The lawmaker representing Obingwa-West State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, has empowered hundreds of Abians with motorcycles, vehicles and cash support as part of activities marking his birthday.
The large-scale empowerment programme, which attracted political stakeholders and community leaders across party lines, comprised the distribution of more than 150 motorcycles and several vehicles to beneficiaries, alongside other initiatives designed to boost small businesses, create employment opportunities and improve livelihoods in the state.
Beyond the distribution of empowerment items, the event also highlighted an unusual show of political unity as leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political groups converged under what participants described as a “rainbow coalition.”
The celebrant, Erondu Jnr, said the empowerment programme was part of his broader commitment to improving the economic wellbeing of the people through sustainable opportunities. He emphasized that empowering youths, women and vulnerable members of society remains central to his vision of community development.
He urged beneficiaries to utilize the 150 motorcycles, 15 vehicles and other support items effectively to grow their businesses and support their families.
The lawmaker also reaffirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, while appealing to the President to allow the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, to return to Abia State to contest the 2027 governorship election as the sole candidate of the rainbow coalition in order to reposition the state for greater development.
Representing the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rev. Emma Trumps Eke noted that empowerment initiatives such as the one organised by Erondu Jnr have helped reduce youth restiveness by providing economic opportunities and encouraging self-reliance.
Former deputy governor of Abia State, Dr. Chris Alozie Akomas, commended the Uhie-born legislator and announced additional financial assistance to beneficiaries and stakeholders. These include cash donations to individuals and groups from various local government areas.
Abia State chapter chairman of the APC, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, described Erondu Jnr as a rare leader committed to the development of his people. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, and former Deputy Governor Akomas in delivering democratic dividends to the people.
Chairman on the occasion, Dee Sam Nkire, expressed gratitude to God for blessing the people of Obingwa with what he described as a selfless leader committed to public service. Quoting Nigerian nationalist Nnamdi Azikiwe, the elder statesman said leaders who remember their people and treat them well will always earn the trust and support of the electorate.
He described Erondu as a leader with impeccable character who has consistently demonstrated compassion for the underprivileged.
Meanwhile, Senator Nkechi Nwaogu has lauded the scale of the empowerment programme, noting that it was uncommon for a first-term state lawmaker to undertake such a far-reaching initiative. She urged the people to continue supporting Erondu, stating that his performance had already demonstrated his capacity for higher responsibilities.
Chairman of chairmen (PDP) in the Rainbow Coalition, Barrister Emeka Onyenso, described the gathering as historic, noting that it was one of the rare occasions where members of the All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party jointly supported a grassroots empowerment initiative in Abia State.
Earlier, chairman of the organising committee, Hon. Chief Chidiebere Ihenyirimmadu, commended the lawmaker for his sustained commitment to grassroots empowerment. He recalled that Erondu had carried out a similar initiative barely three months earlier, noting that the programme reflects a genuine desire to uplift the people.
An APC chieftain, Dr. Nyerere Chinenye Anyim, commended the celebrant for remembering the needs of the people, expressing hope that the items distributed would significantly improve the economic conditions of the beneficiaries.
Former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Christopher Enweremadu, noted that the empowerment initiative stood out because it placed no financial burden on beneficiaries, unlike some schemes that eventually become liabilities.
Similarly, former member of the House of Representatives, Uzo Azubuike, stated that generosity is not a function of wealth but of goodwill. He commended Erondu for promoting unity across political divides and urged the people to continue supporting him.
Nigerian Ambassador-Designate to the Kingdom of Spain and former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, was represented by his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Nkechi.
The event underscored both the impact of grassroots empowerment and the growing spirit of political collaboration among leaders seeking to improve the lives of ordinary citizens in Abia State.