By Jude Michael
Former federal lawmaker representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Ekwusigo Federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Chris Azubogu, has disclosed that he is being pressured to contest for Senate to replace the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
Ubah who represented Anambra South Senatorial Zone, had died in July this year, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet to announce a new date for the conduct of a by-election to fill the position.
Azubogu, a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), had in 2023 vied for the seat with the late Ubah, but was defeated.
In a statement by his media office, Azubogu said he would only consider making consultations after the burial of Ubah whom he described as his brother.
The statement read: ‘Due to ceaseless daily inquiries by a multitude of admirers, esteemed political allies and supporters of Hon. Engr. Chris Emeka Azubogu, seeking to know his position on the Anambra South Senate seat which became vacant as a result of the unfortunate and regrettable demise of the Senator representing the Zone, (his brother and townsman) Distinguished Sen. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, CON, may his soul rest in peace) it has become imperative for his media office to issue a public statement in that regards.
‘Hon. Azubogu feels deeply humbled and most grateful for the outpouring of love, expression of confidence in his tested and trusted ability to effectively represent the zone.
‘He further assures them of his unwavering interest in serving the good people of the zone in any capacity they deem fit.
‘The Azubogu Media Office wishes to observe that Mr. Project (Azubogu) being a native of Nnewi, is still in mourning mood over the loss of his townsman and brother (Ifeanyi Ubah).
‘It will be un-Igbo for him to throw his hat in the ring or commence serious consultations as regards contesting the vacant seat while the remains of his brother are yet to be committed to mother earth. Especially since the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet to release a time-table for the anticipated bye-election.
‘He implores all who wish him well and earnestly want him to re-contest the vacant Senate seat to be patient and remain prayerful until the appropriate time.’
