Ohaji-Egbema/Oguta/Oru West: No To Eugene Dibiagwu’s Re-Election

As the 2027 general elections approach, the people of Ohaji-Egbema/Oguta/Oru West Federal Constituency must honestly assess the performance of those entrusted with representing them. In doing so, many residents have concluded that Hon. Eugene Dibiagwu failed to meet the expectations of the office he has occupied for almost four years.

The fundamental duty of a legislator is to provide effective representation, facilitate development, attract projects, sponsor meaningful legislation, and serve as a voice for the people. Unfortunately, Hon. Dibiagwu has fallen short in these critical areas.

Despite spending nearly four years in the National Assembly, little has been achieved in terms of tangible development across the constituency. We must call a spade a spade. We have not identified significant projects, employment opportunities, or impactful interventions facilitated by the lawmaker. At a time when the constituency faces serious economic hardship, unemployment, and infrastructural challenges, we expected stronger leadership and more visible results.

Rather than fostering broad-based engagement across the three local government areas that make up the constituency, Ohaji-Egbema, Oguta, and Oru West, Dibiagwu's activities and outreach have largely been concentrated in Oguta leaving many communities neglected and excluded.

Questions have also been raised about his claims of distribution of empowerment programmes and palliatives . Who and who benefited from the so called distribution of cassava stems, palm seedlings, fertilizers, motorcycles, minibuses, sewing machines, grinding machines, bags of rice, and other packages. Many residents across the constituency claim they neither witnessed nor benefited from these initiatives. Is it that the legislature feted only his friends, political loyalists and associates? Enough of all these audio projects and palliative. Enough of audio bills and motion.

Representation is not merely about publicizing programmes. We must ensure that the opportunities reach all corners of the constituency fairly and transparently. Many communities in Ohaji-Egbema and Oru West have expressed concerns that they have been largely left out in the so called interventions.

Equally troubling is the perception that Hon. Dibiagwu has not distinguished himself legislatively. Constituents have struggled to identify landmark bills, motions, or debates championed by their representative that directly address the needs and aspirations of the constituency. In a video I watched, he was shivering and stammering when he was addressing the house, finding it hard to communicate fluently. At a time when lawmakers across the country are vigorously pursuing projects and advocating for their constituents on the floor of the House, our own representative is finding it hard to debate at the floor of the house. This is not acceptable. We deserve a visible and effective voice in Abuja.

Leadership requires courage, accessibility, humility, and consistent engagement with the people. Our legislator has not adequately consulted community leaders, stakeholders, and constituents, while concerns about arrogance and detachment from grassroots realities have continued to grow.

Despite these concerns, Hon. Dibiagwu is now seeking a second term in office under the popular slogan that “ranking counts.” Which kind ranking be that? Is it sidon dey look ranking? While legislative experience can be valuable, experience alone is not enough. A second term should be earned through measurable performance, effective representation, and demonstrated commitment to the welfare of the people. Call me all the names you like but the truth must be told.

The issue becomes even more concerning when viewed against the backdrop of growing insecurity in the constituency. In April 2026, gunmen attacked the convoy of Eze Paulinus Ekwueme, the traditional ruler of Ochia Autonomous Community in Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area, killing him and five others before setting their bodies ablaze. The shocking incident sent fear throughout the constituency.

More recently, at least five people, including two security operatives, reportedly lost their lives during an attack on Abacheke Community in Ohaji-Egbema. These tragic incidents demanded strong and visible leadership from elected representatives. However, we are disappointed by what we perceived as silence and a lack of urgency from both Hon. Eugene Dibiagwu and the member representing Ohaji-Egbema in the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Uzoma Osuoha.

At a time when communities are grappling with insecurity, economic hardship, and a lack of development, the people deserve representatives who are proactive, responsive, and deeply connected to their struggles. The verdict is clear, the constituency deserves more effective representation, greater accountability, stronger advocacy, and leadership that prioritizes the collective interest of the people above personal or political ambitions. We say "No" to the re-election of Hon. Eugene Dibiagwu.

-Kenneth Uwadi is the Coordinator, Youths for Human Rights Protection and Transparency Initiative