By Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka
The traditional ruler of Isiagu ancient kingdom in Awka South LGA of Anambra State, Igwe Austin Nwankwo, has told politicians gunning for various elective positions in the 2023 general election that political affiliation will not save them from defeat; unless they do their homeworks properly.
Addressing journalists on Friday, October 7, in his palace, during the 2022 New Yam festival of the community, the monarch said that unlike previous elections, 2023 will be a different ball game, because, according to him, voting pattern will base on individual politician’s personality, popularity and acceptability.
“As the 2023 general election draws closer, politicians must take note that it is no longer business as usual. Electing any person into any executive or legislative position will base on the individual’s acceptability and past record.
“Gone are the days when the voter takes a politician’s party platform into consideration. 2023 will be entirely different. There will be no room for rigging and vote buying. People will vote their representatives based on popular choice. The new electoral guideline will not allow for manipulation, rigging or vote buying,” he said.
He urged politicians to go down to their people poling units and wards to identify with their people; warning that “today, election is no longer won in Abuja.”
Igwe Nwankwo also thanked Governor Charles Soludo for appointing one of his subjects as a transition committee chairman of Awka South LGA; saying that it was the first time a son of the community is occupying the position.
Speaking on the New Yam Festival, Igwe Isiagu noted that the event, marked every first Friday in October, is a time the community give thanks to God for blessing them with bountiful harvest; as well as God’s blessings in other spheres of life.
The monarch also thanked his subjects for their support, and promised that he would continue to pilot the affairs of the community in a way that peace and prosperity will continue to reign supreme.
The 2022 New Yam festival also featured conferment of chieftaincy title on a daughter of the community, Chief Ekemezie, as ‘Ada Isiagu’ for her exemplary leadership roles among the womenfolk in the community.
It also featured parade by masquerade groups, native dances, shows and exhibitions, among other side attractions.
The event attracted politicians, traditional rulers, friends, well-wishers, and townspeople.
