The member representing Enugu North and South Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu, has taken a strong stance against party politics, emphasizing the need to hold individual leaders accountable rather than blaming political parties, which are merely platforms.
Hon. Atu made this disclosure on Sunday during a live interview on Freedom Square Live at Solid 100.9 FM, Enugu.
He stated that Nigeria’s political climate is too focused on party affiliation rather than evaluating leaders based on their capacity and actions, noting that such outdated practices have hindered national development.
According to him, “Nigeria and Nigerians are yet to mature politically because we are too attached to political party affiliations and sentiments. It is counterproductive to demonize political parties, especially when parties like the APC, PDP, and Labour Party are struggling at the national level. What should be important is holding leaders accountable and setting aside party sentiments.”
Hon. Atu, who was represented by his Senior Legislative Assistant and Head of Media and Publicity, Dr. Ekwe Okwudiri, commended the leadership style of Peter Obi, highlighting his selflessness and accountability. He noted that the Labour Party leader has demonstrated true leadership capacity in Nigeria’s political terrain.
“We came out and fought so hard because of Peter Obi as an independent-minded candidate, not because of party politics. The public’s interest should lie in a leader’s integrity, not party affiliations.”
Dr. Ekwe recounted how Hon. Atu demonstrated selfless leadership by selling his official car, worth over ₦120 million, to fund scholarships for students in his constituency.
“Hon. Atu once sold his official car to fund scholarships for intelligent but indigent SS3 students, benefiting many across 28 public schools in his constituency.”
Dr. Ekwe further outlined other human capital development programs undertaken by the lawmaker within his less than two years in office.
“As someone who prioritizes youth empowerment, he ensured that over 100 constituents participated in training programs on production, where they also received materials to enhance their output. One of the beneficiaries, Henry from Amaechi, shared how the training helped him pay for his university tuition.”
“In addition to educational initiatives, Atu’s philanthropic efforts have included distributing palliatives such as rice during Christmas and Easter 2024, as well as providing agricultural fertilizers to boost local food production.”
“We must restore the dignity of education in public schools. Do not sell anything you are given to share with people. Remember to treat people well because tenure will eventually end one day,” he remarked, urging his aides to embrace selflessness and avoid using political positions for personal gain.
He also revealed that Hon. Atu is in the process of building an ultramodern science laboratory at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, his alma mater.
Discussing Hon. Atu’s legislative efforts, particularly in infrastructural development, Dr. Ekwe noted that the lawmaker proposed a motion for the maintenance of Ugwuonyeama Road, a significant step toward addressing the frequent accidents that occur there.
“Under his leadership, St. Patrick’s Primary School in Coal Camp, Enugu, underwent major renovations, including demolitions, reconstructions, and the installation of essential school furniture. Additionally, he covered the NECO exam fees for primary six students and ensured the payment of their school fees for admission into unity schools.”
“As part of his ongoing empowerment scheme, Hon. Atu sponsors an under-15 football team, helping them compete internationally and securing passports for their travel.”
“Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Atu has outlined plans to expand WAEC fee payments to assist more beneficiaries. Through the Sam Chimaobi Foundation, he will continue to support educational initiatives, including constructing science laboratories in 28 public secondary schools. He also plans to install solar-powered streetlights in key areas, including Amaechi, Ugwuaji, Obeagu, and Goshen Metropolis, and to commence rural road grading in July 2025, with more projects in the pipeline.”