'I Will Serve, Not Enrich Myself'- Ikezue Pledges Salary to Empowerment Programmes
Ven. Tochukwu Sagacious Ikezue, the Labour Party senatorial candidate for Anambra Central, has pledged to donate his entire four-year salary as a senator to youth and women empowerment programmes if elected in the 2027 general election.
Speaking during the party's senatorial primary election in Awka, Ven. Ikezue said the Southeast, particularly Anambra Central, requires stronger and more effective representation at the National Assembly. The cleric-turned-politician from Idemili North Local Government Area argued that inadequate representation has contributed to the region's inability to effectively project its interests at the federal level.
He expressed concern over what he described as the growing disconnect between elected officials and the people they serve, accusing some politicians of prioritizing personal comfort and luxury over the welfare of their constituents.
Ven. Ikezue also lamented the perceived silence of some political leaders on critical issues affecting the Southeast, including insecurity and attacks on Christian communities.
Outlining his vision for the district, the Labour Party candidate said his primary focus would be on empowering young people and women through targeted programmes designed to improve livelihoods and create economic opportunities.
According to him, many youths possess the talent, skills, and potential needed to succeed but lack the necessary support and opportunities. He therefore pledged to channel his Senate earnings into initiatives aimed at helping them become self-reliant and productive members of society. "I want to be the voice of the voiceless and ensure that public office serves the people rather than personal interests," Ikezue stated.
He added that his empowerment agenda would target at least 250,000 beneficiaries across Anambra Central, noting that investing in youths and women would help reduce poverty, tackle social unrest, and stimulate economic growth throughout the district.