By Ngozi Okoli
Indigenous people of Okpoko Ogbaru I Community in Ogbaru Local Government Area(LGA) have called for political justice and inclusiveness into the Federal level of Government.
They urged stakeholders and political parties to allow the community to produce the next member representing the Ogbaru 1 Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives during the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on behalf of the community during a town hall meeting, Sir Benjamin Onwukwe lamented on what he described as years of political marginalization, noting that despite Okpoko’s large population and consistent electoral support, the community have yet to be given the opportunity to occupy the federal legislative seat.
According to him, Okpoko remains one of the most politically active communities in Ogbaru and has played a major role in the electoral successes recorded by several politicians over the years.
Also speaking, prominent stakeholder, Chief Patrick Ndukwe described the agitation as a legitimate demand for equity, fairness and justice.
He noted that allowing a competent indigene of Okpoko to represent Ogbaru 1 in the Green Chamber would not only correct a longstanding political imbalance but also strengthen unity and deepen grassroots participation in the democratic process.
In his contribution, Mr. Collins Uchendu said the issue goes beyond politics, insisting that the people of Okpoko have endured years of exclusion despite their loyalty and support during elections.
“People cannot continue to produce the votes, mobilize the crowds, defend the party and still be treated like outsiders in their own federal constituency,” he said.
He said that the key political positions and appointments within the area have consistently been dominated by other communities, leaving Okpoko sidelined.
“They take the Local Government chairman slots, commissioner positions, House of Representatives seat, Senate seat, and other appointments, yet expect Okpoko people to remain silent and continue voting every four years. That is no longer acceptable,” he said.
Many concerned indigenes at the meeting appealed to all political parties, particularly the All Progressives Grand Alliance, to consider credible candidates from Okpoko during the nomination process ahead of the 2027 elections.
The community members expressed confidence that, if given the opportunity, an indigene of Okpoko would provide effective representation and attract meaningful development projects to the entire Ogbaru Federal Constituency.
Ngozi is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
