The Anambra government has backed Mr Mark Okoye, the immediate past Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget and Development, to represent Anaocha, Dunukofia and Njikoka Federal Constituency in the National Assembly.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, made this disclosure while addressing Local Government Area and Ward executives of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Njikoka Local Government Area, at Abagana, the council secretariat, on Wednesday.
Chukwulobelu said Okoye had been very resourceful to the Anambra government in the past 10 years where he served two administrations and helped in the development of the manifesto for the current administration.
He said that beyond being eminently qualified for the race, it was also fair that the people of the constituency should allow somebody from Dunukofia to represent them as they had not had a shot at the seat in 24 years.
Chukwulobelu recalled how Okoye was nominated for a commissioner’s job when he was 29 years old, but had to wait until he clocked 30, having served as Special Adviser on Investment, Executive Director at Anambra State Investment Protection and Promotion Agency at 27 years.
He said it was rare for government officials to back a candidate but Okoye is an asset that must be exploited at the highest level in the interest of the constituency and Anambra at large.
According to him, “we have come to tell the good people of Njikoka, Anaocha and Dunukofia, that based on the current state of the country, there is need to be careful in selecting those who will represent us in Abuja.
“Mark you, your son has served Mr Peter Obi, Chief Willie Obiano and now Prof Chukwuma Soludo. He would have become a commissioner if he wanted but he has decided to take stewardship from executive to the legislature.
“He has been in government and understands the working of government, at 35, there is virtually no government office that he has not been to and knows people, he is the best you can have.
“We are aware of his aspiration, the former governor supports him, the present governor supports him and I support him. Our appeal here today is that you, the great delegates of APGA, should make him your candidate for Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha Federal Constituency,” he pleaded.
In his remarks, Okoye said his aspiration was informed by the desire to serve people and help them achieve optimal dividends of democracy.
He thanked APGA faithful and the people of the constituency for their support, while assuring them that his representation would go beyond N200 million constituency project and ensure that the Soludo administration gets the best federal funding support possible to implement his agenda for Anambra.
He said he had also supported the party through some of the projects he attracted including the School Feeding Programme which had brought about N8 billion to the state and insisted that the vendors should be only APGA women leaders.
Chief Charles Okongwu, Chairman of APGA in Njikoka LGA, commended Okoye for his contributions and determination to serve the people.
Also speaking, Chief George Ozo, said he is pleased with the aspiration of Okoye and is convinced that his track record which stands him out among other aspirants, would see him through. (NAN)