From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
Barrister Obiajulu Uja, a banker by profession, is among aspirants seeking to contest for the Oji River State House of Assembly seat in the 2027 general election under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In an interview with The Authority Newspaper, Barr. Uja said his ambition is driven by a desire to provide genuine representation for the people of Oji River Constituency.
He stated: “After due consultation with God, my family, and other known stakeholders of our great party, ADC, I have decided to present myself as an aspirant to contest in the primary election as our party’s candidate for the State House of Assembly (Oji River Constituency).”
Barr. Uja argued that the imposition of candidates by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) since the inception of the Fourth Republic has denied the constituency quality representation in the State House of Assembly, adding that he would make a difference if elected.
According to him: “Our constituency has always had representation during the Fourth Republic, largely under PDP rule. Each governor zones this position to their preferred candidate without considering the choice of the masses.
“However, I strongly believe that our constituency deserves better representation at this time, rather than electing legislators who align with the executive arm of government or frequently change political parties without regard for the people.”
He added that his decision to contest is rooted in a genuine desire to serve and provide purposeful, people-oriented leadership.
Barr. Uja highlighted his unblemished record of over 25 years in the financial sector.
“I have a background in service-oriented institutions. I have worked for over twenty-five years in different financial institutions without any record of fraud. My desire, if given the opportunity, is to continue to serve as a leader while respecting the decisions of our great party, which will ultimately benefit our people,” he said.
On his educational background, Barr. Uja disclosed that he obtained a Bachelor of Law degree (LL.B Hons, Second Class Upper Division) from Enugu State University of Science and Technology in 1998. He proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, Bwari, Abuja, and was called to the Nigerian Bar on October 13, 2000.
He noted that the time is ripe for him to venture into active politics, having acquired the necessary experience in service and leadership.
“Having gathered over twenty-five years of experience as a legal practitioner, banker, leadership coach, and lecturer, I believe the time has come for me to offer myself for political representation,” he said.
Barr. Uja also outlined his political background, which includes serving as a member of a 10-man Local Government delegates’ team of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC) in Utaziugwu Ward, Oji River, in 1991. He also served as Political Adviser to the Chairman of NRC in Ezeagu Local Government Area between 1991 and 1992.
During his student years, he was Speaker of the Law Students Association (LAWSA), ESUT, Enugu (1997/1998), and later served as Secretary of the Enugu State Students’ body at the Nigerian Law School, Bwari (1999/2000 set).
He expressed confidence in his chances, stating that he would defeat candidates of other political parties if given the ADC ticket.
“Having acquired academic and professional experience, I have established core values which I will uphold as your representative. These include integrity, honesty, character, accountability, service and development, people-oriented leadership, trust, compassion, and purpose.”
“I am a dedicated advocate of good governance. I bring experience, integrity, and vision to serve the good people of Oji River Constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly,” he added.
Barr. Uja further noted his commitment to humanitarian service, especially to widows, students, the less privileged, and other vulnerable groups within his community, including residents of Galaxy Quarters, Mile 2, Oji River, and his hometown in Achi.
“My genuine concern for the welfare of widows, the less privileged, students, and others in our communities is well recognised in Galaxy Village, Mile 2, Oji River, and Agbaobodoukwu Elu, Nkpokolo Autonomous Community, Achi,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to effective representation: “I believe our constituency deserves a representative who understands the people, feels their struggles, and works tirelessly for the overall development of the community.”
