By Chioma Gabriel
OWERRI — A United States-based Imo State-born cleric, Rev. Canon Ifeanyi Obiechefu, has outlined what he described as a governance-focused agenda as he declared interest in the Imo State governorship seat in 2028.
Obiechefu said his ambition is driven by concerns over what he called years of neglect of people-centred governance in the state, alleging that successive administrations have prioritised personal interests over public welfare, resulting in corruption and widespread hardship.
In his broad policy outline, the cleric highlighted challenges he believes are confronting both Imo State and Nigeria, including insecurity, widening inequality, high cost of education and transportation, unemployment, poor electricity supply, housing deficits, and lack of social safety nets for workers and pensioners.
He lamented what he described as worsening living conditions, saying many citizens are struggling to survive amid rising costs and weak public services.
Obiechefu said his motivation for entering politics was to improve the welfare of residents, insisting that governance should be centred on the people rather than political elites.
He added that if elected, his administration would introduce social intervention measures aimed at supporting low-income residents, including a proposed monthly financial assistance programme for those earning below a certain threshold, as well as reforms to the salary payment structure.
On pension administration, he pledged prompt payment of pensions and improved welfare for retirees and veterans, while promising a stronger focus on social protection systems.
Although he has no prior political experience, Obiechefu said his exposure to governance systems in various countries influenced his ambition. He stated that his travels across parts of North America, South America, Europe, and several U.S. states exposed him to models of effective public service delivery which he hopes to replicate in Imo State.
On infrastructure, he criticised the state of transportation and security, particularly road travel, alleging extortion at checkpoints and poor logistics systems. He proposed improved transport infrastructure, including aviation services to enhance connectivity between Imo and other parts of the country.
Addressing insecurity, he said protecting lives and property would be a top priority of his administration, promising to strengthen security agencies and improve their operational capacity.
He added that his government would ensure security personnel are better equipped to respond to crime and violence across the state.
Obiechefu expressed confidence that his vision would reposition Imo State for development, saying he hopes to build on the legacy of past leaders who prioritised infrastructure and public welfare.
Article 2028: Imo needs competent leaders, aspirant Rev. Obiechefu outlines agenda Live On NgGossips.
