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ONYEOBIA FIRES WARNING SHOT: ‘SAVE YOUR MONEY, STEP DOWN NOW’

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ADC Reps Candidate Challenges Opponents to Debate, Defend Records as He Unveils Development Vision for Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo

The race for the House of Representatives seat representing Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency may be heading for a bruising political battle, as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Barrister Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia, has thrown down the gauntlet to his opponents, declaring that the era of politics built solely on party structures, political alliances and name recognition is over.

In a blunt challenge that could reverberate across the constituency, Onyeobia told rival candidates to “save their money and withdraw immediately,” insisting that the electorate had become too politically conscious to be persuaded by conventional campaign tactics.

According to him, what will ultimately determine the election is not the size of a candidate’s political machinery but the strength of his message, the credibility of his vision and, most importantly, his record of service to the people.

“What we are selling at the moment is a message. What we are selling is a vision. The message and the vision would drive the votes.”

The ADC candidate spoke with remarkable confidence about his chances, rejecting the language of uncertainty often associated with political campaigns.

“I do not think I will win the election. I know I will win the election.”

He went further, predicting that the election would effectively be decided in December rather than January.

At the heart of Onyeobia’s argument is his belief that the electorate has undergone a political awakening.

He argued that years of hardship, unfulfilled promises and disappointing political experiences have changed the way voters assess candidates.

For him, party affiliation alone can no longer persuade voters who are increasingly demanding answers about what candidates have actually done and what they intend to accomplish.

“Our people have become wise. Our people have suffered enough. Alliances, parties, attachments are no longer selling. People have seen what they have done to us.”

The statement represents a direct assault on the traditional political formula in which established names, party structures and alliances often dominate electoral contests.

Onyeobia believes the new political currency is performance, credibility and vision.

The ADC candidate has also placed a challenge before the electorate itself, ask difficult questions before handing over political power.

He urged constituents to confront every candidate with questions about their personal history, previous accomplishments and capacity to deliver.

“Ask them, what will you do for me? What have you done in the past? What qualifies you to be a member of the House of Representatives representing this great constituency?”

He said voters should not be satisfied with campaign speeches filled with promises of what a candidate will do after election.

Instead, candidates should be judged by what they have already done with the opportunities they have had.

The argument is central to Onyeobia’s campaign narrative, past performance should be the strongest evidence of future performance. But Onyeobia did not stop at criticism.

He issued a direct invitation to his political opponents to sit across the table with him for a public debate.

He proposed a forum where candidates would answer questions from journalists, constituents and, potentially, one another on their records, experiences, accomplishments and plans for the federal constituency.

“I want us to have a debate. I want us to have a forum where all of us can sit down, answer questions from the press on our history, on our records, how we have used our adult lives, and what impact each of us has had on our community.”

He said the debate would provide voters with an opportunity to distinguish between political ambition and genuine public service.

For Onyeobia, electioneering should be more than rallies, posters, political caps and slogans.

It should be a conversation about the future of the people.

Perhaps the most significant aspect of Onyeobia’s manifesto is his decision to place his own record under scrutiny.

While unveiling his agenda, he pointed to several initiatives associated with his community interventions, including educational support, youth empowerment, healthcare assistance, infrastructure and security related projects.

He highlighted the work of the Onyeka Foundation, which, according to him, started in 2017 with only nine students but has grown to support more than 250 students.

He presented the expansion as evidence of what he described as the power of sustained investment in human capital.

He also cited youth empowerment programmes, provision of a borehole and other community oriented initiatives.

Among the projects he referenced were the construction of a security post, provision of CCTV infrastructure and renovation of buildings, including the conversion of facilities into a library and science laboratory.

Onyeobia’s political argument appears to rest on a simple proposition, if an individual can deliver at the community level, that experience can be scaled up through legislative representation.

Reflecting on his previous leadership experience, he explained how his involvement in community organisations shaped his philosophy of service.

He said leaving leadership positions in some of those organisations gave him the opportunity to pursue a broader vision of bringing people together, identifying their needs and developing practical responses.

