By: Newsbreeze Crew
APC Stakeholder, Onowu Kizito Ijeh Speaks on Oshimili North Politics, Party Strength and Hon. Innocent Esewezie’s Candidacy.
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next election cycle, stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili North Local Government Area are intensifying efforts to strengthen the party’s grassroots presence and mobilize support across the ten wards of the council.
In this interview, an APC stakeholder shares insights on the state of the party in Oshimili North, its strategies for expansion, challenges and prospects, as well as the candidacy of Hon. Innocent Esewezie for the Delta State House of Assembly. The stakeholder also speaks on the expectations of constituents and the party’s vision for the future of the local government area.
Excerpts:
How would you assess the current strength of the APC in Oshimili North ahead of the next election?
The APC has continued to grow in Oshimili North. We have active structures across the wards, and more people are showing interest in the party because of our grassroots engagement and outreach programmes.
What strategies is the party putting in place to expand its grassroots support across the wards?
We are strengthening our ward, unit and cells structures, engaging youths and women, and maintaining regular interaction with community leaders and stakeholders. Our focus is to ensure that the party remains connected to the people.
What are the major challenges facing the APC in Oshimili North, and how is the party addressing them?
Like every political party, we face challenges such as voter apathy and misinformation. We are addressing these through voter education, community engagement, and effective communication of our programmes and policies.
How would you describe the relationship between the party leadership and members at the grassroots level?
The relationship is cordial and productive. The leadership maintains open communication with members, and grassroots leaders are actively involved in decision-making processes.
What achievements of the APC do you believe will resonate most with voters in Oshimili North?
Many people appreciate efforts aimed at infrastructure development, economic growth, youth empowerment, and social intervention programmes. These are issues that directly affect the lives of the people.
Why do you believe Hon. Innocent Esewezie is the right candidate to represent Oshimili North in the Delta State House of Assembly?
Hon. Esewezie has demonstrated commitment to community development and has remained accessible to the people. His understanding of local challenges and his willingness to serve, make him a strong contender?
What qualities distinguish Hon. Esewezie from other contenders in the race?
He is known for his grassroots connection,tested ,trusted, accessibility, and passion for community service. He also has a scorecard of performance as Oshimili North executive chairman.
He also has a track record of supporting initiatives that benefit ordinary citizens.
What specific issues affecting Oshimili North has Hon. Esewezie pledged to address if elected?
He has spoken about the need for improved infrastructure, youth empowerment, better educational opportunities, healthcare development, and increased attention to rural communities.
He has pledged strong advocacy for our people, especially in regards to boundary issues that are plaguing our different communities.
How has Hon. Esewezie engaged with communities and stakeholders across the local government?
He has maintained regular interaction with community leaders, youth groups, women associations, and other stakeholders through meetings, consultations, and development initiatives.
What feedback have you received from constituents regarding his candidacy?
Many people have expressed appreciation for his accessibility and his involvement in community matters. They want a representative who understands their needs and remains connected to the grassroots. They expect a robust engagement between the government and them with Him acting as a bridge.
How confident is the APC that Hon. Esewezie can win the House of Assembly election?
We are optimistic about our chances because of the support we are receiving from party members and many residents. However, elections are decided by voters, and we remain focused on engaging the electorate.
What factors give you confidence about the party’s chances in Oshimili North?
The strength of our grassroots structure, his performance score card, the commitment of party members, and the positive response we continue to receive from communities give us encouragement.
Again, the cohesion within the party have been fantastic.
As a journalist, I know you are aware of how internal wrangling scatter parties especially after Party Primaries, but here, we have all put the primaries behind us and continued to work as one.
Which areas or voting blocs do you consider crucial to the APC’s success in the election?
Every ward and every voter is important. Our strategy is to engage all communities and ensure that no area is overlooked.
What message does the party have for undecided voters in Oshimili North?
We encourage voters to examine all candidates and parties carefully, consider their records and plans, and participate actively in the democratic process.
If elected, what should constituents expect from Hon. Esewezie during his first term?
Constituents should expect active representation, regular consultation with communities, advocacy for developmental projects, and efforts aimed at addressing local concerns. I expect a good representation
Finally, how optimistic are you about APC’s performance in Oshimili North?
We are encouraged by the level of support we are receiving.
We have done tours visiting various communities and the feed backs have been fantastic
Nevertheless, we remain committed to working hard, reaching out to voters, and presenting our vision for the future of Oshimili North.
It is an ongoing process and we won’t relent until the day of elections
Thank you so much for engaging me and have a good day.