ABIA|September 22, 2026 —
Youths from Ikwuano and Umuahia have expressed support for the second-term bid of the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Obi Aguocha, urging constituents to sustain what they described as a developing culture of responsive and people-oriented representation.
The youth stakeholders, who spoke against the backdrop of increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, said continuity in representation should be anchored on the assessment of a lawmaker's record, accessibility, legislative engagement and commitment to the interests of constituents.
They maintained that the 2027 electoral conversation should focus on the issues that directly affect the people, including education, youth development, infrastructure, healthcare, employment and other areas requiring effective representation at the federal level.
According to the group, Aguocha's first term has provided him with valuable experience within the National Assembly and an understanding of the challenges confronting Ikwuano, Umuahia North and Umuahia South, making continuity an important consideration in the forthcoming election.
The youths further argued that effective representation requires sustained engagement with constituents and consistent follow-through on issues raised by the people. They therefore called for a political culture in which elected representatives are assessed on their record of service rather than on sentiments or short-term political considerations.
They noted that Aguocha has remained involved in constituency engagements and legislative activities since his election to the House of Representatives in 2023. His supporters have also pointed to interventions in education and other areas as part of the basis for seeking another term. Recent reports indicate that his scholarship initiatives have benefited constituents, while he has also highlighted legislative efforts aimed at attracting federal institutions to the constituency.
The youth leaders said the constituency needs sustained representation capable of building on existing engagements rather than repeatedly starting afresh with every electoral cycle.
They also urged young people across the three local government areas to take a more active role in the political process, stressing that youths constitute an important component of the electorate and should participate constructively in shaping the future leadership of the constituency.
While calling for peaceful and issue-driven political campaigns, the group appealed to political actors and their supporters to avoid divisive rhetoric and allow voters to freely examine the records, programmes and capacity of all aspirants.
The youths maintained that political competition should be centred on ideas and development, rather than personal attacks, sectional sentiments or attempts to undermine the democratic process.
They further called on the people of Ikwuano, Umuahia North and Umuahia South to remain attentive to the issues that affect their communities and to demand accountability from all elected representatives and candidates seeking their mandate.
Reaffirming their support for Aguocha's bid for another term, the youth stakeholders said their position was informed by their assessment of his representation and their desire for continuity and consolidation in the federal constituency.
As political activities intensify ahead of 2027, they urged all stakeholders to place the collective interests of the people above personal ambitions, maintaining that the ultimate objective of political leadership should be the advancement and wellbeing of the communities being represented.