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OPINION: How Participatory Will Saturday’s Anambra State Governorship Election Be?

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5 years ago

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In Africa and most Third World generally, parochial political culture is usually prevalent and informs the attitude and behaviours of the people towards politics.

One of the most distinguishing features of a democracy is public participation in the process of selecting leaders termed general election. However, the extent to which the public participates in this process is largely determined by preexisting political culture. In other words, an established code of conduct of the people towards political matters shapes their input and summarily determines their participation level. In Africa and most Third World generally, parochial political culture is usually prevalent and informs the attitude and behaviours of the people towards politics.

What people do, how they react, demands they make, their input, among others in the politics of their country or state is influenced by their political socialization. This is to say that political culture is determined by political socialization. To put this in perspective, families in our clime do not encourage their members to be part of any political activity, they believe it is suicidal. When one insists, then, a lot of caution is advised to be applied. In most churches, unless towards important elections like the weekend’s governorship election in Anambra state, there is no mention of political leadership, election or anything connected thereto in any activity of the church.

Most public engagement relating to government or political leadership is squarely about failures of government and political leadership; nothing is mentioned about how the people can rescue their country or state, with their genuine involvement in the political process. In fact, the people live as if to say that government and political leaders do not matter and as such, they can do without it. Both family and church are major agents of political socialization. In consequence, there is an entrenched perception of government as an abstract entity that is exploited by those occupying public offices for their personal gains. Right or wrong, the tragedy is that the people feel that there is nothing they can do about that situation. So for instance, even when elections are called, the people still believe that their participation will not make any difference.

Every election has its own peculiarities and this 2021 Anambra governorship election is consequently different. In addition to the existing apolitical culture, there are deep concerns that will further drive down participation in the election.

Against this backdrop, it is important that participation in the Anambra state election on Saturday is not viewed in isolation of the prevalent realities of the citizens’ political culture. The people simply have a culture of removing themselves from being part of the political process. On Election Day like Saturday, registered voters in all the three hundred and twenty-seven political wards, which constitute the five thousand, seven hundred and twenty polling units in Anambra state, will not turn up by close to half. In fact, 20% or 25% voter participation is a luxury.

During the last governorship election in 2017 for instance, Nnewi North Local Government Area had a total of one hundred and fifteen thousand, six hundred and sixty-two duly registered voters. But on Election Day, only twenty-one thousand, nine hundred and thirty-four thousand votes were recorded. Out of this number, about one thousand, three hundred and fifty-nine votes were rejected based on certain voting rules which were not followed by those voters. The worry really is that in 2017, Nnewi had more than one hundred thousand registered voters, but only about twenty thousand voted. This was the situation in Ihiala with over one hundred and twenty-four thousand voters but recorded about twenty-nine thousand votes. This is equally the same with Nnewi South local government with almost one hundred thousand voters but recorded about eighteen thousand votes.

Voter apathy is part of our political experience in Anambra state and indeed, Nigeria. But this year’s Anambra governorship election may yet be the worst.

Every election has its own peculiarities and this 2021 Anambra governorship election is consequently different. In addition to the existing apolitical culture, there are deep concerns that will further drive down participation in the election. For a few months now, the regular Monday sit-at-home has become part of the normal weekend holidays. In Nnewi and environs, Aguata and environs, Onitsha and environs, the fear on the populace are better imagined. The sit-at-home is thus most effective in those areas and despite the seriousness of business and commercial activities in those areas, nothing happens on Mondays and it has now become the new normal. I have only mentioned this as a guide to the possible impact the “no election order” by IPOB or its splinter groups, or other groups, will have on Saturday’s election turnout. The fact is that there is fear and uncertainty, such that has never been the case when participation and voter turnout was still low, how low can it now be?

For Elizabeth, a voter with her Permanent Voters Card – PVC, who has been voting in previous Anambra elections, “I am not going to vote this time. I will stay in my house”. This was also what Faith, another Anambra voter who has been voting in previous elections said. In a way of summary, out of about fifteen to twenty regular voters spread across Anambra state who gave their stand as to if they are voting or not, only about two regular voters affirmed that they will be voting in Saturday’s gubernatorial election. Anambra South senatorial zone and parts of Anambra Central senatorial zone may likely be the most affected by the apathy in this year’s governorship election.

Voter apathy is part of our political experience in Anambra state and indeed, Nigeria. But this year’s Anambra governorship election may yet be the worst. What appears to be fueling this year’s governorship election voter apathy is the fear of being attacked by no-election proponents or being cut in a crossfire between security forces and armed group(s) enforcing no-election in Anambra state. The intensity of voter apathy notwithstanding, by the early hours of November 7, 2021, it might be clear who the winner of the election is.

What this means is that with a large or small turnout of voters, there must be a winner. And whether one voted or not, the winner will become governor-elect and upon swearing-in on 17th March 2022, everybody in Anambra state will simply live with that reality. The new governor’s policy choices, development options, politics, among others, will have direct impact both on those that voted and those that did not vote, not excluding proponents of no-election and those advocating for election. No one will be speared and everybody will live with that reality, good or bad, till the next election cycle.