That philosophy, he suggested, now forms part of the foundation of his federal constituency agenda.

Women and young people also feature prominently in the manifesto unveiled by the ADC candidate.

Onyeobia outlined skills acquisition initiatives aimed at helping young people develop practical competencies that can translate into employment and economic independence.

He also highlighted a proposed healthcare assistance programme for indigent women.

According to him, the initiative would initially target 50 indigent women, providing financial assistance to beneficiaries facing medical bills.

The concept, he explained, is not simply about giving temporary assistance but creating a sustainable mechanism capable of supporting vulnerable members of the constituency.

Employment creation also occupies a prominent place in Onyeobia’s vision. He said a major responsibility of an elected representative should be to use the influence and opportunities available through public office to open doors for constituents.

He proposed a transparent process through which employment opportunities would be communicated to constituents and beneficiaries selected on clear criteria.

His argument is that political representation should translate into real economic opportunities for ordinary people. Rather than employment opportunities being treated as personal favours or political rewards, he said the process should be structured so that constituents can genuinely benefit.

As he rounded off his message, Onyeobia painted a picture of a constituency moving into what he described as a new era of result oriented governance.

He rejected what he described as the familiar political language of “I will,” “I shall” and “I promise you,” arguing that voters deserve something more concrete.

“The future is bright. The expectation of result oriented governance is here. It is no longer, ‘I will, I shall, I promise you.’” His message was clear, candidates should come before the people with evidence, not merely promises.

With the political atmosphere already beginning to heat up ahead of the 2027 elections, Onyeobia’s intervention injects a distinctly confrontational tone into the contest for the Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency.

His decision to challenge his opponents to a public debate could place pressure on other candidates to similarly expose their records and articulate their programmes.

Whether his confidence will translate into electoral victory remains a matter for the voters.

But one thing is already clear, Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia intends to make the contest a referendum on records, vision and measurable service.

And with his declaration that his opponents should “save their money and withdraw,” the ADC candidate has made his position unmistakable.

The campaign for Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo has begun and Onyeobia is not merely asking for the votes. He is challenging his opponents to prove they deserve them.

 

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OZIOMA RALLIES ADC OSISIOMA LEADERS FOR 2027, TASKS WARD EXECUTIVES ON GRASSROOTS MOBILISATION

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Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency, has called for stronger party unity, strategic planning and intensified grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Onyeobia held an interactive meeting with the ADC Osisioma 5-Arms Local Government and Ward Executives in Osisioma Ngwa, Abia State, to assess the party’s progress, review mobilisation strategies and identify areas requiring improvement.

Speaking at the meeting, the ADC Chairman in Osisioma Ngwa, Hon. Obioma Ogbonna, commended the candidates for their commitment to the party’s growth and pledged continued support, urging leaders and stakeholders to sustain cooperation.

Other party leaders, including Hon. Emeka Ahukanna, ADC LGA Secretary; Hon. Michael Onyekwere, Ward 1 Chairman; and Hon. Chibuzor Akokwu, Ward 6 Chairman, highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the party through ward level engagement and grassroots mobilisation.

Similarly, Hon. Dan Onwutuebe, Osisioma Ngwa Coordinator of the Atiku Abubakar/Rotimi Amaechi Campaign Organisation, expressed confidence in Onyeobia’s candidacy and urged members to work collectively towards electoral victory in 2027.

The Deputy Director General and Osisioma Coordinator of the Ozioma Movement, Hon. Obinna Otuonye, also encouraged members to spread the OZIOMA message across communities, assuring them of an inclusive movement guided by the popular Igbo expression, “Onye ruo ma, ya eri ma”, emphasising the principle that everyone should have a role in collective progress.

Addressing the executives, Barr. Onyeobia urged them to remain united, proactive and committed to delivering victory for all ADC candidates. He stressed the need for consistent community engagement, wider dissemination of the party’s message and stronger collaboration among leaders and stakeholders.

He reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with party structures to build a stronger, more inclusive and electorally competitive ADC across the federal constituency.

The meeting underscored the importance of grassroots participation, effective leadership and party unity as the ADC intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections.

 

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UBANI SAN CHARGES NBA ORON ON ACCOUNTABILITY, SECURITY AND PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AS BAR CENTRE PROJECT TAKES OFF

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Senior Advocate says proposed NBA Oron House must promote mentorship, unity, institutional integrity and access to justice.

Dr. Monday Ubani, SAN, has called for a secure, dignified and professionally supportive environment for legal practitioners, stressing that the independence and safety of lawyers remain fundamental to the protection of the rule of law and the effective administration of justice in Nigeria.

Ubani made the call while delivering the keynote address as Chairman of the Occasion at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oron Branch, Law Week, held under the theme, “Legal Administration and Legal Practice in a Secured Environment.” The event featured the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed NBA Oron House, Bar Centre, marking a significant step towards strengthening the branch’s institutional capacity and professional development.

The senior lawyer explained that security in legal practice extends beyond physical protection to include freedom from threats, intimidation and unlawful interference, as well as the protection of confidential information, digital security and institutional safeguards.

He maintained that lawyers must be able to perform their professional duties without fear of retaliation, particularly when challenging unlawful conduct or representing clients whose interests may conflict with those of powerful individuals or institutions.

Describing the proposed NBA Oron House as more than a physical structure, Ubani said the Centre should become a lasting professional home where lawyers can exchange ideas, access continuing legal education, receive mentorship and collaborate on legal aid and public-interest initiatives.

He urged the branch to ensure that the facility is adequately equipped with functional meeting rooms, legal research resources, private consultation spaces, administrative offices, reliable utilities and appropriate security arrangements. He also emphasised accessibility for persons with disabilities and the need for a sustainable maintenance plan.

Accountability, Transparency Essential to Project’s Success

 

Ubani stressed that the success of the Bar Centre would depend not only on the quality of its construction but also on the transparency, integrity and accountability of those responsible for its execution.

He called for proper documentation of financial contributions and expenditure, regular progress reports, professional procurement and construction standards, and a realistic completion and management plan.

He warned against allowing the facility to become the personal property of any administration or faction, insisting that it must remain an enduring institutional asset accessible to lawyers across generations and professional backgrounds.

Drawing on his experience in NBA leadership, including his service as Chairman of NBA Ikeja Branch, Second Vice-President of the Association and Chairman of NBA-SPIDEL, Ubani urged members to prioritise the collective interests of the legal profession above personal differences, electoral divisions and individual ambitions.

He observed that leadership tenures would eventually end, but institutions built on sound principles could serve generations to come.

Young Lawyers, Professional Development in Focus

The senior advocate also called for greater investment in young lawyers, noting that the proposed Centre should provide opportunities for mentorship, practical training, professional development and continuing legal education.

He identified the financial demands of establishing legal practice, technological changes, professional competition and the responsibility of maintaining ethical standards amid economic challenges as some of the difficulties confronting young practitioners.

According to him, a well-managed Bar Centre could help address these challenges, strengthen professional fellowship and prepare younger lawyers for greater responsibilities in the administration of justice.

Ubani further encouraged the NBA Oron Branch to use the facility as a platform for public service through legal awareness campaigns, pro bono services and constructive engagement on human rights, criminal justice reform, electoral integrity, constitutional governance and access to justice.

He emphasised that the credibility of the legal profession should not be measured solely by the respect lawyers command in courtrooms, but also by the confidence ordinary citizens repose in them.

Calls for Support Without Compromising Bar Independence

Ubani appealed to members of the Bench, government, traditional institutions, corporate organisations, business leaders, philanthropic individuals and other friends of the legal profession to support the project.

He, however, cautioned that partnerships and external support must not compromise the independence of the Bar or undermine its professional responsibilities.

Commending the leadership and members of NBA Oron Branch for initiating the project, he urged them to sustain the commitment and collective effort that had made the foundation-laying ceremony possible.

