From David Onwuchekwa, Nnewi
The Labour Party (LP) candidate to represent Awka North and South district in the Federal House of Representatives, Prof Oby Orogbu, has promised quality representation to her constituents if voted to office in the 2023 general election.
Prof Orogbu, a lecturer and Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka said she decided to quit her job at the institution to run for the position as a result of her love and passion for her people.
Speaking to party stakeholders at Amawbia, the lawmaker hopeful said her emergence as the Faculty Dean after polling 120 out of 160 votes cast to defeat her two male contenders was a demonstration of her capability and competence.
“My quitting the office of Dean of Management Sciences as well as my job was informed by my desire to serve my people, to deliver dividends of good governance and to provide selfless service and leadership of inclusion.
“I’ll ensure that projects are not only attracted to my constituency but will also see to its execution and completion. We’ll also empower youth and women, including activating moribund youth development centre so as to fight crime and poverty in my district,” she said.
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Admitting the fact she was venturing into a field dominated by men with its huge financial implications, Orogbu expressed confidence of victory, describing the election as a win-win battle.
She said: “There is no cause for alarm. People are ready to fund my project because they are tired of the status quo and desirous of change and purpose-driven leadership.
“Besides, I’m very fit intellectually, morally and healthwise, I’m physically strong not just to run campaigns, but to ensure effective supervision of projects, if elected.
“I’m not going into the election with the mind of losing. It’s as good as won. If it happens the other way round, however, as a Professor, consultant and entrepreneur, I have so many alternative things I can do. But then, I’m not going to lose the election.”
Earlier, President General, Amawbia Town Union, Engr. Godwin Aronu advised his people to vote for competence and experience.
“We can’t afford to continue to mortgage our future on the platter of money. We’re not supporting her just because she’s our daughter. We’re projecting her because of competence, reliability and capability,” he said.
Deputy Director, UNIZIK Business School, Chinedu Onyeizigbe described Orogbu as capable, reliable and industrious, adding that Amawbia community was lucky to have her.
“UNIZIK as a community is crying because she’s living us. Prof. is someone you can trust and she has a heart of gold.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, she gave financial support to younger lecturers. She also used to give monthly stipend to some others,” he added.