Aba is more than a city; it is a legacy, a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and unyielding spirit of the Igbo people. Having grown up in Aba-Ngwa and served the good people of Ariaria in Aba North, I speak not just as an observer but as a proud product of a city that turns a nobody into somebody. Aba has made many rich, who came to the town with absolutely nothing.
From its vibrant markets to its reputation as a hub of industrial excellence, Aba stands as a beacon of innovation and self-reliance. One of its greatest treasures is the accommodating and hospitable nature of the Aborigines of Aba, particularly the warm-hearted people of Ngwa. Kai! Their ability to embrace strangers and provide an environment where anyone can thrive is a rare quality, found only in some of the most civilized and progressive cultures in the world, like Americans and Europeans, Ndi ngwa nma nma nu. This distinctive spirit of inclusiveness has been instrumental in making Aba a melting pot of progress and innovation.
Ndi Aba, Have We Forgotten Our Legacy?
Aba has always been a symbol of selfless leadership and collective progress. But have we forgotten the legacies that once defined our city? We must remember the visionary leadership of the late De Sam Mbakwe, whose dedication to the development of the Southeast and Aba remains unmatched till today. He was a leader who prioritized service and left indelible marks of development legacies that no contemporary leader has truly followed or built upon. Leaders like Rev. Mark Nwulu and Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu inspired hope, not with financial inducements but through their integrity and visionary leadership.
We must also rekindle the spirit of “onye aghala nwanne ya” (let no one abandon his brother), a cornerstone of Aba’s communal life that has been overshadowed by selfish ambition and the pursuit of wealth.
The Call for True Representation
Aba deserves leaders who will passionately advocate for its interests and restore its dignity both at the state and federal levels. We need representation that goes beyond the optics of political appointments and champions the real needs of the people. Imagine an Aba where constituency funds are used to build schools, equip hospitals, create jobs, and uplift lives, imagine leaders who genuinely prioritize the welfare of the people rather than their personal extravagance.
We must demand a return to leadership as a service, not a tool for personal enrichment. Aba’s legacy was built on hard work, resilience, and the commitment of selfless leaders. This is the standard we must reclaim.
True Leadership is Service
Leadership is not measured by wealth or luxury but by the enduring impact of service and moral accountability. A real Nwa Aba will honor their roots, embrace their responsibilities, and work tirelessly to leave a legacy of integrity and progress. The spirit of De Sam Mbakwe lives on as a reminder that with true leadership, transformation is possible.
2027 Will be a Turning Point for Ndi Aba
As the next election approaches, we have a profound opportunity to reflect on our choices. This is a chance to rewrite Aba’s story and honor the legacy of our forebears. The destiny of Aba and indeed the Igbo nation lies in our ability to elect leaders who embody the values of integrity, accountability, and service. Let us vote not for those who buy our loyalty but for those who earn our respect.
Hon. Chief Tony O. Agbanyim