ATUMA SPEAKS: KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM INTERACTIVE PROGRAMME ON LOVE FM
By Chijioke Joshua I. & Prince kelechi Prico CNA.
Rep. Emeka Atuma has highlighted his achievements during his representation of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives between 2003 and 2007, reaffirming his commitment to grassroots development, effective representation and community engagement.
Speaking during an interactive programme on Love FM, Atuma recalled establishing a functional and effective constituency office during his tenure. According to him, the office was well organised and attracted commendation from the then Chief of Staff to the Abia State Government, Chief T.A. Orji, who expressed satisfaction with the arrangement and promised to support the initiative.
Atuma explained that his approach to representation would be driven by direct engagement with the people and a clear understanding of their needs. He disclosed his intention to continue his visit to 108 electoral wards across Abia Central Senatorial District to assess their challenges, identify priority projects and develop practical solutions to the problems confronting their communities. Opening Rural Roads and Supporting Farmers
Reflecting on his engagements in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area, Atuma expressed concern over the deplorable condition of rural roads and the limited presence of government in the communities.
He observed that many residents are predominantly farmers who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. According to him, opening and improving access roads to farmlands would be an important starting point in addressing their challenges, facilitating the movement of agricultural produce and improving their economic opportunities.
Atuma noted that the people warmly received him and demonstrated their hospitality by presenting farm produce, including plantains and vegetables. He described the gesture as a reflection of the people’s generosity and their desire for meaningful engagement with those seeking to represent them.
He promised to pursue practical and measurable interventions that would address the immediate needs of the communities, particularly in rural infrastructure and agricultural development.
Leveraging Federal Agencies for Community Development
The former federal lawmaker also pledged to explore opportunities for collaboration with relevant federal government agencies, including the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), to attract development projects to underserved communities.
He said qualitative representation should go beyond political promises and focus on identifying available government programmes and institutional resources that can be channelled towards improving the living conditions of the people.
During the programme, concerns were raised about the perceived absence of government presence in parts of Osisioma Ngwa where he visited. A caller appealed for urgent government intervention, particularly in addressing the infrastructure challenges confronting the area.
The concerns underscored the need for sustained engagement between elected representatives, government institutions and rural communities.
Federal-State Collaboration and Road Infrastructure:
Addressing issues surrounding road infrastructure, Atuma emphasised the importance of a collaborative relationship between the federal and state governments in delivering development projects.
He cited the Ikot Ekpene Road project as an example of the importance of synergy between different levels of government. He also acknowledged efforts by the Federal Government in the reconstruction of Ikot-ekpene road and commended the Abia State Government for its contributions on the said road.
Atuma further maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated concern for Abia State and urged the people to support the President, pointing to the importance of cooperation between the state and federal governments in advancing development.
He noted that the removal of fuel subside increased the allocation of resources to governors for community development.
He referenced the Abia State administration’s reported expressions of support for the President’s policies during a Channels Television programme, arguing that constructive collaboration could help attract more development opportunities to the state.
Local Government Autonomy and Constitutional Reform:
On the question of local government administration, Atuma recalled his legislative involvement in constitutional reform, stating that he was the first person to move a motion on the floor of the House of Representatives for constitutional amendment on May 26, 2006.
He also discussed the longstanding challenges surrounding local government administration in Nigeria, stressing the responsibilities of state governments in addressing the issues affecting local councils.
Atuma referred to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s move to seek judicial intervention at the Supreme Court on matters relating to local government autonomy, presenting the development as part of the broader effort to address the challenges facing grassroots administration.
A Call for Tangible Development:
The interactive programme brought to the fore the concerns of residents who are yearning for visible government presence, improved rural roads, better access to farmlands and interventions capable of improving their livelihoods.
As the 2027 political season approaches, the issues raised during the Love FM programme reinforce the importance of accountability, accessibility and a development-focused approach to representation.
