In this exclusive telephone interview, with our Correspondent, Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka over the week, Dr Okwudili Ezeike, a US based public health expert-attorney and community leader, speaks on his ambition to represent Aguata Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. He discusses his legislative priorities, grassroots credentials, and plans to tackle erosion, healthcare, and security if elected. Excerpts.
What is driving your ambition to contest for the House of Representatives?
My driving force is to provide adequate representation for my people, ensure that government programs are impactful in their lives, and make sure that legislations passed are tailored to meet the needs of the constituents.
If elected, what are your top three legislative priorities for your constituency?
My top three priorities are healthcare, security, and erosion control. These are the most pressing challenges facing communities in Aguata today.
How would you assess your name recognition and grassroots support in the constituency today?
The ‘Ezeike’ surname is very popular in Aguata and environs. My late father, Michael Ezeike, was a Headmaster Grade 1 who taught in many towns in Aguata, and my mother, Lady Cecilia Ezeike, was a retired schoolteacher who held leadership roles in the Catholic Women Organization in Awka and Ekwulobia Dioceses. Since my secondary school days, I have been a grassroots person. I served as the youngest Secretary General of the Ekwulobia Students Union and later as Hall Chairman of ‘D Block’ Ziks Flat Halls at the University of Nigeria Nsukka. My Foundation, Ikeakachi, has provided scholarships, paid WAEC fees, and run healthcare outreach programs across the 14 towns of Aguata.
Voter trust is low due to unfulfilled promises by politicians. What makes you different, and what track record can you point to?
I see politics as holding power in trust for the people. Elected officials are fiduciaries who must act for the common good, not personal gain. Voter mistrust comes when that duty is breached. My goal is to restore trust through transparency and integrity. As an attorney and public health expert in the U.S., I have held several public trust positions, including serving credibly as President of Ekwulobia Community USA-Canada for four years.
Why did you choose the NDC as your political platform over other parties?
First of all, NDC is a major party. As an Obidient, I align with Peter Obi and have followed him from the Labour Party to ADC and now to NDC. I see him as Nigeria’s best opportunity for transformation. But that transformation requires individuals of integrity to help dismantle the current criminal enterprise. We cannot leave politics in the hands of shady individuals and expect a different outcome.
What specific problem in your constituency keeps you up at night, and how will you address it in your first 100 days?
The erosion menace ravaging many towns in Aguata keeps me up at night. In my first 100 days, I will organize a stakeholders’ public forum to highlight the crisis. I will invite colleagues, international NGOs, and the UN to collaborate on solutions and minimize this growing threat.
What is your legislative approach to improving healthcare access in rural Aguata?
I will push for increased funding for primary healthcare centers and advocate for partnerships with private health providers and NGOs. My background in public health will help me draft bills that prioritize preventive care and maternal health for our rural communities.
Security has become a major concern nationwide. What is your plan for Aguata?
I will work with local security committees, traditional rulers, and federal agencies to strengthen community policing. I also intend to sponsor motions for better equipment and training for security personnel deployed in the constituency.
How will you ensure accountability and transparency in constituency projects?
I will institute regular town hall meetings and publish quarterly reports on all constituency projects and funds. The people deserve to know how their resources are being used, and I will make that information accessible.
Youth unemployment is high in Aguata. What is your strategy to address it?
I will focus on legislation that supports skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. Through my foundation, I have already supported many indigent students, and I plan to expand that by facilitating vocational training programs and attracting investment to create jobs.
What role will you play in national policy debates if elected?
I will be a voice for equitable development and good governance. I intend to contribute meaningfully to debates on education, healthcare, and constitutional reforms, ensuring that the interests of Aguata and the South East are well represented.
What message do you have for the electorate of Aguata ahead of the elections?
My message is simple: this is about service, not self. I am offering myself as a servant-leader committed to integrity, transparency, and results. Together, we can rebuild trust and deliver real development to every town in Aguata.