He said the true value of the completed Centre would not be determined merely by the beauty of its structure, but by the quality of lawyers it develops, the lives it touches and its contribution to justice and the rule of law.

Ubani expressed the hope that NBA Oron House would become a lasting symbol of professional excellence, institutional progress and service to humanity, built on the enduring foundations of unity, integrity, transparency and accountability.

Dignitaries Grace NBA Oron Law Week

The annual event attracted prominent members of the judiciary and the legal profession, including the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Justice Ekaette F. Obot, who was represented by Hon. Justice Effiong Offiong of the State High Court.

The Attorney-General of Akwa Ibom State, Uko Udom, SAN, was also represented by a director in the State Ministry of Justice. Several judges, magistrates and Bar leaders from Eket, Uyo and Ikot Ekpene attended the occasion.

The NBA Oron Branch is chaired by Ikara O. Ikara, Esq., while Chief Godwin Effiong serves as Chairman of the Annual Law Week Planning Committee.

The highlight of the event was the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed NBA Oron House, led by Hon. Justice Effiong Offiong on behalf of the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ekaette F. Obot.

The ceremony was widely regarded as an important milestone in the branch’s drive to establish a permanent institutional facility that will strengthen professional interaction, support the development of lawyers and promote access to justice.

With the project now underway, the call by Ubani underscores the importance of ensuring that NBA Oron House becomes not merely a landmark building, but a centre of professional growth, ethical leadership, institutional accountability and public service.

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OZIOMA 2027: ONYEOBIA STRENGTHENS GRASSROOTS SUPPORT IN OBINGWA, ENGAGES NDA MEMBERS

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ADC Federal Constituency Candidate Reaffirms Commitment to Dialogue, Unity and Effective Representation

Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency, has continued to strengthen his grassroots engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections, holding consultations with members of the New Development Alliance (NDA) in Mgboko, Umuanunu Ward 3, Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State.

The consultation, which took place on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, provided an opportunity for the ADC candidate and members of the group to exchange ideas, discuss their expectations, and explore a shared vision for the future development of the constituency.

Barr. Onyeobia and his entourage received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from members of the NDA, who expressed their appreciation for the engagement and their interest in his political vision under the Ozioma 2027 project.

In their separate remarks, the group’s leader, the ADC Ward 3 Chairman, the Women Leader, and the Youth Leader commended Barr. Onyeobia for what they described as his commitment, sincerity, integrity, and clear vision for development and effective representation.

They expressed confidence in his leadership capacity and highlighted their expectations for a future defined by purposeful representation, improved opportunities, and greater attention to the needs and aspirations of the people.

Responding, Barr. Onyeobia thanked the members for their warm reception, patience, and willingness to engage with him and his team. He emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, collaboration, and grassroots participation in building a stronger constituency where the voices and interests of the people remain central to leadership decisions.

He reaffirmed the value of engaging directly with community members, noting that meaningful representation requires listening to the people, understanding their concerns, and working collectively towards a common developmental vision.

Also speaking, Hon. Chief Uche Okezie urged members of the group to remain committed to the Ozioma 2027 project and take its message of purposeful leadership and effective representation to their communities, churches, families, friends, and other social networks.

Hon. Okezie described Barr. Onyeobia as a man of integrity and sincerity whose commitment to the people’s interests, in his view, makes him worthy of their confidence. He also highlighted his longstanding relationship with the group’s leader, expressing optimism that their continued partnership, unity, and collective efforts would contribute to achieving their shared aspiration for a more progressive and effectively represented federal constituency.

The meeting further underscored the importance of grassroots consultations in strengthening relationships, building trust, and creating opportunities for citizens to participate in conversations about their political future.

As the 2027 elections approach, the Ozioma 2027 project continues to pursue grassroots engagement across the constituency, with an emphasis on unity, dialogue, and a shared commitment to better representation.

For Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia and his supporters, the message remains clear, meaningful leadership begins with listening to the people, building trust, and working together towards a better future for Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency.

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