By Eberechukwu Amaechi
In this interview, Mrs. Favour Nwelue, a community leader in Ehime Mbano, politician and chieftain of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), speaks about the motivation behind her community activities, her political journey, her support for Attorney Charles Onyirimba’s 2027 senatorial ambition, the state of Imo politics and her expectations for a credible election in Okigwe Zone.
You have just received two separate awards from the women of Ezeoke Nsu and Umunumo. What do these recognitions mean to you?
I am deeply grateful and humbled by the recognition. The awards are not something I take as a personal achievement alone. They are an encouragement to continue serving humanity.
The women of Ezeoke Nsu presented me with a golden trophy in recognition of my good leadership, philanthropy and community service, while the women of Umunumo recognised my charitable activities and support for the less-privileged, particularly women. I appreciate both communities tremendously.
For me, the greatest reward is seeing people smile, seeing a woman regain hope, seeing a young person get encouragement, and knowing that whatever little contribution I make has positively affected somebody’s life.
What actually motivates your community activities?
My motivation comes from compassion and from what I see around me. Some people are struggling but may not have the courage or opportunity to speak about their problems. Women, widows, young people, and vulnerable families sometimes need somebody to stand with them.
I believe that if you have the capacity to help somebody, you should not wait until you become extraordinarily wealthy. Service begins with what you have.
If I can make a difference in one person’s life today, I consider that a privilege and worthwhile.
Some people believe that politicians only become philanthropic when elections are approaching. How would you respond to that criticism?
I don’t want community service to be something we do only when elections are approaching. Leadership is about being there for your people consistently. However, I understand why people say that because politics has created a lot of distrust. But genuine service should not begin and end with elections.
My community activities are not based on whether there is an election tomorrow. People have needs every day. A woman does not become a widow because an election is coming. A child does not need assistance only during campaigns. Poverty does not respect the electoral calendar.
Politics, for me, should be an extension of service, not an avenue for personal enrichment. If you enter politics because you want to serve, your relationship with the people should continue whether or not you are seeking office.
You are also active in politics and a chieftain of the ADP. Why did you choose the Action Democratic Party?
I believe strongly in the principles and direction represented by the ADP. Politics should give people choices and should be about ideas, competence, integrity and development.
Our people deserve political alternatives. Democracy is weakened when citizens feel that they have only one option or that the outcome of an election has already been determined.
I am in the ADP because I believe we can build a political platform that gives ordinary people a stronger voice. It is not about attacking individuals. It is about presenting an alternative and allowing the people to make their choice freely. The big political parties have failed us woefully.
You are also a strong supporter of Attorney Charles Onyirimba’s senatorial ambition. What attracted you to him?
I support Attorney Charles Onyirimba because I believe he has the capacity, exposure, and commitment required to represent Okigwe Zone effectively.
He is a lawyer with international exposure and connections. But beyond his professional background, I am interested in his understanding of the problems confronting our people and his vision for the future.
Okigwe Zone has suffered in the hands of docile politicians. Okigwe Zone needs representation that goes beyond speeches and occasional appearances. We need someone who can articulate our interests, attract opportunities and engage government and institutions effectively.
My support for Onyirimba is, therefore, based on conviction. I believe the people should examine all the candidates, listen to their programmes and make an informed decision.
What is your assessment of politics in Imo State today?
Imo politics has evolved considerably, but there is still much work to do. We have very intelligent and politically conscious people, but our politics sometimes becomes too personalised.
We should move away from politics of bitterness and see political competition as an opportunity to present different ideas about development.
I also believe politicians must learn to respect the people. The electorate is not an object to be manipulated. They are citizens with rights, aspirations and expectations.
Whether you belong to APC, PDP, ADP, APGA or any other party, the ultimate objective should be the development of Imo State and the welfare of our people.
What is your view of the administration of Governor Hope Uzodinma?
Governor Hope Uzodinma is the governor of our state, and I believe he deserves recognition for some of the efforts his administration has made in infrastructure and other areas of development.
One thing I would say about the governor is that he has the opportunity to leave a lasting democratic legacy. Leadership is not only about projects; it is also about the institutions and democratic values you leave behind.
I respect Governor Uzodinma, and I believe he understands the political dynamics of Imo. I expect that he will allow the people to freely choose their representatives in 2027.
Specifically, do you believe Governor Uzodinma will allow a free and fair election in Okigwe Zone?
I believe he should, and I am optimistic that he will.
The governor has a unique opportunity to demonstrate that Imo State can conduct elections where every candidate and every voter feels protected. I am appealing to him as a leader of the state to ensure that security agencies and political actors give everybody a level playing field.
If the people choose the APC candidate, let them choose him. If they choose the ADP candidate, let them choose him. If they choose another party, that should also be respected. A free and fair election does not weaken a government. It strengthens its legitimacy.
I particularly believe that Okigwe Zone deserves an election where the people can vote according to their conscience without fear, intimidation or inducement.
What are your expectations for the 2027 senatorial election in Okigwe Zone?
I expect a competitive election. I also expect the people to be much more conscious than before.
The people are asking questions. They want to know what candidates have done, especially those that have been there before, what they intend to do, and what value they can bring to the zone.
I believe the era when people simply followed political instructions without asking questions is gradually disappearing. The electorate is becoming more discerning.
For me, 2027 should be about competence, character, capacity and vision. It should not be about who can distribute the most money or who belongs to the biggest platform.
What would you say to women in particular as the election approaches?
Women must understand their power. Women constitute a significant part of the electorate and must not allow themselves to be used merely as campaign crowds.
Women should ask questions and demand accountability. We should support candidates who recognise the importance of women’s economic empowerment, education, healthcare and participation in governance.
I also encourage women to remain peaceful. Political disagreement should never become personal hatred. We can support different candidates and remain sisters.
Having received these awards, do you see them as an endorsement of your political activities?
I see them primarily as recognition of service, not as a political endorsement. That distinction is important.
The women honoured me because of what they believe I have contributed to their communities. I am grateful for that. Politically, however, I still have to convince people through ideas, character and engagement. An award cannot replace hard work. It should encourage you to do more.
Finally, what is your message to the people of Okigwe Zone?
My message is simple: let us remain united, peaceful and politically conscious. We should not allow politicians to divide us along village, clan, religious or personal lines. After elections, we will still live together.
I will continue to support community development and humanitarian causes because that is who I am. Politically, I will continue to support what I believe is right and support Attorney Charles Onyirimba and the ADP because I believe Okigwe Zone deserves a new conversation about representation and development.
How would you rate Attorney Charles Onyirimba’s chances of winning the 2027 senatorial election, and what gives you confidence?
I would rate his chances very highly, but I also believe we must not take anything for granted. Attorney Onyirimba has the competence, exposure, character, and growing acceptance to win this election. More importantly, there is a growing desire among the people of Okigwe Zone for a different kind of representation.
His strongest advantage is his message of transformation and his ability to connect with people across different communities. But victory will require more than goodwill. We must build a strong grassroots structure, mobilise voters across the six local government areas, protect the people’s votes and remain united until the final result is declared.
If the election is free and fair and the people vote according to their conscience, I am confident that Attorney Charles Onyirimba has what it takes to emerge as the next Senator representing Okigwe Zone.
And to Governor Hope Uzodinma, I say: While wishing you well in your after-office life, especially in your senatorial bid too, you have the opportunity to demonstrate that Imo State can conduct an election that the people will trust. Let every candidate compete. Let every voter vote freely. Let the people decide.
At the end of the day, leadership belongs to the people. Those who seek to represent them must earn their confidence.