Chief Akai Egwuonwu, a renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and politician, has declared his interest to run for the Anambra South Senatorial bye-election to replace Late Senator Dr Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, whose death created a vacuum in the representation of the district. Egwuonwu, who is also the Managing Director of Zara Stores, Anambra Rice amongst other business concerns believes he is best suited to tackle the insecurity challenges facing the district if given a chance at the seat because he was privileged to have worked with Senator Ubah in depolying the security gadgets, during the Secure and Light Up Anambra South District project of the late Senator.
Egwuonwu's declaration is seen as a significant development in the upcoming bye-election, which is expected to be keenly contested by politicians in the district. The Anambra South Senatorial District has been without a representative in the Red Chamber of the National Assembly since the passing of Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah. Egwuonwu's entry into the race is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the campaign and as well kick start campaign ad INEC had drawn a deadline for the presentation of candidates by political parties, and proper election early next year.
As part of his campaign, Egwuonwu called on Anambra South indigenes to give Nnewi South a chance at the seat for the sake of equity. He said "Out of the seven local government areas in the region, only Nnewi South is yet to represent the district at the Red Chamber of the National Assembly. Egwuonwu however believes that it is time for Nnewi South to take its rightful place in the National Assembly and as such is seeking the people of the district as well as stakeholders in the district to make it happen.
Egwuonwu has also commended Professor Charles Soludo, the Governor of Anambra State, and the APGA faithful for their impact and resilience in governance despite the economic challenges facing the country. He praised the Supreme Court judgment on the APGA crisis, which has brought stability to the party.
Adding his voice, Hon. Sir Ifeanyi Ezegamba, the former SSA Legal to former Governor Chief Wille Obiano, said that the decalration of Chief Akai Egwuonwu is coming at the right time, as he is best suited to fill the gap that late Senator Ubah has left. He called on Ndi Anambra South Senatorial district, especially his party APGA to see to it that he is given the mandate, as he remains the only one who has shown commitment to driving the ideal of the party which is centered on being your brothers keeper.
He said if given the mandate, Chief Egwuonwu will surmount the many challenges of the zone especially on Insecurity as he is passionate about having a stable business environment in the state, being a business mogul.
The Anambra South Senatorial bye-election is expected to be a highly competitive contest, with several candidates already indicating their interest. However, Egwuonwu's experience and track record as a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist makes him a strong contender for the seat.
Egwuonwu's campaign is expected to focus on issues such as security, economic empowerment, and social welfare. He believes that his experience and expertise will enable him to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the people of Anambra South Senatorial District.
As the campaign for the Anambra South Senatorial bye-election heats up, Egwuonwu's declaration is seen as a significant development, as his experience, track record, and commitment to the welfare of the people makes him a strong contender for the seat.
The declaration saw in attendance members of the APGA from the 7 LGAs of the District, major stakeholders of the party, the Local government chairman of Nnewi South LGA, Chief Maja Umeh amongst other stakeholders