When the tenure of the immediate past House of Representatives member, Hon. Uko Nkole, came to an end in 2023, it was naturally expected — based on the unwritten power rotation within the federal constituency — that the next representative would emerge from Ohafia. Among the qualified aspirants who stepped forward was Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, a refined gentleman from a reputable family, widely respected across the constituency.

His emergence came with great expectations. It was never going to be an easy ride, especially considering the political undercurrents from powerful stakeholders who lost out in the process and may be waiting for opportunities to strike back.

As someone deeply invested in the development of Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, I have been vocal in questioning the tangible dividends of democracy delivered to our people. While at surface level it may seem like not much has been done, a closer look beneath the smokescreen reveals impactful strides that deserve commendation.

Take for instance the recent empowerment program that trained and supported widows and women in vocational skills—hairdressing, soap making, makeup artistry, and more. While some have used it as a talking point for criticism, my findings suggest it was a deliberate target of propaganda aimed at distracting the public from Hon. Osonwa’s broader efforts.

Indeed, notable achievements under his watch include the installation of solar-powered streetlights that have ended night-time darkness in areas like Amuma Ohafia and Mgbaka Road in Ekelogo, Ebem Ohafia. Clean, solar-powered water systems are now functional in Ugwuakuma and Umuenye, Arochukwu — impacting lives at a very practical level.

Also nearing completion is a 3km interlocked road in Ohafia — the first of its kind, an initiative that reflects the vision of a forward-thinking leader. In the education sector, he has facilitated scholarships for indigent JAMB candidates and constructed classrooms in Ukwa Primary School (Nkporo), Abam High School (Ozu-Abam), and Abia Ohafia. These are not photo-op projects — they are legacy footprints.

Furthermore, his interventions in providing solar streetlights in markets and motor parks, as well as the planned rollout of a foreign scholarship scheme, are reflective of a lawmaker who listens and responds to the pressing needs of his people.

Yes, our constituency still has a long list of needs, and no one should suggest that all is perfect. However, it is only fair that we assess our leaders with a balanced and objective lens. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Constructive engagement and genuine advocacy, not propaganda, should define our civic participation.

Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa has shown a good level of commitment that inspires confidence. With sustained public support and honest criticism where necessary, we can spur him to do even more.

#Prince_Udensi
Amangwu Ohafia
19/07/2025