
His objective is therefore to position Ezza South and Ikwo to benefit from government programmes, private investment, technology, development partnerships and emerging economic opportunities.
A Bridge Across Communities and Generations
One of Chukwu’s defining characteristics is his ability to operate across different social, cultural and professional environments.
His roots are firmly established in Ikwo, while his maternal heritage and national exposure have given him relationships across different parts of Nigeria.
His business engagements have also connected him to national and international networks, while his grassroots activities have kept him closely connected to the communities he seeks to represent.
These experiences have shaped a worldview that is local in commitment but national in outlook.
He sees Ezza South and Ikwo as communities that should be connected to opportunities across Nigeria and the wider global economy.
The Man Behind the Public Profile
Away from politics and business, Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu is a family man, husband and father.
He values friendship, loyalty, compassion and respect for people irrespective of their social standing.
His traditional title, Ochiri Ozua I of Amagu, is an important part of his public identity and relationship with the grassroots. To him, traditional recognition is not merely a privilege but a responsibility to remain accessible, protect community interests and use one’s influence for the advancement of others.
His faith in God also remains central to his personal philosophy, with his journey in enterprise, community leadership and public service shaped by perseverance, divine grace and the support of people who have believed in him.
A New Proposition for Representation
As he seeks the mandate of the people of Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency, Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu presents himself as more than a politician seeking office.
He brings to the contest a combination of entrepreneurial experience, academic preparation, grassroots engagement, community leadership and national and international networks.
His message is built around a simple proposition:
Representation must be visible.
Representation must be accessible.
Representation must attract opportunities.
Representation must produce measurable results.
He believes that elected representatives must remain connected to the communities that gave them their mandate and must continually demonstrate the value of that mandate through action.
For Ezza South and Ikwo, his aspiration is to build a constituency where the people have a stronger voice in Abuja, young people have clearer pathways to opportunity, communities attract meaningful development, and elected leadership remains accountable to the people.
Guided by the values of hard work, courage, integrity, compassion, enterprise, loyalty and service, Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu, Ochiri Ozua I of Amagu, seeks to bring his experience and networks to the service of the people of Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency and, ultimately, to the service of Nigeria.
His Philosophy
“Leadership is a sacred trust. Its true measure is not the position a person occupies, but the opportunities created, the lives improved and the legacy left for generations yet unborn.”
Politics
2027: Kevin Chukwu Challenges Chinedu Ogah, Says Ezza South/Ikwo Deserves a Fresh Direction
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency, Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu, has responded to recent comments by the incumbent lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Chinedu Ogah, urging voters to compare their records, capacity and programmes ahead of the 2027 House of Representatives election.
Chukwu described Ogah as his brother and said he respected his right to seek another term, but maintained that he equally had the democratic right to present himself as an alternative to the electorate.
According to him, the 2027 election should not be about personal rivalry but about allowing the people of Ezza South and Ikwo to decide who should represent them.
On Ogah’s bid for another term, Chukwu clarified that his argument was not based on any constitutional restriction on the number of terms a member of the House of Representatives could serve.
Rather, he said, after eight years in office, Ogah’s record should be subjected to public scrutiny to determine whether constituents wanted continuity or a fresh direction.
Chukwu also disputed Ogah’s claim that he defeated him in his polling unit in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
He explained that he supported Ogah during both elections and actively worked for his victories.
“You cannot defeat someone who was working for your victory,” Chukwu said, adding that the circumstances would be different in 2027 because both men would be seeking the same mandate.
He challenged Ogah to allow voters to determine the winner at the polls.
Chukwu also questioned Ogah’s claim that about 15 people from his village, Enyim Agalagu, secured federal employment through his intervention.
He said he had made enquiries within the community but could not identify anyone who benefited from such intervention.
The NDC candidate challenged the lawmaker to publish the names of the alleged beneficiaries and the federal establishments where they were employed, promising to publicly acknowledge Ogah if the claims were verified.
On the 500KVA transformer reportedly installed at Ukwuinyinma Village, Chukwu acknowledged that the transformer was physically present but questioned its impact on the community.
He claimed that Ukwuinyinma had never enjoyed electricity supply from the transformer and argued that a project should be measured by its functionality and impact on residents.
Chukwu also addressed Ogah’s reference to a N150,000 financial assistance he once received from him.
He confirmed receiving the money after approaching Ogah for assistance during a difficult period, but rejected the suggestion that the assistance amounted to political sponsorship.
According to him, receiving help from an elected representative does not mean a constituent forfeits the right to disagree politically or contest against the representative in a future election.
The NDC candidate further defended his financial capacity and political ambition, describing himself as the son of the late Chief Tobias Chukwu, Omeruoha I of Alike, founder of BEAS Nigeria Limited, Kaduna.
He said he grew up in an entrepreneurial environment and had remained involved in business, investments and enterprise throughout his adult life.
Chukwu also defended his ability to speak Hausa, describing his connections and ability to communicate across Nigeria as an advantage that could help him attract opportunities and partnerships to Ezza South and Ikwo if elected.
