From Echezona Okafor, Nnewi
As 2027 general elections near, the bid by the House of Representatives member representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, Hon. Peter Uzokwe, to recontest for second tenure, has been rejected by youths of the area on the ground of non-performance.
In a communique issued on Thursday after an emergency extra ordinary meeting held in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo local government area of Anambra state, youths of the federal constituency, under the aegis of "Concerned Anambra Youths," insisted that the incumbent lawmaker has nothing to show for his representation after almost three years in the House of Representatives.
Part of the communique reads, "As the 2027 general elections near, we, the youths of Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, under the aegis of Concerned Anambra Youths, after critically examining the performance of the incumbent lawmaker representing the federal constituency, Hon. Peter Uzokwe, come to the realization that he is there to represent his pocket, not the people.
"Since after the 2023 general elections, we have seen lawmakers from various federal constituencies in the country distributing hundreds of vehicles, motorcycles, and other empowerment tools to their constituencies.
"The lawmakers, including some others from Anambra state secure many federal appointments and employment opportunities for their constituencies. Many others attract road projects and other democracy dividends, but Uzokwe brought nothing home.
"In April, 2026, Hon. Uzokwe shamelessly gathered nurses and doctors in about three hospitals within the federal constituency, where they displayed packets of paracetamol and antimaleria injections in the name of medical intervention.
"Recently, his pictures surfaced where he posed with our brother, Mr. Peter Obi, claiming that he joined NDC with the former Labour Party presidential candidate. His antic is to ride on Peter Obi's should to secure second tenure.
"We, therefore, state that we voted him into power, and that today, we have rejected him. We call on His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi, as well as the leadership of the NDC in Anambra state to listen to the voice of reason, and disassociate themselves from Hon. Uzokwe.
"We shall work with and for Peter Obi under the NDC party, but will withdraw our support for the party in the federal constituency, if Uzokwe is given the NDC ticket. There are credible alternatives among aspirants under the NDC platform, who have shown proven integrity, grassroots appeal, and who are committed to democratic ideals."
On who the youths shall support in lieu of Hon. Uzokwe, the youths spokesperson, Comerade Edwin Ikegwuonu, who spoke to our correspondent after the meeting, noted that youths of the federal constituency are backing Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa, a frontline House of Reps aspirant.
He said that Amb. Ikebunwa has garnered significant acceptance, particularly within the Nnewi federal constituency, for his philanthropic efforts, youth empowerment initiatives, and grassroots engagement.
He said that as of early 2026, Ikebunwa is widely regarded as a popular, development-focused figure and a leading aspirant for the House of Representatives seat covering Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency.
According to him, Amb. Ikebunwa is known for his commitment to empowering young people, often described as a "beacon of hope" for many; adding that he has specifically supported young people through digital, vocational, and entrepreneurial training programs to enhance their employability and economic independence.
"As an entrepreneur and the CEO of Palms Realty and Investment Limited, Ikebunwa has demonstrated corporate excellence, having generated significant investment and sales in his sector, which translates to his ability to manage public resources efficiently.
"Having served as a Senior Legislative Aide, he understands the intricacies of legislative processes. He is actively involved in social investment, community development, and humanitarian efforts that aim to improve lives at the grassroots level. So, youths of this area have no doubt if he would do well in political representation," he concluded.