Dr. Chibuike Echem, Labour Party (LP) candidate for Orumba North and South Federal Constituency, in this interview with our Correspondent Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka in his office in Abuja, within the week, speaks on his declaration, plans, and vision for quality representation.
Can you introduce yourself and your ambition?
My name is Dr. Chibuike Echem, and I’m the LP candidate for House of Representatives, Orumba North and South Federal Constituency.
What is happening on August 23?
I will be engaging my constituents, particularly my community Ogbunka, where I am Okenwa Ogbunka, to officially inform them of my candidacy. We will have a grand reception and declaration at Ogbunka Civic Center.
Why is Ogbunka important in this race? My community is one of the prominent communities in Orumba South and is very well noted when it comes to politics.
Why are you running now?
Unfortunately, we have not had it so well. We have been supporting other people, and it’s time other people supported us to bring quality representation.
Do you think you are acceptable to the people?
Very well. Even though I am a young man, I am loved and accepted, especially by the younger generation and the elderly. We have done empowerment, scholarships, and donated balls for the youths.
What will set you apart from other politicians?
I want to engrave myself in the heart of the people. Good name is better than everything. I want to leave a legacy and fingerprints people will remember.
What model of governance do you admire?
I borrow a leave from Dr. Alex Otti in Abia State. He has proven that it is possible to govern with empathy and compassion and still be accepted.
What is in your manifesto?
One key promise is quarterly town hall meetings with Ndi Orumba to examine what we have done and plan together. Governance is a collective effort.
How will you mobilize Orumba people in the diaspora?
There are a lot of Ndi Orumba scattered worldwide who want to participate, but they need leadership they can trust and commit to.
Are you a career politician?
Some of us are not politicians. We just want to contribute our quota to the development of our constituency.
Is Labour Party viable?
Labour Party is a viable platform. People don’t vote party anymore, they vote candidates and individuals they can vouch for.
What is your advice to constituents?
This is not a game. Let us commit to governance that gives results. Let us play politics of competence and capacity, not money.
What areas will you prioritize?
Youths, women, children, students, healthcare, education, agriculture, and all the little amenities our area deserves.
What is the role of a legislator?
Sincerely speaking, the role of a legislator is to make law and come out with qualitative legislation.
What will be your first motion if elected?
I will first sit with my constituents, identify our challenges and needs, evaluate them, and then form a motion to present and argue on the floor of the National Assembly.
Final words?
Let us come together and see beyond what goes into our pockets, and see to the collective interest of Orumba.
