Photos: Igbo-Ukwu Rolls Out the Drums for Senator Uche Ekwunife, Endorses Her Joint Ticket with Ukachukwu

It was a moment of pride, unity, and celebration in Igbo-Ukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, as the ancient community hosted a grand homecoming reception in honour of Senator Uche Ekwunife (CON), fondly known as Ifekaolaedo and Ada-Ugo Igbo-Ukwu. The colourful event, held at the Central School grounds, brought together a large gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, women and youth groups, and jubilant residents who turned out in their numbers to celebrate the distinguished lawmaker and endorse her joint ticket with Dr. Nicolas Ukachukwu under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The day began with a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Highness, Igwe Alex Azike, the traditional ruler of Igbo-Ukwu, where Senator Ekwunife received royal blessings and prayers for divine wisdom, protection, and success in her political journey. Igwe Azike described Ekwunife as a virtuous and courageous daughter who has brought honour and visibility to Igbo-Ukwu through her humility, compassion, and leadership. “Ekwunife’s light is our light; when she shines, Igbo-Ukwu shines with her,” the monarch declared, calling on the people to unite behind her APC candidacy.

The atmosphere at the reception was charged with excitement as cultural troupes, dance groups, and traditional performers entertained guests. Speaker after speaker took turns to extol Senator Ekwunife’s achievements and reaffirm their support for her joint ticket with Ukachukwu.

Ichie Ezechukwu Umeokwenna recounted how the late Emmanuel Ogudebe, Ekwunife’s father, first initiated the construction of the road across the Microfinance Bank, describing the Ogudebe family as one known for selflessness and service. Similarly, Ichie Fabian Okeke and Ichie Ezechukwunoyelum paid glowing tributes to her late parents, Emmanuel and Lucy Ogudebe, noting that the senator inherited their generosity and passion for humanity.

In his remarks, Sir Jerry Jay Onyejekwe lamented the neglect of Igbo-Ukwu in previous administrations, particularly under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), assuring that the community would now rally behind the APC. “They have done all the roads in Isuofia but left us behind,” he said. “This time, we will vote massively for our daughter and for the APC.”

Former Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikem Uzoezie, also pledged his support, promising both financial and logistical backing for the campaign. He commended local stakeholders for their efforts, noting generous contributions such as Ari-King Ezeonyechienaedu’s ₦1 million donation and Ezedike Obidike’s supply of customized campaign materials.

In her emotional response, Senator Ekwunife expressed heartfelt gratitude to her community for their love, prayers, and unwavering support. She recalled being the first woman to receive a traditional title in Igbo-Ukwu before venturing into politics, a recognition she said reflected her long-standing commitment to service. “Igbo-Ukwu is on the ballot, not just Ekwunife,” she declared to thunderous applause, promising to continue representing the interests of her people with integrity and passion.

The Organizing Committee Chairman, Okafor Uzu Ugochukwu, assured that Igbo-Ukwu would surpass its previous record of 4,000 votes, pledging total grassroots mobilization for the November 8 election.

As the event drew to a close, the air was filled with music, dancing, and chants of solidarity. The grand reception not only celebrated Senator Ekwunife’s achievements but also reaffirmed the unity, pride, and collective resolve of the Igbo-Ukwu community to stand firmly behind their daughter as she continues her journey of leadership and public service.