The Labour Party senatorial candidate for Anambra Central, Venerable Tochukwu Sagacious Ikezue, has pledged to dedicate his entire salary as a senator to youth and women empowerment programmes if elected into the National Assembly.
Speaking to journalists in Awka, during the party’s primary election, Ikezue attributed the turnout of party members and supporters to the commemoration of Biafra heroes, describing the day as significant to the people of the Southeast and a factor that energized political participation.
The cleric-turned-politician, who hails from Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, lamented what he described as the underrepresentation of Anambra Central and the Southeast in the Senate. He argued that the region needs more vocal representatives capable of defending the interests of the people at the national level.
According to him, the lack of strong representation has contributed to the inability of the Southeast to effectively project its concerns before the federal government. He maintained that more courageous voices from the region would help address issues affecting the people and ensure that their interests are adequately protected.
Ikezue also criticized some current political office holders, accusing them of prioritizing personal enrichment over the welfare of constituents. He cited the acquisition of luxury vehicles by public officials as evidence of misplaced priorities, insisting that public resources should be directed toward improving the lives of citizens.
He further expressed concern over what he described as the silence of many elected representatives regarding attacks on Christians and other security challenges facing communities in the Southeast.
Outlining his development agenda, Ikezue said his primary focus would be the empowerment of youths and women. He noted that many young people possess talents and skills but lack the support needed to achieve their full potential.
Ikezue pledged to channel his Senate salary throughout his four-year tenure into empowerment programmes, with a target of reaching no fewer than 250,000 youths and women across Anambra Central Senatorial District.
“I want to be the voice of the voiceless and ensure that public office serves the people rather than the personal interests of elected officials,” he said.
Ikezue maintained that empowering young people and women would help reduce poverty, curb restiveness, and create opportunities for economic growth across the district.
