It was a thrilling outing at a media debate for Anambra State All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Chairmanship aspirants which held at Best Western Meloch Hotel Awka, Sunday, May 22.
In a welcome speech by the convener Dr. Harris Chuma-Odili, Director General, Anambra Independent Media Support Group (AIMSG) said the essence of the interactive session was giving the aspirants a more coordinated platform to share their visions and aspirations to APGA.
“You will realize how exalted this office is when you weigh it against the reality that Anambra State is the spiritual, social, economic and political home of APGA. It is therefore expedient to assume that this office is one that exudes great influence.
“I urge all of you to take note of the ideas being propounded by one another to know the ones that will be helpful to you when you emerge the ultimate winners during the Congress, because only one of you will win, and this will not mean that the others are losers, especially when ideas they have brought to this forum are imbibed and deployed by the ultimate winner”.
The aspirants who participated in the debate were Dr. Tochukwu Obiadi, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye, Sir Uche Egbebike, Chief Nchekwube Anthony Dunga, Hon. Chike Odoji, Hon. Ebele Onyekwelu and Chief Ofoma Ojuah.
Dr. Tochukwu Obiadi while answering questions from the panelists stated that as a youth and considering that politics is dominated by young people, that it was time to represent the youth who make up over 70 percent of voters in Anambra state. In his words,”We need a youth as the chairman and I have what it takes.”
Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye on his part narrated his journey, positions and achievements in Politics. A journey which he commenced at the age of 25 when he contested and won the house of assembly. He listed his plans and vision if voted as the next chairman, stating that he got all the experience to pilot the affairs of APGA in Anambra. “I have the capacity to turn around the party and lead it to the next level.”
Former APGA youth leader Sir Uche Egbebike on his part said he intends to solidify and sustain the performance and achievements of Governor Chukwuma Soludo if voted as chairman and that he will ensure the re-election of the governor.
The present youth leader of APGA, Hon. Chike Odoji on his part said he has served the party in different capacity and wants to redeem the party by putting more life to it and will ensure that members benefit through implementing the reward system.
Hon. Ebele Onyekwelu told delegates that as an old member of the party who joined since 2002, if voted to be the chairman, he has the experience and potential to head the party in Anambra State.
APGA state auditor general, Anambra State Chief Nchekwube Anthony Dunga said he is in the race to touch lives and change the fortunes of party members by ensuring that the common man has a voice and is carried along. “I will ensure that APGA members progress, prosper and are given a sense of belonging.”
Chief Ofoma Ojuah said he is in the race to purify the system, reward hard work and harmonise the party through constant meetings and communication.
MD/CEO of National light newspapers Sir Chuka Nnabuife who was the chief moderator urged the aspirants to remember and note all they have said because it is on record and that they would be held responsible and accountable for their submissions.
Vice president Nigeria Union of Journalist, South East Zone, Sir Emma Ifesinachi in an interview with reporters commended the organizers stating that it was a step in the right direction. He urged media practitioners to live up to expectations and not shy away from their professional responsibility.
In a vote of thanks, Hon. Nnanna Nze on behalf of the party and stakeholders commended the convener of the debate Dr. Harris Chuma-Odili, for the wonderful initiative and concept stating that it was the first time in the history of the party such gathering was being organised, where aspirants are given the opportunity to talk to delegates on their agenda. He maintained that everyone who participated in the debate has made history.
House of Assembly member elect for Njikoka one constituency Hon. Chidi Ibemeka while speaking to reporters said the debate gave a test of competence and the opportunity to hear from the aspirants. I believe that we are going to make the best choice at the coming congress.
