Udenwe Gains Momentum as Constituents Reject Incumbent Rep In Abakaliki/Izzi Fed. Constituency

Growing dissatisfaction over representation in Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency has sparked a wave of support for renowned Izzi writer and author of Years of Shame, Obinna Udenwe, whose campaign posters are now trending across social media.

The development follows an inconclusive meeting of Izzi stakeholders to endorse the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Emmanuel Uguru, who is seeking a return to the House of Representatives under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Uguru, who succeeded former lawmaker Sylvester Ogbaga after his 16-year tenure, is facing mounting criticism from constituents who accuse him of poor performance and failure to address pressing local concerns.

Some stakeholders alleged that his empowerment initiatives—including the distribution of sewing machines and reported Christmas gifts—fell short of expectations, describing them as inadequate and out of touch with the needs of the people.

The lawmaker has also been criticised for limited engagement with constituents, with some calling for generational change in representation. Amid the discontent, supporters of Udenwe are urging Governor Francis Nwifuru and key political stakeholders in Izzi to consider the author as a credible alternative, citing his intellect, capacity, and grassroots appeal.

As political consultations continue, the contest for the Abakaliki/Izzi seat appears set to intensify ahead of party primaries with constituents threatening that the return of Hon. Uguru would leave the party supporters with no option than to massively vote any opposition candidate in the 2027 general election.