Frontline aspirant for the House of Representatives in Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo federal constituency of Anambra State, on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa, has denied sponsoring youths of the constituency to cast aspersions on the incumbent lawmaker representing the federal constituency, Hon. Peter Uzokwe.
The youths of the federal constituency recently tipped Amb. Ikebunwa as their choice aspirant for the House of Representatives in 2027, while warning the party and its presidential aspirant, Mr Peter Obi, to disassociate themselves from the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Uzokwe, over alleged abysmal performance at the National Assembly.
The move triggered political tension within the party in particular, and the federal constituency in general, with supporters of Hon. Uzokwe accusing Amb. Ikebunwa of sponsoring hate speech against the Rep member ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Meanwhile, in an interview on Monday, the frontline aspirant, Hon. Ikebunwa, appealed to his supporters and party members to refrain from negative political attacks and divisive media engagements against fellow aspirants within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
He said, “My attention was drawn to publications and reports concerning a co-aspirant and respected member of the party, Hon. Peter Uzokwe. My political philosophy remains rooted in party supremacy, internal democracy, mutual respect, and issue-based campaigns.
“Aspirants seeking elective positions should be assessed based on competence vision, character, and capacity to serve, rather than through campaigns capable of creating unnecessary tension within the party.”
Amb. Ikebunwa expressed appreciation to his supporters and well-wishers across the constituency for their continued loyalty and encouragement, but urged them to avoid any form of personal attacks or negative publications targeted at other aspirants or party faithful.
According to him, “such actions do not reflect my values or the peaceful and progressive political movement I seek to build.
“My priority remains constructive engagement with constituents – presenting my vision for effective representation, and contributing positively to the unity and growth of the party.
“I have confidence in the ability of party leaders, members, and constituents to make informed decisions based on credibility, competence, and genuine commitment to public service.”
He called on his supporters to remain peaceful, responsible, and respectful in all political activities, emphasising the need for unity and maturity among members of the political family.
He added that peaceful coexistence and collective commitment to progress would strengthen the party ahead of future political contests.
