ABIA |January 19, 2026 —
Hon Onyekwere Akym Uche, former Abia State governorship candidate and OAU foundation founder, has called on political leaders at all levels of government to deliberately reconnect with the grassroots, stressing that sustainable development and good governance can only be achieved when leaders remain closely attuned to the everyday realities of the people they serve.
He made this call while speaking on the growing disconnect between public office holders and local communities.
Onyekwere Akym noted that leadership loses its moral authority and effectiveness when it becomes distant from the electorate. According to him, frequent engagement with communities helps leaders to better understand pressing needs, shape people-oriented policies, and build public trust. He emphasized that grassroots engagement should go beyond election periods and ceremonial visits.
“Leadership is not meant to be exercised from a distance,” Akym said. “When leaders walk away from the grassroots, they lose touch with the pain, hopes, and expectations of the people. Governance must be people-centered, and that begins with listening to those at the base.”
He further argued that many policy failures stem from inadequate consultation with local communities, adding that grassroots voices often hold practical solutions to societal challenges. Onyekwere Akym Uche maintained that town hall meetings, community dialogues, and regular constituency interactions should be central to public service.
“The grassroots are not just voting blocs; they are partners in development,” he stated. “If leaders take time to engage artisans, traders, youths, women, and traditional institutions, they will design policies that truly address unemployment, insecurity, and social welfare.”
OAU also cautioned against elitist politics, which he described as a major barrier to inclusive development. He urged leaders to shed the mindset of status-driven governance and embrace servant leadership anchored on humility and accountability.
“Public office is a trust, not a privilege,” Akym said. “Leaders must return to the communities that gave them the mandate and be accountable, transparent, and accessible. That is the true test of leadership.”
He concluded by encouraging emerging leaders and public office holders to prioritize grassroots connection as a core leadership value, noting that nations grow stronger when governance is rooted in the lived experiences of the people. According to him, reconnecting with the grassroots is not just a political strategy but a moral responsibility essential for national progress.
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