He said his manifesto would focus on education, employment, agriculture and agro-processing, electricity, infrastructure, healthcare, youth and women empowerment, legislation, oversight and effective constituency representation.
Chukwu accepted Ogah’s challenge to present his manifesto and urged both candidates to take their programmes directly to the people.
He said the electorate should compare Ogah’s eight-year record with his own experience, capacity and plans for the constituency.
“I am not contesting to make up numbers. I am not in this race to negotiate with anybody. I am contesting to win the mandate of the people of Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency and to offer a fresh direction in representation,” he declared.
Chukwu appealed for a peaceful and issue-based campaign, insisting that the election should focus on records, ideas, capacity and the future of the constituency.
He stressed that regardless of the outcome, Chinedu Ogah would remain his brother and that the legitimate choice of the electorate must be respected.
“The people will have the final word,” Chukwu said.
In Hausa-language video interview shared on 𝕏, Atiku said after securing the presidential ticket in 2007, Tinubu sent five elders, including Tom Ikimi, Bisi Akande, and three others, to meet with him, requesting to be his running mate.
Atiku said he opposed Tinubu’s proposal because a Muslim-Muslim ticket would not be in the best interest of the country.
He said, “He said he would back me to secure the ticket. After I got the ticket, he sent five elders among them Tom Ikimi, Bisi Akande and three others. They told me that Tinubu wanted to be my running mate. I told them that, as Christians they should understand that it was inappropriate for me to pick a Muslim as my running mate.
“I asked them why they could not tell him that. I told them that I could not accept a Muslim-Muslim ticket, because it would not be of the best interest of our country. He broke away and backed the late President Umaru Musa Ya’adua, may his soul rest in peace.”
Speaking further, Atiku said they parted ways and did not find themselves in the same political camp until 2014 during Buhari’s campaign.
Atiku said late Buhari solicited for his support during a meeting at his (former Vice President’s) residence, and he gave a condition that Tinubu must not be his running mate.
According to Atiku, Buhari agreed to the condition but Tinubu got upset over the late former President’s failure to keep to his promise.
Atiku also said that Buhari declined to work with a female running mate when Tinubu suggested his wife, Oluremi, who is a Christian.
He added, “I returned to Abuja after the convention and Late President Muhammadu Buhari visited me at my residence. He told me that he had contested the primary election and won, but needed support to win the secondary election, saying he could not win without my support.
“I gave him one condition because I learnt that Tinubu wanted Buhari to pick him as his running mate. I assured him I will support on the condition that he will not do Muslim-Muslim ticket. After about five minutes of thought, he assured me would not.Executive Branch
“Tinubu was so upset, saying that Buhari had not kept his promise, and so on. He was eventually calmed down. He later asked Buhari to pick his wife since she is a Christian, but Buhari declined to work with a female running mate.
“Clerics were involved in the ensuing disagreement, but in the end, Tinubu was convinced to nominate Osibanjo who was his Attorney-General and a Christian and Buhari accepted the nomination.”
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency in the 2027 general election, Chief Kevin Chukwu, has declared that he is contesting the election to win and provide what he described as purposeful and people-oriented representation.
Chukwu made the declaration while reacting to social media reports alleging that he was being sponsored by political opponents or merely contesting to secure recognition as a candidate.
The NDC candidate dismissed the claims as attempts to distract the electorate, insisting that he enjoys strong grassroots support across the constituency and is fully focused on building a formidable campaign ahead of the election.
He said he would soon unveil his manifesto and campaign strategies, which, according to him, would focus on the needs and aspirations of the people of Ezza South and Ikwo.
“Those saying I am not serious or that I am not contesting to win are jokers sponsored by my opponents to distract the electorate. I am prepared to launch my grassroots campaign, where I will unveil a people-centred manifesto that will speak directly to the needs of the people of Ezza South and Ikwo Federal Constituency,” he said.
Chukwu also criticised the current representation of the constituency, arguing that the incumbent, who he said had served two terms, should give way to another person in 2027.
“We all know the current person occupying the position. He has been there for two tenures, and it is time for him to come back home for another person to go, because we don’t do third term in our constituency,” he said.
He further alleged that the incumbent’s programmes and projects had not been sufficiently inclusive, claiming that the benefits had largely been limited to a section of the constituency.
According to Chukwu, “the people are already tired of his representation and are ready to bring him home in 2027.”
The NDC candidate urged his supporters and other constituents not to be discouraged by what he described as “fake speculations,” assuring them that his campaign would soon commence at the grassroots.
“I wish to call on all our supporters and people of our constituency not to be discouraged by their fake speculations or be intimidated by the APC thugs. By the grace of God, our grassroots campaign will showcase the plans of NDC, and I am certain that all NDC candidates will emerge victorious, right from the presidential candidate down to the State House of Assembly,” he said.
Chukwu also disclosed that he would soon unveil his campaign team as part of preparations for the 2027 election.
He promised that, if elected, his legislative agenda would prioritise human empowerment, infrastructural development and the promotion of laws and policies designed to improve the welfare of residents of Ezza South and Ikwo Federal Constituency.
He added that his legislative representation would also seek to contribute to the broader development of Ebonyi State and Nigeria.
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