By Nkechinyere Ewa
A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Chief Justus Okorie, has declared his intention to contest for the Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Okorie, a renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and community leader from Ishiagu in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, made his declaration during a media briefing on Saturday in Abakaliki.
The traditional title holder of “Ikemba Ishiagu” said he would contest under the platform of the NDC, pledging to provide effective and people-oriented representation for the people of the constituency if elected.
The aspirant formally signaled his ambition after picking up his expression of interest and nomination forms at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking during the briefing, Okorie said his aspiration was driven by a strong desire to deliver quality representation, responsive leadership and sustainable development to the people of Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo local government areas.
According to him, his mission is to ensure that the dividends of democracy are felt by ordinary citizens through effective lawmaking, empowerment programmes, infrastructural development and improved welfare for youths, women and vulnerable groups.
The Abuja-based businessman said he would prioritise policies and programmes capable of stimulating economic growth, creating employment opportunities and improving access to education, healthcare and rural infrastructure.
He stressed that representation should go beyond occupying political office, insisting that elected officials must remain accessible and accountable to the people.
“As someone who has spent years serving humanity through business, philanthropy and community development, I understand the challenges facing our people.
“My aspiration is anchored on service, inclusiveness and the determination to improve the living conditions of our constituents.
“The federal constituency, which comprises Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo local government areas of Ebonyi, has enormous human and natural resources but requires purposeful leadership to unlock its full potential,” Okorie stated.
The aspirant also commended the leadership qualities of Peter Obi, describing him as a visionary leader with the competence and integrity needed to reposition Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians across political, religious and ethnic divides to unite in support of Obi’s presidential ambition in order to rescue the country from its socio-economic and political challenges.
“Nigeria is at a critical point where citizens must place national interest above sectional considerations and support credible leaders capable of restoring hope, strengthening institutions and rebuilding public trust in governance,” he said.
Okorie maintained that the country’s growing insecurity, unemployment, economic hardship and poor governance required bold and sincere leadership committed to transparency, accountability and national development.
Political observers believe his entrance into the race may reshape the contest for the Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency seat, considering his grassroots appeal, philanthropic record and longstanding relationship with communities across the area.
Supporters and stakeholders who accompanied him to pick up the nomination forms described him as a bridge-builder and compassionate leader with the experience and capacity to attract meaningful development to the constituency.
If he secures the party’s ticket, Okorie is expected to face the incumbent lawmaker representing the constituency, Chief Nkemkanma Kama of the APC.
Born on March 31, 1974, Okorie is a Microsoft Certified Professional and a graduate of Physics with specialisation in Electronics from the University of Port Harcourt. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Abuja, alongside multiple postgraduate qualifications from local and foreign institutions, including Harvard University.