ENUGU, Nigeria — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate for Enugu State, Obodoeze Ocho Chukwuma, has outlined a comprehensive governance blueprint aimed at addressing poverty, insecurity, unemployment, and infrastructure deficits in the state ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Speaking in a Democracy Day message, Chukwuma said his proposed agenda would focus on measurable outcomes and transparent governance, arguing that democratic leadership should be assessed by its impact on the lives of citizens rather than political rhetoric. He maintained that many residents of Enugu State continue to face significant economic and social challenges despite decades of democratic governance.
The ADC candidate cited poverty statistics and economic hardship as evidence that urgent intervention is needed. According to him, a large proportion of residents struggle with multidimensional poverty, while rising unemployment has left many young people without sustainable means of livelihood. He said the situation has been particularly difficult for graduates seeking employment opportunities and families battling the rising cost of living.
Chukwuma also highlighted infrastructure challenges affecting communities across the state, pointing to deteriorating roads and erosion-related damage that have disrupted transportation and economic activities in several areas. He noted that some farming communities have become increasingly isolated due to poor road networks, limiting access to markets and reducing economic opportunities for rural residents.
The governorship hopeful further expressed concern over the condition of public education, arguing that learning outcomes must improve significantly if the state is to achieve long-term development. He stressed the need for investments in schools, teacher training, and educational accountability to ensure children acquire the skills necessary to compete in an increasingly modern economy.
As part of what he described as the “Ochoudo 2027 Agenda,” Chukwuma pledged to prioritise security and the rule of law if elected governor. He proposed a combination of community-based policing initiatives, technology-driven surveillance systems, and expanded public lighting infrastructure to strengthen security across the state’s local government areas. According to him, creating a safer environment is essential for economic growth and social stability.
On infrastructure and economic development, he promised to focus on rural connectivity by rehabilitating key roads and improving access between agricultural communities and urban markets. He argued that better transportation networks would help farmers move produce more efficiently, boost local commerce, and reduce poverty in rural areas.
The ADC candidate also proposed tax reforms designed to ease the burden on traders, artisans, and small business owners. He said his administration would seek to eliminate multiple levies and introduce incentives for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in order to stimulate economic activity and encourage entrepreneurship.
Education formed another major component of his policy agenda. Chukwuma pledged to provide free education from primary school through junior secondary school while ensuring that schools remain functional and adequately staffed. He said improving access to quality education would help reduce inequality and create opportunities for future generations.
He further promised to govern through open budgeting, regular public reporting, and citizen engagement mechanisms aimed at improving transparency and accountability. According to him, public officials should be evaluated based on performance and service delivery rather than political messaging.
With political activities gradually building toward the 2027 election cycle, Chukwuma said his campaign would focus on presenting practical solutions to the challenges confronting residents of Enugu State while seeking public support for his vision of governance centered on measurable development outcomes.
