Dr. Chiogo Constance Ikokwu, also known as Ugonecheora, has entered the race for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ticket to represent Idemmili North and South Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the House of Representatives. In an interview with LEO SOBECHI, she outlines the challenges women face in decision-making and elective politics.
Transition from Media to Politics
Dr. Ikokwu explained that her decision to transition from media to partisan politics was driven by a conviction that meaningful development requires direct involvement in governance. She stated that gaps in infrastructure, social services, and representation motivated her to seek elective office as a platform to address these challenges directly.
Women in Nigeria's Democracy
When asked if Nigeria's democracy over the past 27 years has empowered women, Dr. Ikokwu responded with both affirmation and caution. She acknowledged increased advocacy and landmark achievements but noted persistent structural barriers such as cultural norms, financial constraints, party gatekeeping, and violence that hinder full participation.
Economic Management: PDP vs. APC
Dr. Ikokwu rated the PDP's 16 years and the APC's tenure as mixed. She described the PDP era as having relative stability and growth in sectors like telecommunications and banking, but criticized overdependence on oil. The APC period, she said, has seen sluggish performance and now aggressive reforms amid inflation and currency instability.
Inspiration from Anambra's Female Governor
Regarding Anambra's history of having a female chief executive, Dr. Ikokwu said it was symbolic but not her primary inspiration. She emphasized that leadership is defined by competence, not gender, and encouraged women to rise to the challenge.
Performance of Women in Office
Dr. Ikokwu cited examples like Patricia Etteh and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to argue that women are capable of high-level performance, though subject to public debate. She stressed that their participation supports demands for increased opportunities, as competence is not gender-specific.
Reserved Seats for Women
On reserved seats, Dr. Ikokwu rejected the notion that they foster discrimination. Instead, she described them as corrective measures to address long-standing structural barriers. The goal, she said, is meaningful inclusion until the playing field is truly balanced.
2026 Electoral Act and 2027 Elections
Dr. Ikokwu expressed cautious optimism about the 2026 Electoral Act, noting that its effectiveness depends on implementation and institutional independence. She views the 2027 elections as a test of the law and democratic integrity.
Legislative Agenda for Idemili
Her agenda focuses on infrastructure renewal, human capital development, and economic empowerment. She plans to push for federal intervention on erosion-prone roads, improve healthcare access, and strengthen youth and women empowerment through skills acquisition.
Party Structure Challenges
Acknowledging that the NDC lacks strong structures in Anambra compared to APGA and APC, Dr. Ikokwu remains undeterred. She believes credibility, trust, and issue-based politics can overcome party machinery, and her grassroots mobilization has gained traction due to her sincerity and competence.
Message on Democracy and Voter Apathy
Dr. Ikokwu urged Nigerians not to disengage from democracy despite economic hardship and electoral distrust. She called for deeper engagement and accountability, stressing that the quality of the political system depends on citizens' willingness to participate.
