In a significant political development in Ebonyi State, Osbourne Umahi, the 27-year-old son of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has officially declared his intention to contest for the chairmanship position of Ohaozara Local Government Area.
A High-Profile Declaration Backed by Supporters
The young Umahi made his entry into the race over the weekend by obtaining the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination and expression of interest forms for a reported sum of N30 million. His declaration was marked by a show of force as a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters accompanied him to the APC state secretariat located in Abakaliki, the state capital.
At the party secretariat, he was formally received by members of the APC State Executive Council. The delegation was led by the party's state chairman, Stanley Okoro-Emegha. The event underscored the political weight carried by the Umahi name within the state and the ruling party's structures.
Pledges to Empower Youth and Continue Father's Legacy
Addressing party faithful and his supporters, Osbourne Umahi expressed gratitude to the people of Ohaozara for nominating him to run. He vowed not to disappoint the confidence placed in him. Outlining his vision, the aspirant stated that his administration would have a sharp focus on youth empowerment, describing young people as the backbone of meaningful development.
Furthermore, he pledged to sustain and build upon the legacy of his father, former Governor David Umahi, particularly in the area of infrastructure development across the local government area. This connection to a known record of infrastructural projects is expected to be a central theme of his campaign.
Road to the Primaries
The ruling APC has scheduled its local government primaries for January 25, 2026. This internal party contest will determine who flies the party's flag in the subsequent local government election for Ohaozara. Osbourne Umahi's entry, backed by significant financial commitment and visible grassroots support, positions him as a formidable contender in the upcoming primary election.
This move highlights the continuing influence of political families in Nigeria's sub-national politics and sets the stage for an intriguing electoral contest in Ebonyi State.
