By Chinazaekpere Chinwendu
Abia State |January 6, 2026 —
Abia North–born international businessman, philanthropist, and former Abia State governorship candidate, Hon Onyekwere Akym Uche (OAU), has called for a decisive shift from party-centred politics to people-focused representation, warning that continued underrepresentation could undermine the future of the zone.
Speaking on the political direction of Abia North, OAU stressed that leadership must be measured by impact, courage, and advocacy rather than blind loyalty to party structures.
Akym, who is also the founder of the OAU Foundation, lamented that Abia North has for too long suffered from weak representation that fails to amplify the collective interests of its people at critical decision-making levels. He argued that when political actors prioritise party convenience over constituency needs, development stalls and the voices of ordinary citizens are silenced.
“Abia North deserves strong voices that can speak truth to power, not representatives who are afraid to act because of party considerations,” Onyekwere Akym said.
“Our people need leaders who understand that their primary loyalty is to the electorate, not to party elites.”
According to him, effective representation goes beyond occupying public office; it requires courage, vision, and a deep understanding of local challenges. He noted that communities across Abia North are yearning for leaders who can articulate their concerns on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment with clarity and persistence.
“When representation becomes party-centric, the people lose,” Akym stated. “Development does not happen by slogans or party alignment alone. It happens when leaders are bold enough to demand what is rightfully due to their constituents.”
The former governorship candidate emphasised that Abia North must not be mortgaged by political underrepresentation, warning that silence and complacency at the corridors of power carry long-term consequences. He urged political stakeholders and elected officials to reassess their priorities and recommit themselves to genuine service.
“Our future should never be negotiated away in the name of political loyalty,” he said.
“Abia North needs representatives who can negotiate firmly, challenge injustice, and deliver tangible results for the people.”
OAU also highlighted the role of citizens in demanding accountability, noting that a politically conscious electorate is essential for strengthening democracy. He encouraged the people of Abia North to support leaders who demonstrate competence, integrity, and a proven commitment to community development.
“Leadership is not about titles; it is about responsibility,” Akym added. “The people must insist on leaders who have the capacity and the will to stand for them, regardless of party lines.”
Through his philanthropic initiatives under the OAU Foundation, Onyekwere Akym Uche said he has continued to engage with grassroots communities, gaining firsthand insight into their needs and aspirations. He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for policies and leadership approaches that place the welfare of Abia North at the centre of governance.
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