By Sir Amby Uneze KSJI 


The dye is cast and the atmosphere is gathering momentum when a people should stand up and be counted. Anyone who allows his father's name to get lost in the scheme of things definitely will be hunted for life by the ancestors. Therefore, it becomes pertinent to wake up when the ikoro sounds so as to be awake and retain or regain your relevance during the fight.


Ndi Mbaise are people of immense prowess with large population, education, wealth blessed by God to be champions of a race. In Igboland, Mbaise people are noted for her bravery from creation, hence they are widely regarded as the most populus entity in Igboland (Mbaise nwere mmadu).


Coming down to the discussion at the moment and as the political landscape of Nigeria continues to evolve, Ndi Mbaise sub zone stands at a point where a choice must be made. The upcoming 2027 elections present a pivotal opportunity for the people of Owerri Zone to make a decisive choice for their future and Mbaise is a commanding force to decide who represents Owerri zone at the Senate. In this context therefore comes a man of note, gentle in style and in performance, trustworthy, integrity personified, character endowed and a man of vision and mission. Sir Basil Maduka emerges as a compelling candidate. He is one who embodies the aspirations and concerns of the people. It is crucial that we unite behind him in this journey, as he is, indeed, our only joker for the Owerri zone Senate.


History beckons on him as the  only senatorial candidate from Mbaise. It is also commendable that Sir Basil Maduka comes from Ezinihitte Mbaise which shares the same federal Constituency with Ahiazu Mbaise. Record shows that Ezinihitte Mbaise has not produced a Senator since the current political dispensation which started in 1999. The only attempt made was during the Governor Evan Enwerem's regime around 1992 when Senator Bright Nwanne, a young, vibrant and enterprising gentleman spent only 18 months as a senator.


Moreover, as the flame of the  Labour Party continues to spread across the Owerri zone because of Sir Basil Maduka who is flying the party's flag for the Senate, the people of Owerri federal Constituency and the Mbaike federal Constituency join hands with the Mbaise nation, to provide a smooth ride for Sir Basil Maduka.


Furthermore, it is important to highlight the senators who have represented Imo East (Owerri Zone) in the Nigerian Senate from 1999 to date, in chronological order: Evan Enwerem (1999–2003) - 4  years (Mbaike), Amah Iwuagwu/Eze Ajoku (2003–2007) - 4 years (Mbaike/Owerri federal), Chris Anyanwu (2007-2015) - 8 years (Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala), Samuel Anyanwu (2015–2019) - 4 years (Mbaike), and Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi (2019–present) - 8 years (Owerri Federal Constituency).


From the foregoing analysis, it has become obvious that the only Federal Constituency that has not tested the Senate seat since 1999 is the Ahiazu/Ezinihitte where Sir Basil Maduka hails from. 2027 brings the best bet to reconcile this anomaly and give the Ahiazu/Ezinihitte Federal Constituency a sense of belonging. Ndi Mbaise this is your chance to have a Senator in 2027 because nobody is sure of the governorship in 2028.


Sir Basil Maduka is not a newcomer to the political arena. With a wealth of experience in governance and community service, he has demonstrated a commitment to the people of Ndi Mbaise. His sound mind has prepared him with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of legislative responsibilities. His ability to connect with the high and mighty including constituents and understand their needs is unparalleled, making him a standout candidate in a crowded field.


Maduka's vision for the Owerri Zone is rooted in the principles of inclusivity and progress. He has a comprehensive plan that addresses critical issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. His focus on building a robust educational framework is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to empower the youth and provide them with the tools necessary for success. By prioritizing these areas, Maduka is not just campaigning for votes; he is advocating for the sustainable development of our area. He is worried that as influential and prominence Mbaise is; it lacks a university, federal presence, and so on.


In a time when political integrity is often questioned, Sir Basil Maduka stands out as a beacon of trustworthiness. His reputation for honesty and transparency resonates deeply with the electorate. Our people are increasingly looking for leaders who prioritize ethical governance, and Maduka exemplifies these values. His commitment to accountability will ensure that the interests of Ndi Mbaise are safeguarded at every level of governance.


The youth of Ndi Mbaise represent a significant portion of the electorate, and their engagement is vital for the future of our area. Maduka recognizes this and has made it a cornerstone of his mission. By actively involving young people in his political discourse and addressing their concerns, he is fostering a new generation of leaders. His initiatives aimed at youth empowerment will not only resonate with young people but also inspire a sense of ownership and responsibility among them.


One of Maduka's most admirable qualities is his collaborative approach to politics. He believes in building bridges with various stakeholders, including other political parties and community leaders. This willingness to engage in dialogue and seek common ground is essential for fostering a united front in addressing the challenges faced by our people. In a time of division, Maduka's leadership promises to bring our zone together for the greater good.


Finally, as we look ahead to the 2027 elections, it is imperative that we rally around Sir Basil Maduka. His proven leadership, community-centric vision, integrity, and commitment to youth engagement make him the ideal candidate for the Owerri Senate. The stakes are high, and the future of Ndi Mbaise depends on our collective decision. Let us not leave Mbaise open; let us stand united behind our only joker, Sir Basil Maduka of Labour Party, and pave the way for a brighter future for the Owerri Zone.