By Obianuju Azukaego
Political attention is turning to Ogbaru 1 State Constituency in Anambra State ahead of the 23 May 2026 All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) primary election, as several aspirants position themselves for the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Among the contenders is Hon. Kenneth Akwuobi, the incumbent Mayor of Ogbaru Local Government Area, who has formally declared his intention to contest for the Ogbaru 1 seat in the Anambra State House of Assembly. He will face incumbent lawmaker Hon. Noble Chukwunonso Igwe in what is expected to be a closely watched primary.
The APGA primary will be conducted under the Option A4 delegate system, which prioritises grassroots participation and has placed emphasis on candidates with strong community roots and local engagement.
Hon. Akwuobi, a resident of Ogbaru and Okpoko for more than four decades, announced his legislative ambition in April 2026. This marks his first attempt at elective office at the state level. Prior to his current role, he served as Special Assistant on Community Issues under former Governor Willie Obiano.
He initially emerged as Deputy Mayor on a joint local government ticket before assuming leadership of Ogbaru LGA following the prolonged absence of the elected mayor. He was subsequently confirmed as substantive mayor.
During his tenure, supporters point to several infrastructural and administrative interventions across the council area. These include the renovation of sections of the council secretariat, refurbishment of the legislative chamber, reconstruction of the environmental block, and rehabilitation of facilities for traditional rulers. A key ongoing project is the redevelopment of a previously burnt administrative building within the council secretariat, now being reconstructed into a multi-storey complex that will house halls and office spaces.
His administration has also reported improvements in local security, with both council staff and residents noting increased confidence in accessing public offices without harassment. In the area of social welfare, his tenure has been associated with interventions such as financial support for small business owners, assistance with rent payments for vulnerable residents, and medical aid for individuals in need.
As the primary election approaches, Akwuobi’s grassroots profile and administrative record are expected to shape the contest within Ogbaru 1.
Obianuju is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
