Chief Barrister Tochukwu Ogalegu (T-man), a philanthropist, APC chieftain and aspirant for the Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections, has called for a shift from quota-based and elite-driven politics to a people-centred democratic system anchored on popular mandate and accountability.
Ogalegu made the call on Boxing Day 2025 while interacting with journalists in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, where he outlined his political philosophy, motivations, and long-standing contributions to grassroots development across Ebonyi State, particularly in Ohaukwu Local Government Area.
Addressing questions on why he ventured into politics despite his background in private philanthropy, Ogalegu said his decision was a natural progression from years of service to humanity.
According to him, his political ambition is driven by a desire to institutionalise the humanitarian efforts he has quietly sustained over the years.
“My people gave me a Chieftain title 'Ikemba of Ohaukwu, and this is a title I earned through service. I have facilitated federal employment, supported the less privileged, and consistently intervened in areas of health, youth empowerment, and social welfare,” he said.
He disclosed that through the Zelunjo Parliament Foundation, he has paid hospital bills for numerous indigent patients, with some hospitals serving as the foundation’s primary referral centre for surgical and critical medical cases.
Ogalegu revealed that employment creation has remained a cornerstone of his interventions, noting that thousands of beneficiaries have been supported through what he described as “buying work” for the unemployed.
“In the first year, we engaged 1,850 people. The second year, 1,740. This year, we initially planned for 1,900 but expanded it to about 2,200 due to public demand,” he stated.
He added that over N400 million has been expended on clothing and work-related support for beneficiaries across various communities, stressing that the initiative is targeted primarily at indigent citizens, though inclusivity remains a guiding principle.
On youth development, the APC chieftain highlighted sports, particularly football competitions, as a strategic tool for talent discovery, crime prevention, and community policing.
“When youths are engaged through football, you are harnessing talent and simultaneously policing the environment. It reduces crime and keeps young people meaningfully occupied, especially during festive periods,” he explained.
He disclosed that some participants in these competitions have already attracted invitations from professional clubs such as Enyimba FC and Enugu Rangers, expressing optimism that Ebonyi State could soon produce football stars of national and international repute.
Ogalegu criticised what he described as quota-based leadership selection, arguing that it breeds unaccountable governance.
“Leaders who emerge through democratic elections feel a sense of responsibility to the people. But those imposed through quotas or godfatherism feel accountable only to their sponsors,” he said.
He identified lack of exposure, poverty, and the quota system as major factors undermining effective leadership, insisting that genuine democracy must be anchored on the people’s mandate.
“When people fight for you and vote you into office, you cannot afford to betray them. That is the difference between people-driven leadership and imposed leadership,” he added.
Responding to concerns about alleged saturation within the APC in Ebonyi State, Ogalegu dismissed the notion, describing himself as a committed party man with firm belief in possibility and internal democracy.
“There is nothing impossible. Some people in the party are not faithful; they are there for personal interests. I believe in APC, and I believe that where there is no way, a way can be created,” he said.
He emphasised self-belief and resilience as essential tools in navigating party politics, stressing that history is often made by those willing to challenge perceived limitations.
Ogalegu also reaffirmed his unwavering support for Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, describing him as a pragmatic leader deserving of a second term.
As Patron of the Francis Frontiers Movement, he said the organisation was established to mobilise grassroots support for the governor’s re-election based on performance.
“In security and infrastructure, the governor has performed creditably. Peace has returned to Ebonyi, and development is visible across communities,” he stated.
He noted that improved security has encouraged economic activities and restored public confidence, adding that peace remains the most critical dividend of democracy.
Ogalegu insisted that political power resides with the masses, not with political elites or self-styled stakeholders.
“Stakeholders are former office holders with just one vote each. In a democracy, it is the people who decide. Nobody is God; power belongs to the masses,” he said.
He expressed confidence that a people-driven political movement would ultimately prevail, stressing that sustained engagement with the grassroots remains the surest path to credible leadership and enduring development.
