Ahead of the 2027 National Assembly elections, a leading aspirant for the Anambra North Senatorial seat, Dr Alex Obiogbolu, has pledged to end what he described as superficial constituency empowerment programmes such as the distribution of motorcycles and tricycles.
Obiogbolu, who currently serves as Special Adviser to Governor Charles Soludo on Political Matters, said his focus would be on pursuing meaningful opportunities that create sustainable jobs and economic value for youths in the senatorial district.
The aspirant made the remarks in Otuocha, Anambra East Local Government Area, during a consultative meeting with ward secretaries, chairmen and councillors of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) from Anambra East, Ayamelum and Oyi local government areas.
He told party stakeholders that effective representation at the Senate should go beyond token empowerment schemes, stressing that the people of Anambra North deserve quality representation capable of attracting tangible development to the zone.
According to him, his aspiration is driven by a desire to provide responsible and responsive representation in the Senate while ensuring that the district benefits more meaningfully from federal opportunities.
“I will be accessible to you. I promise to give Anambra North a strong voice on the floor of the Senate that all of you will be proud of,” Obiogbolu said.
He added that his legislative focus would include facilitating employment opportunities for young people and attracting federal projects to the senatorial district.
“I will work hard in Abuja to bring opportunities and jobs to our people. The era of empowering our youths only with motorcycles and tricycles must give way to initiatives that can truly transform their lives,” he said.
Right opportunities to youth
The Special Adviser noted that many youths in the district possess the capacity and potential to thrive if given the right support, including access to employment, skills development and sustainable economic opportunities.
Obiogbolu further stressed that the Senate requires individuals with experience and capacity.
He argued that voters must carefully assess the background and competence of those seeking elective office.
According to him, effective lawmaking and representation demand a deep understanding of governance, policy and political negotiation.
“The Senate is not a place for learners. It requires experience and the ability to articulate the needs of one’s people and secure the necessary support to address them,” he said.
Highlighting his political experience spanning over three decades, Obiogbolu recalled that during his tenure as Chairman of the Anambra State Local Government Service Commission, he facilitated the employment of 3,560 people into the local government system.
He said the experience reinforced his belief that political leadership should be used to improve the livelihoods of the people.
Journey in politics
Obiogbolu also spoke about his journey in party politics, noting that he spent over two decades in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before joining APGA.
He described himself as a loyal party member committed to strengthening the ruling party’s structure and electoral fortunes in the state.
The senatorial hopeful said his political philosophy has been shaped by the legacies of prominent Nigerian leaders whom he regards as role models.
He cited the late nationalist Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, former Premier of the old Eastern Region Dr Michael Okpara, and the late Kwara political leader Chief Olushola Saraki as figures who used political power to advance development in their respective regions.
According to him, their leadership styles demonstrated how political authority could be effectively deployed to uplift communities and expand economic opportunities.
Participants at the meeting, including ward officials and councillors from the three local government areas, expressed support for Obiogbolu’s aspiration.
Several speakers at the gathering said they were encouraged by his emphasis on practical empowerment and pledged to mobilise grassroots support for his senatorial bid.
The consultative meeting forms part of Obiogbolu’s ongoing engagement with party stakeholders across the Anambra North Senatorial Zone as political activities gradually build towards the 2027 general elections.
