The Labour Party candidate for Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, Hon. Anthony Ikenna Okafor, has officially flagged off his campaign for the 2027 general elections after receiving royal blessings from the traditional ruler of Nnewi, His Royal Majesty Igwe Kenneth O. Orizu III.
The flag-off ceremony took place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the candidate’s father’s country home in Egbu Umuenem, Nnewi.
The event drew a large crowd of supporters, constituents, members of Umunna and the Umuenem family, friends, associates, and political stakeholders from across the three local government areas.
Speaking after receiving prayers and blessings from Igwe Orizu, Hon. Okafor expressed gratitude to the monarch and the people.
“With God, the people, and the blessings of our elders, I look forward to a new chapter of purposeful and people-centred representation,” he said.
“As I aspire to represent the good people of Nnewi North/South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, I assure our good people of quality representation.”
“I am deeply grateful to His Royal Majesty, Igwe Kenneth O. Orizu III, for his wisdom, guidance, prayers, and royal blessing.”
Addressing the gathering, the Nnewi-born entrepreneur and politician said his decision to contest was driven by the need for representation that prioritizes the welfare of the people.
“My mandate, if given, will be to attract real development and give our constituency a strong voice at the National Assembly,” Hon. Okafor stated.
He listed youth empowerment, support for small businesses, infrastructure development, and improved healthcare as key areas of focus.
“As an entrepreneur, I understand the challenges facing our people, especially our traders, artisans and young graduates. We need a representative who will turn these challenges into opportunities,” he added.
The campaign launch marks the formal commencement of Hon. Okafor’s bid to represent Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo in the House of Representatives under the Labour Party platform in 2027.
Party leaders and community stakeholders at the event pledged support for his candidacy, describing him as a grassroots mobilizer with the capacity to deliver.