♦ Ebuka Onyekwelu, strategic governance exponent,  is a columnist with the WAP

 

 

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Education

Professor Josephine Onyido Earns Prestigious Nigerian Academy of Education Induction

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September 26, 2026

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University of Port Harcourt scholar will be inducted into Nigeria’s apex education academy in Abuja, marking another milestone in a career spanning teaching, research, leadership, mentorship and advocacy

HOUSTON, TEXAS — Professor Josephine Azuka Onyido, an accomplished scholar and academic leader at the University of Port Harcourt, will be inducted into the Nigerian Academy of Education on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in recognition of her contributions to the advancement of education.

The ceremony, scheduled for the Conference Hall of the National Commission for Colleges of Education in Abuja, places Onyido among scholars recognized for sustained contributions to education, research, and academic development in Nigeria.

A Professor in the Department of Educational Foundations at the University of Port Harcourt, Onyido has built a career encompassing teaching, research, administration, mentorship, curriculum development, and institutional service.

She described the forthcoming recognition as both an honor and a renewed obligation to education. “I receive this recognition with profound gratitude and humility. My journey in education has always been driven by the belief that scholarship must extend beyond the classroom and contribute meaningfully to society. This induction is not simply a personal achievement; it strengthens my responsibility to continue advancing quality education, mentoring future scholars, and promoting opportunities for women and girls. I am deeply grateful to my family, colleagues, students, and everyone who has been part of this journey.”

Onyido earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education (English), a Master of Education, and a Ph.D. in Sociology of Education. She is also a permanent member of the University of Port Harcourt Senate. Her scholarly record includes more than 90 journal articles, book chapters and Sociology of Education Made Easy, a textbook developed to make concepts in the discipline more accessible to students.

Much of her research examines the intersection of education and society, with particular emphasis on gender, women’s empowerment, educational development, social justice and the rights of women and girls. Her work advocates translating academic research into policies and practices that expand educational opportunities and strengthen human-capital development.

Beyond research, Onyido has occupied several academic leadership positions. She served as Acting Head of the Department of Educational Foundations from 2021 to 2023 and has worked as the Departmental Coordinator of Postgraduate Programs, the Anti-Plagiarism Coordinator, the Academic Adviser, and the Editor of the Port Harcourt Journal of Education Studies.

Her influence also extends beyond her university. She has served as an external examiner for several institutions and has participated as a resource person for the National Teachers’ Institute, the University of Port Harcourt, the Centers for Higher Education and Sandwich Programs, and the National Universities Commission verification exercise.

Internationally, Onyido represented the Niger Delta Development Commission at the African Women in Leadership Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, expanding her engagement with issues of women’s leadership, empowerment, and social transformation.

She belongs to several professional organizations, including the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, the Association of Sociologists of Education of Nigeria, and the International Association for Gender Equity.

Her academic and community work have earned numerous recognitions, including the Millennium Development Ambassador Award, Lecturer of the Year, Outstanding Project Supervisor, and Professional Service awards.

Yet Onyido’s story also reaches deeply into heritage and service. She is the great-great-granddaughter of King Josiah Constance Ockiya, MINGI VII, Amanyanabo of Nembe Kingdom and Supreme King of Brass. Her great-grandfather, Rev. Daniel Ockiya, translated the Bible into the Nembe language.

A committed Catholic and Jerusalem pilgrim, she has also served in church and community leadership positions and was recognized by the Catholic Women Organization of the Port Harcourt Diocese as a “Quintessential Woman.”

For Onyido, the November 4 induction represents more than another distinction on an extensive academic résumé. It recognizes a career built around an enduring principle: education achieves its greatest value when knowledge is transformed into opportunity, service, and social progress.

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Houston

PCNI Elevates Chief Dr. Emmanuel Opara to Patron in Historic Ihiagwa Investiture

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1 week ago

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September 26, 2026

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Sugar Land People’s Club leaders celebrate their First Vice Chairman’s December 22 investiture, describing the honor as recognition of leadership, scholarship, service, and commitment to the enduring ideals of the People’s Club

HOUSTON, TEXAS — All roads will lead to Ihiagwa, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, on December 22, 2026, as members, associates, and well-wishers of People’s Club of Nigeria International gather for the Patronship Investiture of Hon. Chief Dr. Emmanuel Uzoma Opara, First Vice Chairman of the Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (SLPCNI).

The ceremony will mark another milestone for the Sugar Land branch, historically recognized within the organization as its First International Branch, and will elevate one of its senior officers into the distinguished circle of PCNI patrons.

Since its inception in 1971, the People’s Club of Nigeria has developed into an international social and philanthropic organization with branches in Nigeria, the United States, and Europe. Its tradition emphasizes fellowship, community service, and the principles of Love, Unity, and Service.

Within that tradition, patronship carries significance beyond a ceremonial title. Patrons are expected to serve as senior advisers, custodians of institutional values, and respected voices in sustaining the organization’s heritage and direction. The recognition is traditionally associated with sustained service, leadership, and commitment to the Club and society.

For Opara, the honor also recognizes a professional life extending far beyond community leadership.

