The political landscape in Ohaukwu North State Constituency of Ebonyi State has received a fresh boost as traditional elders and community leaders from the five kindreds of Ukwagba, Ndiagueze, endorsed the Labour Party candidate, Pastor Iduma Christian Mayor, for the 2027 House of Assembly election.
The endorsement was made on Saturday, September 5, 2026, during a well-attended community gathering where representatives of the five kindreds converged to perform the Iwushiru Minyi traditional rite of endorsement and blessing.
The community elders said the decision followed extensive consultations among stakeholders and was aimed at forging a united position ahead of the 2027 poll.
Leading the delegation, Elder Egba Nwalegu offered prayers for Mayor's political journey and called for a peaceful campaign and election.
“My prayer is that your journey to Nkaliki will be successful,” Nwalegu told the gathering.
He added: “We also ask God to make the entire campaign period peaceful for you and give you victory. You are an illustrious son, and our ancestors will go before you and clear the way. Anyone trying to stop you, we pour him or her away like this water.”
The endorsement brought together representatives of all five kindreds in the Ukwagba bloc, signalling what the community described as a collective expression of confidence in the LP candidate.
Speaking after the traditional ceremony, Mayor expressed appreciation to the elders and people of Ndiagueze Ukwagba for their support and confidence.
“I thank them very sincerely,” Mayor said.
“I promise that the confidence reposed in my person and on my team will be justified. We will run an issue-based campaign that prioritises the development of Ohaukwu North.”
The candidate pledged to make development-oriented issues, rather than personal attacks, central to his campaign as he seeks the support of voters across the constituency.
The Iwushiru Minyi rite, according to the community's tradition, symbolises the formal adoption and blessing of a candidate by the people. It is also associated with prayers for protection, success, integrity and responsible leadership.
The endorsement is expected to add momentum to Mayor's grassroots campaign as political activities ahead of the 2027 House of Assembly election gather pace in Ohaukwu North.
Following the ceremony, the LP candidate is expected to continue consultations with other communities and stakeholders across the constituency as he seeks to consolidate support ahead of the election.
