As the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) under Prof. George Chima prepares for the much-anticipated local government elections, all eyes are on Okpuala-Ngwa, the ancestral home of the Ngwa nation, where the contest for the Labour Party ticket to become the Mayor of Isiala Ngwa North is intensifying.

With political maneuvers, alliances, and power plays in full swing, the contenders for the mayoral seat—C.Y. Nwankwo, Ishmael Cyril, and Innocent Chiedozie Uruakpa—are set to face off in a heated race that promises to reshape local politics.

Mayor C.Y. Nwankwo

Mayor C.Y. Nwankwo: The Incumbent Business Mogul
Hail from Ahiaba-ubi in Isiala Ngwa North, Mayor C.Y. Nwankwo, a successful businessman and the current Transition Committee Mayor, is no stranger to local politics. Known for his philanthropic efforts and financial support to political figures, Nwankwo has built a strong base of loyal followers in the community.

However, his path to securing the Labour Party ticket is fraught with challenges. The Otawike group, led by Hon. Ginger Obinna Onwusibe, has dominated Isiala Ngwa North politics for over a decade, and their support is critical. Recent disagreements with Hon. Onwusibe, the House of Representatives member for Isiala Ngwa North and South, have weakened Nwankwo’s chances. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic, relying on the support of the Abia Arise structure, spearheaded by Governor Alex Otti, and his goodwill with the people of Isiala Ngwa North to secure the nomination.

Ishmael Cyril

Ishmael Cyril: The Navy Seal’s Political Debut
A former United States Navy Seal, Ishmael Cyril is making his debut in the local political scene. Hailing from Obikabia, Cyril has garnered attention for his philanthropic work, but he remains an unfamiliar face in Isiala Ngwa North politics. Despite his newcomer status, Cyril enjoys significant backing from the influential Otawike group and its leader, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe.

While Cyril is seen as a strong contender, he faces a dilemma: his ties to both the Otawike and Abia Arise factions leave him navigating between competing political alliances. Nevertheless, his supporters believe he is well-positioned to win the party ticket, with some insiders speculating that Governor Otti’s administration may favor Cyril for his experience and ability to manage local government funds effectively.

Amb. Innocent Chiedozie Uruakpa

Amb. Innocent Chiedozie Uruakpa: The Rising Star
A businessman of international repute, Innocent Chiedozie Uruakpa, from Umuoha, has thrown his hat into the ring for the mayoral seat. Uruakpa, who previously ran as the Labour Party candidate for Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency in the 2023 general elections, is positioning himself as the candidate of equity and fairness, highlighting that Umuoha has yet to hold any significant political office.

Uruakpa enjoys widespread support from the Otawike group, but his close relationship with Hon. Ginger Onwusibe could prove to be a double-edged sword. While it strengthens his political base, it may also create friction with other factions. Still, Uruakpa’s supporters are confident in his ability to secure the party’s nomination, pointing to his strong showing in the 2023 elections and his deep ties within the community.

The Battle Ahead
As the race for the Labour Party ticket intensifies, the political landscape of Isiala Ngwa North is set for a dramatic showdown. With Mayor C.Y. Nwankwo, Navy Seal Ishmael Cyril, and Amb. Innocent Chiedozie Uruakpa all vying for the prestigious mayoral seat, the stakes have never been higher.

Will Nwankwo’s political experience and ties to Governor Otti’s and his structure carry him to victory, or will Cyril’s fresh perspective and support from the Otawike group propel him forward? Or could Uruakpa’s call for equity and fairness resonate with the electorate? The road to Okpuala-Ngwa is paved with uncertainty, and only time will tell who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes political contest.

Loyalty, Betrayal all set to play out.