By Ekunkonye Junior, Abuja
A serving Anglican priest, Rev Goddy Okonkwor has endorsed Dr. Okwudili Ezeike’s move to represent Aguata Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, ahead of 2027.
A former governorship contestant in Anambra under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Okonkwor said he knows Ezeike personally and vouched for his competence, discipline, and commitment to public service. He described the US-based attorney and health expert as a well-educated lawyer, PhD holder, nurse, and philanthropist.
According to the cleric, Ezeike has consistently supported people in the diaspora and at home, organizing free medical outreaches and providing assistance without seeking personal gain. He noted that Ezeike leads Nigerian communities in the US and Canada, a role he said would not be entrusted to someone lacking integrity and leadership qualities.
Okonkwor dismissed suggestions that Ezeike’s time abroad disconnects him from the realities of Aguata. He said the aspirant has visited Nigeria more than seven times between January and now, arguing that he is “more street sensitive” and understands the needs of the people better than many resident politicians.
The former NNPC manager contrasted what he called “stomach-driven politics” with Ezeike’s approach. He said Nigeria’s problems stem from politicians who spend heavily to secure office only to recover the money through corrupt practices once elected.
He recalled turning down requests for money during his own political outings, saying he had trained several people through university and could not be expected to fund entire communities. “Somebody has to start somewhere. It is what is inside that person that matters,” he said.
Okonkwor stated that he is prepared to put his money behind Ezeike because he believes the aspirant has the character to serve and not to enrich himself. “If I see that in him, I walk away. But as at now, I am ready to support him,” he said.
He urged delegates of the Nigeria Democratic Congress to scrutinize candidates carefully and choose individuals who can defend the party and the people in the National Assembly. He warned against electing candidates who would trade their mandate for rice and money.
Okonkwor said the NDC should avoid repeating the mistake of fielding unqualified candidates simply because of party popularity. He stressed that the party needs people who can stand firm and articulate the interests of Aguata and Anambra.
Concluding, he said his decision to support Ezeike is based on conviction, not party affiliation. “I don’t belong to their party, but if he succeeds, I will put my money behind him,” the retired accountant and priest declared.