The Labour Party candidate and a major contender for Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State, in the 2027 general elections, Chima Anyaso, has warned Nigerians, particularly youths, against electoral violence.
This was even as he entered into a social contract with the people of Bende, urging them not to succumb to any form of intimidation or malpractice aimed at short-changing and truncating their free will.
Anyaso gave the advice at Uzuakoli on Wednesday during the signing of the pact with the people of Bende Local Government Area and the presentation of his manifesto to stakeholders, LP stalwarts and residents of Bende Federal Constituency.
He said, “No election is worth your life. No politician’s ambition is worth destroying your future.”
Addressing stakeholders from the 13 wards of the constituency, including traditional rulers, pro-groups, youths and civil society groups, Anyaso called on young people not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of destruction during the election.
Presenting the pact containing his blueprint for the people if elected, Anyaso stressed, “The pact is a covenant midwifed through hard work and diligence, taking into consideration the interests and plights of communities in Bende Federal Constituency.”
The Igbere-born entrepreneur and business tycoon, while bemoaning what he described as deceitful and below-par representation of the people of Bende in terms of standard projects despite the huge resources accruing to the people, made it clear, “I would attract quality roads, hospitals, schools, and adequately fund skills acquisition and other opportunities for youths and women.”
He warned Nigerians against voting for candidates with questionable credentials in the 2027 general elections, saying democracy would make a resounding impact if candidates with good records were given the mandate to lead in all spheres.
According to him, the people of Bende should move beyond what he described as empty promises and a kangaroo style of representation, saying they should demand transparency, accountability and measurable results from those seeking to represent them.
He informed the people of his decision to serve for only two terms if elected, in line with what he described as the political understanding between the Umunna and Ikwuisii blocs that make up the constituency.
“I will respect the arrangement and would not seek a third term in office; I pledge to support an Ikwu Isii candidate at the appropriate time since I am from Umunna section,” he said.
Anyaso contended that a credible leader should create opportunities for younger generations rather than allow individuals to occupy political positions indefinitely. He encouraged the people not to be intimidated or discouraged ahead of the 2027 election.
“Do not be afraid. Do not allow anybody to intimidate you because you have chosen to support me. Do not allow anybody to tell you that this election has already been decided. We are winning this one. The power belongs to you,” he said.
He paid glowing tributes to the state governor, Alex Otti, and other leaders of the party, as well as the people, for their solidarity and massive support, and advised young people not to allow themselves to be recruited as destructive elements.
In their remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to Otti on Environment, Prof. Ijeoma Iheukwumere; the State Labour Party Chairman, Chief Peter Azubuike; the Abia North Coordinator of the State Campaign Council, Chief Emeka Charles-Kalu; the Mayor of Bende Local Government Area, Deacon Uwabunkeonye Bassey; the Director of the Chimaobi Anyaso Campaign Council, Pastor Okey Dike; and others thanked the candidate for the covenant, describing Anyaso as a formidable, reliable and tested leader.
