A federal lawmaker, Amobi Ogah, has charged Nigerians to redefine the essence of governance by demanding accountability and transparency from those they elected into office.

Mr Ogah, representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, said the essence of holding office holders accountable was to ensure non-abuse of public trust.

He said this during the second edition of his empowerment programme held at Onuaku Primary School Field, Uturu, in Isuikwuato Local Government Area.

Mr Ogah called for fundamental shift  in the perception of public office by Nigerians “so that leadership positions could be seen as a sacred trust and not a platform for personal gain.

“I am convinced that holding public office is a real privilege bestowed by the people and must be approached with a deep sense of responsibility and service.

“Since holding public office is a privilege and not a business venture, we must, therefore, change our mindset, accordingly. The prevailing attitude of viewing political positions as avenues for wealth accumulation has greatly hindered national development.

“And genuine leadership must be anchored on selfless transparency and unwavering commitment  to the welfare of the people.”

He extolled Abia State Governor Alex Otti for his dynamic and transformative leadership, describing him as “a governor that listens to his people.”

He charged both the elected and electorate to continue to support his administration for it sustain the dividend of democracy they were enjoying.

Mr Ogah, a chieftain of the Labour Party, warned his constituents to be wary of unscrupulous politicians, who would want to buy their votes, pointing out that such people had nothing to offer.

He further assured them that he remained committed to pursuing policies and initiatives that would enhance their socio-economic wellbeing.

He said, “I am very passionate about making a difference and impact in the lives of my people.”

He listed some of his achievements in his two years in office, including some infrastructure development in the constituency, and promised to do more.

Mr Ogah distributed  different items, including mini-buses, cars, tractors, tricycles, grinding machines, and sewing machines, among others, to his constituents.

In a remark, the governor lauded Mr Ogah for his impactful representation.

Mr Otti, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, said, “What is happening today is what leadership and representation should be all about.

“It is not speaking all the grammar and all the noise-making on social media without impacting on the constituents.”

Also, the Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Abubakar Kabir, said that Mr Ogah is one of the strong voices, who had been a part and parcel of the activities in the National Assembly.

Mr Kabir, represented by a fellow lawmaker, Mark Essien, urged Mr Ogah’s constituents to vote for him for a second term in 2027.

In a goodwill message, the Chairman, House Committee on Financial Crimes, Ginger Onwusibe, described the empowerment programme as a demonstration of true and responsive representation.

(NAN)