A seasoned entrepreneur, philanthropist and community leader fron Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Justus Okorie, has declared his intention to contest the Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo federal constituency seat.

Mr Okorie, known as Ikemba Ishiagu, made his intention known at a media  briefing on Saturday in Abakaliki.

He announced that he had obtained the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s expression of interest and nomination forms at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.

He pledged to provide effective and people-oriented representation for his constituents if elected into the house of representatives.

Mr Okorie said his aspiration was driven by a deep desire to bring quality representation, responsive leadership and sustainable development to the people of the constituency.

According to him, his mission is to ensure that the dividends of democracy are felt by ordinary people through effective lawmaking, empowerment initiatives, infrastructural development and improved welfare for his constituents

Mr Okorie, an Abuja-based businessman, said he would prioritise policies and programmes that would stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities and improve access to education, healthcare and rural infrastructure if elected.

He emphasised that representation should go beyond occupying political office, stressing that elected officials must remain accessible and accountable to the people, who entrusted them with power.

“As someone who has spent years serving humanity through business and community development, I understand the challenges facing our people. My aspiration is anchored on service, inclusiveness and the determination to improve the living conditions of our constituents.

“The federal constituency, which comprises Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo local government areas of Ebonyi has enormous human and natural resources, but requires purposeful leadership to unlock its full potential,” he said.

The aspirant also used the opportunity to commend the leadership qualities of Peter Obi, the frontline contender for the NDC presidential ticket, describing him as a visionary leader with the competence and integrity needed to reposition Nigeria.

He urged Nigerians across political, religious, ethnic and social divides to unite in support of Mr Obi’s presidential ambition to rescue the country from its current socio-economic and political challenges.

“Nigeria is at a critical point where citizens must place national interest above sectional considerations and support credible leaders capable of restoring hope, strengthening institutions and rebuilding public trust in governance,” Mr Okorie said.

He said that the country’s growing insecurity, unemployment, economic hardship and poor governance required bold and sincere leadership committed to transparency, accountability and national development.

Mr Okorie will contest against his kinsman and incumbent lawmaker representing the constituency, Nkemkanma Kama of the All progressives Congress (APC), if he secures the party’s ticket. 

(NAN)