Journalist turned politician Constance Ikokwu, has careworn the necessity for credible Nigerians to actively take part in politics, arguing that significant change will solely happen when accountable residents step ahead to guide.
Talking throughout an interview with ARISE NEWS on Thursday to debate her political aspirations, Ikokwu described her transition from journalism to energetic politics as a journey rooted in goal and a want to maneuver past merely criticising the state of the nation. She challenged the widespread perception that politics is inherently soiled, insisting that such perceptions persist as a result of well-meaning people typically refuse to become involved.
She mentioned, “If all the nice individuals stand apart, then in fact, the incorrect individuals will take over.”
Reflecting on her profession, Ikokwu described journalism as a deeply fulfilling career that formed her sense of goal by way of amplifying voices, informing the general public, and holding energy to account.
She additionally acknowledged the position of media management in her journey, noting that alternatives and assist helped her develop and thrive within the career.
Explaining her transfer into politics, Ikokwu mentioned her experiences overseas uncovered widespread frustration amongst Nigerians concerning the nation’s state, however minimal efforts to deal with its challenges.
Based on her, “Why will we complain and do actually nothing? Is it not higher to search out sensible options?”
She famous that pursuing a doctoral diploma additional clarified her sense of goal, prompting deep reflection about her position and the place she might take advantage of influence.
Ikokwu mentioned she selected to return to Nigeria regardless of alternatives overseas, emphasising her want to contribute on to addressing challenges going through the nation and the African continent.
“I needed to go the place the issues have been… the place I might be most helpful to the individuals,” she mentioned.
On her selection of political platform, Ikokwu defined that shifting political dynamics within the Southeast influenced her determination to align with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which she described as an rising coalition of various voices.
She, nevertheless, acknowledged the uncertainty inside Nigeria’s political panorama, noting that developments stay unpredictable.
“I’m not a soothsayer… you by no means know what is going to occur tomorrow,” she mentioned.
Ikokwu added that, within the absence of impartial candidacy in Nigeria, aspiring leaders should work inside current political events, expressing hope that her chosen platform will present the chance to signify her individuals successfully.
She additional highlighted evolving political alignments in Anambra State, observing that conventional get together strongholds are regularly shifting, with growing competitors for public assist.
Ikokwu maintained that sustained engagement, credible management, and responsiveness to residents’ wants will likely be crucial for any political get together searching for relevance and belief among the many individuals.
Addressing questions on Anambra State politics, Ikokwu mentioned the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) stays influential however geographically restricted.
“APGA is basically confined to Anambra State in its present type,” she mentioned, including that though the get together has traditionally maintained a robust presence within the state, “its affect is regularly declining.”
She additional famous that shifting political alliances are reshaping the area’s panorama, stating that APGA’s affect is more and more challenged by national-level realignments and voter motion linked to high-profile political figures.
Ikokwu additionally noticed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has minimal grassroots presence in Anambra, describing it as “actually non-existent” when it comes to native followership.
She maintained that political relevance within the state will depend upon events’ means to ship outcomes and earn public belief, as voter loyalties proceed to evolve.
Goodness Anunobi
Times Nigeria