Okigwe North Stakeholders Present Benwosely as Possible Successor to Onuoha for 2027
By Anselem Anokwute
Stakeholders and political leaders of the Okigwe North Federal Constituency in Imo State have presented Pastor Kelechi Benwosely as a possible replacement for the current member representing the constituency, Hon. Miriam Onuoha, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The constituency comprises Isiala Mbano, Onuimo and Okigwe Local Government Area made their interest known during a stakeholders’ meeting held last Saturday at Rockview Hotel in Owerri, where participants expressed confidence in Benwosely, describing her as a technocrat with a track record of humanitarian service and community development.
According to the stakeholders, Benwosely has contributed significantly to the growth and empowerment of people in the state through job creation initiatives and support programmes targeted at women, youths and widows.
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Charles Ezekwem (Babatunde) said, Benwosely possesses the integrity and character required to represent the constituency effectively at the National Assembly.
He expressed confidence that she would not disappoint the people if given the opportunity to serve, adding that her reputation for diligence, integrity and Godliness makes her a credible alternative.
Other speakers at the event also expressed confidence in Benwosely, noting that she comes from a respected and reputable family in Umunkwo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of the state.
They highlighted her contributions to community development, including the empowerment of over 200 women through programmes linked to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), as well as several youth empowerment initiatives.
The stakeholders further revealed plans to sign an agreement with her to ensure inclusiveness and accountability in governance should she eventually secure the mandate to represent the constituency.
Chairman of Onuimo Local Government Area, Dr. Emeka Obi, who attended the meeting, said he was invited by the conveners and expressed solidarity with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the constituency.
Obi, however, urged political actors to tread carefully to avoid division, noting that differing opinions exist on which local government area should produce the next representative.
He advised stakeholders to remain united and align with the leadership of the state governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, stressing that party members should support whoever emerges through the party’s decision.
“We must remain resolute in our support for the party and avoid actions that could create unnecessary political tension,” he said.
Chief Ezekwem also noted that the consultations were aimed at mobilising support for good governance and reinforcing loyalty to the APC leadership under Governor Uzodimma.
He described Benwosely as a committed supporter of the governor’s policies and governance style.
Responding, Pastor Benwosely said she was inspired by the administration of Governor Uzodimma and his commitment to development in the state.
She expressed readiness to contribute more meaningfully to the development of Okigwe North if given the opportunity to serve in the House of Representatives.
According to her, the planned agreement with stakeholders would ensure that she serves with diligence, integrity and inclusiveness.
“I am committed to being a voice for the people and to attracting more dividends of democracy to the constituency,” she said, adding that her ambition is not about competition but about service and making a positive difference.
Several political leaders and stakeholders attended the meeting, including Chief Stanley Nzekwe, Chief Tony Black Nduka, Chief Mrs. Izuchi Duru, Hon. Uchechukwu Echewodo, women leaders, youth representatives and other prominent figures from the constituency.