An academic and technology specialist, Opara’s scholarly interests span cybersecurity, digital and media forensics, artificial intelligence, and Agentic AI. His research includes digital forensic investigation, incident response and threat analysis, memory analysis, advanced-adversary containment and intrusion detection, including applications of Python programming.

His work also engages with memory forensics and investigative technologies, as well as the offensive and defensive dimensions of cybersecurity, commonly characterized as Red Team and Blue Team operations.

Opara is a Fellow of the International Information Management Association (FIIMA) and serves as an Associate Editor of the Journal of International Technology and Information Management (JITIM).

Reflecting on the forthcoming investiture, Opara described the recognition as a responsibility rather than simply another distinction.

“I receive this honor with profound gratitude and humility. Patronship represents a responsibility to protect the values that have sustained People’s Club for generations: love, unity, service, and genuine fellowship. Whatever we achieve professionally becomes more meaningful when we use our knowledge, experience, and resources to strengthen our communities and create opportunities for others. I look forward to serving the Club at an even greater level.”

Grand Patron of SLPCNI, Hon. Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu, said Opara’s elevation reflects the leadership qualities expected of those entrusted with preserving the organization’s legacy. “Chief Dr. Opara represents the combination of intellectual accomplishment, community service, and organizational commitment that the People’s Club should continue to encourage. Patronship is not merely about recognition; it carries an obligation to guide, support and protect the institution. We are proud that another leader from our Sugar Land family has earned this important honor.”

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman of SLPCNI, said the investiture demonstrates the depth of leadership within the Sugar Land branch. “This is a proud moment for Sugar Land People’s Club. Chief Dr. Opara has distinguished himself through service, scholarship, and dedication to our organization. His investiture strengthens our branch while reinforcing our connection to the national and international People’s Club family. We congratulate him and look forward to celebrating with him in Ihiagwa.”

The December gathering is expected to draw PCNI leaders, patrons, members, family, friends, and community representatives from Nigeria and abroad. Beyond the pageantry of the ceremony, however, Opara’s investiture carries a broader institutional message: leadership within the People’s Club is ultimately measured by service.

On December 22, Ihiagwa will host the celebration. But for Sugar Land, the occasion will also be a celebration of one of its own—a scholar, technology professional, and community leader entering a new chapter of responsibility in the People’s Club tradition.

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Houston

Membership Surge Continues as Dr. Nkem Ugwu Joins People’s Club

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2 weeks ago

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September 20, 2026

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Following a successful induction ceremony, the First International Branch continues to attract new members drawn to its tradition of friendship, service, culture, and community

SUGAR LAND, TEXAS — The Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (SLPCNI) is continuing its membership expansion following its recently concluded induction ceremony, with Dr. Nkem Ugwu becoming one of the latest community members to join the organization.

Ugwu, a Sugar Land resident originally from Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria, is an entrepreneur and mother of three sons, a mother-in-law, and a grandmother. She describes service to others, family, and community engagement as important parts of her personal and professional life.

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu addressing the September Conference of the Sugar Land PCNI

Her membership comes on the heels of the branch’s successful bi-annual induction ceremony, during which 16 new members were formally sworn in by PCNI National President Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke. The celebration attracted national leaders, patrons, and members representing branches from across the People’s Club network.

Photo from left: Hon. Chief Sir Michael Okeke; Hon. Anaeto Okakpu “Oranwezuluaku”; Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu; Hon. Dr. Nkem Ugwu ; Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman; Hon. Chief, Sir Basil Mbuba; Hon. Chief Sir Dr. Uche Egbuchuam “Akudo World Wide.”

Ugwu said joining the organization provides an opportunity to develop meaningful relationships while contributing to its mission.

“I am truly excited and honored to join the prestigious People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugar Land Branch. I look forward to getting to know fellow members, building lasting friendships, and becoming actively involved in this vibrant and welcoming community. I am especially drawn to the Club’s tradition of fellowship, service, and mutual support, and I hope to contribute my experience, energy, and passion for serving others to its continued growth.”

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu welcomed Ugwu, describing continued interest in membership as encouraging for the historic First International Branch.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe and Hon. Ndidi Chidume

“When people of accomplishment and community spirit continue to identify with our organization, it tells us that the values upon which People’s Club was built remain relevant. We welcome Dr. Ugwu and look forward to the experience and fellowship she brings to our family.”

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman, said the branch’s recent induction helped showcase an organization that continues to combine Nigerian cultural heritage with community engagement in Houston.

“Our successful induction created tremendous enthusiasm, but our focus goes beyond ceremonies. We are building a stronger organization rooted in friendship, responsibility and service. Dr. Ugwu’s decision to join reflects that continuing momentum.”

One of the meeting hosts, Hon. Professor Keih George, introduces the co-meeting hosts.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe said the branch remains interested in individuals prepared to participate actively in its programs and fellowship.

“Membership is about belonging, but it is equally about participation and contribution. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Ugwu and other prospective members who share the principles and aspirations of People’s Club.”

For SLPCNI, the growing interest following its induction represents another chapter in the evolution of a branch with a special place in the organization’s history.

And for Ugwu, it marks the beginning of a new journey—one centered on friendship, community, and service.

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