The Traditional Ruler of Ibinaukwu Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Joseph Ukaoha Anyanta Enyi Ezeji Ibinaukwu Igbere, has declared his support for the Labour Party candidate for Bende Federal Constituency, Dr. Chima Anyaso, describing him as his son and the candidate capable of providing effective representation for the people.
Eze Anyanta made the declaration on Saturday at Onu Ibima , Igbere Junction, where he received Dr. Anyaso and his supporters, insisting that no father would abandon his son at a time when his support is needed.
The traditional ruler also dismissed what he described as a malicious publication allegedly sponsored by the camp of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, claiming that he had pledged his support for the Deputy Speaker’s bid for another term.
According to Eze Anyanta, he could not support a third-term bid when traditional rulers had previously reached an understanding concerning the rotation of the seat.
“How can I support someone for a third term when I was there in 2019 when the Traditional Rulers reached an agreement that after serving for eight years, Benjamin Kalu will give way for someone from Umunna?”
He maintained that he was not among leaders who speak from both sides of their mouths, stressing that his position on the 2027 election was based on his conviction and commitment to what he described as the agreed political arrangement.
Speaking directly about Dr. Anyaso, the traditional ruler said:
“Chima is my son and no father will abandon his son. For this election, this is his time and nothing can stop it.”
He subsequently assured Dr. Anyaso of his support and urged him to proceed confidently into the political contest, expressing optimism that victory would be achieved.
Responding to the warm reception, Dr. Anyaso expressed surprise and appreciation to the traditional ruler and the Council of Chiefs for what he described as an overwhelming show of support.
“I must confess that I am surprised by this kind of reception. If I am not a good son of this community, I don’t know why I would receive this kind of love,” he said.
Dr. Anyaso also appealed to those who may have been offended by recent political developments to forgive and embrace peace.
He alleged that some people had previously visited the community and used soldiers to assault members of the community, declaring that such incidents should not happen again.
“I have heard that some people came here and used soldiers to flog our brothers and sisters, but I want to declare that never again. Such won’t happen again. I plead with all those who are angry to forgive,” he stated.
The Labour Party candidate further argued that the people of Igbere had entrusted political power to their representatives and expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as repeated disrespect towards them.
“Since our people gave them power and it is insult upon insult that we are now receiving, we will take the power back from them,”
“What happened in Igberre few days ago will not repeat itself again “ he declared.
Dr. Anyaso, who has repeatedly described the 2027 election as his political moment, said the outcome of the election would demonstrate the strength of the people’s support.
“I have been saying that 2027 is my time and they think I am joking. Come 16th of January 2027, it will be clear from their eyes,” he said.
The event ended with Dr. Anyaso appreciating the people of Igbere for turning out to receive him. He thereafter joined the people in a procession from Igbere Junction to the Igbere Community Square.
