Nnewi Debate 2024: YPP Candidate Takes Centre Stage Amidst Grief And Calls For Local Autonomy

The recent Nnewi Debate 2024, organised by the Transformation Ambassadors of Nnewi (TAN), featured a stark contrast in emotions.

While Hon. Amb. Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe (YPP) mourned the recent death of Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, he also used the opportunity to promote Nnewi’s autonomy and the capabilities of his party’s candidate.

Uzokwe, who represents Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, called Ubah’s death a “monumental loss” not only for Nnewi, but for the entire world, due to his vast business empire and political influence.

He emphasised Ubah’s critical role in bridging the gap between Igbo and host communities, preserving local government autonomy, and ensuring the revival of Nigerian refineries.

“With Ifeanyi Ubah, Ndi-Igbo lost a powerful voice. Who will step in when we are at odds with our host communities? Who will fight for our local government’s autonomy? Who will ensure that our refineries are operational again?” Uzokwe enquired.

While acknowledging the significance of Ubah’s absence, Uzokwe emphasised his dedication to carrying the torch and upholding the late Senator’s legacy.

He advocated for a focus on capacity and merit, rather than political affiliation, in the upcoming local government elections.

“This election is about what you can provide to the people. Nnewi does not require State Government intervention,” he asserted. “The state should not play hanky panky with Nnewi’s rightfully allocated funds.”

Uzokwe described his party’s candidate, Hon. Paul Muoneke, who attended the debate, as a capable individual with a clear vision for Nnewi’s future.

Muoneke laid out his plans to improve security with CCTV cameras, modernise markets, empower youth through sports, and promote agricultural growth.

He hopes to transform Nnewi into a “real Taiwan of Africa,” with consistent power supply and infrastructure development.

While Muoneke’s presence demonstrated the YPP’s commitment to the election, the absence of other PDP, APC, and APGA candidates created a void. This disappointed the organisers, who hoped for a more inclusive and participatory debate in the future.

The Nnewi Debate 2024 highlights the region’s ongoing political and social dynamics.

While the recent death of a prominent figure casts a pall, there is a growing call for local autonomy and tangible development.

The upcoming elections will be a critical test of candidates’ promises and the public’s preference for Nnewi’s future.