The Labour Party candidate for Bende Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections, Chima Anyaso, has urged Nigerians, particularly youths, to shun electoral violence and resist attempts to manipulate the electoral process.
Anyaso also entered into a social contract with the people of Bende, urging them not to succumb to intimidation or electoral malpractice capable of undermining their right to freely choose their representatives.
He spoke in Uzuakoli on Wednesday during the signing of the pact with the people of Bende Local Government Area and the presentation of his manifesto to stakeholders, party leaders and residents of the constituency.
He said, “No election is worth your life. No politician’s ambition is worth destroying your future.”
Addressing stakeholders from the 13 wards of the constituency, including traditional rulers, pressure groups, youths and civil society organisations, Anyaso urged young people not to allow themselves to be used to perpetrate violence during the elections.
Presenting the pact containing his proposed development agenda, Anyaso said, “The pact is a covenant midwifed through hard work and diligence, taking into consideration the interests and plights of communities in Bende Federal Constituency.”
The Igbere-born entrepreneur criticised what he described as inadequate representation and poor infrastructure in Bende despite the resources accruing to the constituency.
He said, “I would attract quality roads, hospitals, schools, and adequately fund skills acquisition and other opportunities for youths and women.”
Anyaso also urged voters to scrutinise the records and credentials of candidates seeking elective positions in the 2027 elections, arguing that democracy would have greater impact when people with credible records were given the mandate to govern.
He urged the people of Bende to reject what he described as empty promises and demand transparency, accountability and measurable results from their representatives.
Anyaso also announced that he would serve a maximum of two terms if elected, citing the political understanding between the Umunna and Ikwu Isii blocs that make up the constituency.
He said, “I will respect the arrangement and would not seek a third term in office; I pledge to support an Ikwu Isii candidate at the appropriate time since I am from Umunna section”.
He said political leaders should create opportunities for younger generations rather than remain in office indefinitely.
Anyaso also urged his supporters not to be intimidated ahead of the election, saying, “Do not be afraid. Do not allow anybody to intimidate you because you have chosen to support me. Do not allow anybody to tell you that this election has already been decided. We are winning this one. The power belongs to you.”
He commended the state governor, Alex Otti, other Labour Party leaders and residents of Bende for their support, while again urging youths not to allow themselves to be recruited for violent activities.
Speaking at the event, the SSA to the Governor on Environment, Prof Ijeoma Iheukwumere; State Labour Party Chairman, Chief Peter Azubuike; Abia North Coordinator of the State Campaign Council, Chief Emeka Charles-Kalu; Mayor of Bende LGA, Deacon Uwabunkeonye Bassey; and Director of the Chimaobi Anyaso Campaign Council, Pastor Okey Dike, among others, commended the candidate for the pact.
They described Anyaso as a reliable and tested leader and pledged their support for his political ambition.
