By Ifeoma Ejiofor
The standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the November 6 Anambra State governorship election Mr Valentine Ozigbo has expressed his readiness to serve and lead the people of the state into an era of prosperity.
Mr Ozigbo gave the assurance on Saturday, October 23, 2021, when he presented his manifesto to the leadership of Ohaneze Ndigbo at the King David Hotel, Awka.
The PDP candidate said that Anambra has continued to deteriorate because people have become accustomed to the status quo and are not angry enough to demand change.
“When I decided to run for office, a lot of people tried to discourage me. But I realised that even with my success in the corporate sector, I would never be fulfilled if I do not play my part in fixing my home, Anambra.
“When we travel abroad, we are treated as second-class citizens because we have failed to prioritise the development of our homeland. This election is a call to action. We must change our story now that we have the time.
“We don’t lack resources, people, and intellect. What we lack is exemplary leadership, entrenching competence, and imbibing a culture of continuous improvement.
“Nigeria holds the key to liberating the black race, and I believe the Igbos must play a vital role in that liberation.” Ozigbo pointed out.
He said that he is in governorship race so that Anambra can become an example of what can happen when a people tap into the unlimited possibilities available to them.
Ozigbo said emphatically that the November 6 election present a unique opportunity to get it right and set Anambra State on a path of sustainable development, which according to him is only possible when the right person, in the right party, emerged through the right process, and giving the right promise.
“I understand that Ohaneze Ndigbo is not partisan, but sometimes neutrality can be regressive. Therefore, we must deliberately choose to be part of the solution.
“We must define our expectations. Money should not be our priority. The right leader should have strong moral character, emotional intelligence, competence, capacity, and the ability to manage diversity.
“I am going into this election as an independent-minded human being who emerged through a free and fair process. I owe no bank, and I don’t have a godfather.
“Before the PDP primary election, we toured all 21 local government areas in the state and asked Ndi Anambra their expectations. Their answers formed the basis for the Ka Anambra Chawapu Manifesto.
“Our Cluster, Sector and Partnership approaches to development are well documented as has been widely accepted by a majority of Ndi Anambra. We will evolve a system that will make Anambra more competitive. We will engage the youths with entertainment, sports, and technology.” He said.
The Anambra State President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, High Chief Emeka Udedeme in his remarks pointed out that the group is apolitical but open to interacting with all candidates to see their manifesto and discuss their plans for Ndi Anambra.
Chief Udedeme hailed Ozigbo for running an exemplary campaign devoid of violence and negativity.
Also, South East Leader of Ohaneze Ndigbo, High Chief Ogene Okeke thanked the PDP candidate for meeting with the group, hailing him for his impressive presentation.