2027: Political realignments emerge in Ogbaru as Chu-Chu Onyema prepares APGA campaign flag-off
By Sunny A. David, Onitsha
Political activities are gradually gathering momentum in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State ahead of the 2027 general election, with indications that some political stakeholders may be considering a change of allegiance ahead of the anticipated campaign flag-off by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate for Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Hon. Chukwuka Wilfred Onyema.
Onyema, popularly known as Chu-Chu, Ochendo and Akukalia, is expected to formally commence his campaign in the coming period, an event his supporters believe could attract political figures and individuals from different party affiliations into his growing political structure, popularly called the Ochendo Group.
The former member of the House of Representatives is being presented by his supporters as a grassroots politician with considerable experience in legislative representation, community engagement and philanthropic activities.
His traditional titles, Ochendo and Akukalia, are said by his associates to reflect his generosity, accessibility and contributions to the welfare of people in his community.
Onyema’s emergence as APGA’s candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election has generated political interest, particularly because of his previous association with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under which he represented Ogbaru Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.
Although his possible emergence on the APGA platform initially generated uncertainty in some political circles, the party eventually settled for him as its candidate, reportedly taking into consideration his legislative experience, political relevance and grassroots connections.
The development is believed to have triggered fresh political calculations in Ogbaru, with indications that some stakeholders across party lines may be considering supporting his ambition.
However, claims of an impending wave of mass defections have yet to be independently verified. Nevertheless, political discussions surrounding his anticipated campaign flag-off suggest that the event could provide an opportunity for some political actors to publicly declare their support for his candidacy.
Meanwhile, there are speculations about possible empowerment programmes being considered by one of his political opponents as part of efforts to strengthen support ahead of the election.
Some Onyema supporters have questioned the timing of such anticipated initiatives, arguing that empowerment and constituency development should be consistent responsibilities throughout a representative’s tenure rather than activities concentrated around election periods.
For many voters in Ogbaru, the forthcoming election is expected to provide an opportunity to assess the performance, accessibility and achievements of political aspirants beyond party affiliations.
Some constituents who spoke on the political situation expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as inadequate representation over the past four years, insisting that their votes would be determined by individual performance and tangible contributions to the constituency.
One of the constituents said the electorate had become more conscious of its political choices and would no longer vote solely on the basis of party loyalty or sympathy.
“We are wise now. We can no longer vote for a party or out of sympathy. What we will vote for is an individual, and that person is Chu-Chu Onyema, the person we know and whose impact we have seen,” the constituent said.
The voter added that previous political experiences had taught the people important lessons, stressing that personal credibility and proven performance would matter more than party popularity.
Although not necessarily APGA supporters, some constituents reportedly expressed confidence in Onyema because of their personal assessment of his political record.
Several factors are also expected to influence Onyema’s political prospects as the 2027 election approaches.
His previous experience in the House of Representatives is being regarded by supporters as an advantage, given his familiarity with legislative procedures, national politics and constituency representation.
His political associates also maintain that the Ochendo Group has established networks across communities, wards and youth organisations in Ogbaru, which could strengthen its mobilisation efforts.
His supporters further cite his philanthropic activities, community interventions and accessibility as factors contributing to his acceptance among sections of the electorate.
Another factor expected to feature prominently in the contest is APGA’s control of the Anambra State Government under Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, which could provide the party with an additional platform for political mobilisation and organisation across the state.
As political preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general election, Ogbaru is increasingly becoming a centre of attention as parties and aspirants position themselves for the contest for the federal constituency seat.
For Onyema’s supporters, the anticipated campaign flag-off represents an opportunity to demonstrate the strength of his political structure and attract support from individuals and stakeholders across different political parties.
Whether the anticipated political realignments will translate into significant defections and a broader shift in Ogbaru’s political landscape, however, remains to be seen as the 2027 election approaches.
