By Emmanuel Iheaka, Owerri

An aspirant for Imo West Senatorial District, Chief Charles Ugochukwu Ahize is saddened by the killings and destruction of property experienced in the zone in the past one year.

Ahize said the burden to tackle the situation is behind his ambition to represent the zone in the Senate.

Speaking to newsmen in Owerri,yesterday, the aspirant informed that he had already begun mobilizing notable and influential sons and daughters of the zone towards restoring peace in the area.

Ahize, running on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), submitted that he is a home grown and grassroots man with overwhelming influence on the younger generation.

This, the aspirant said he will leverage to engage all groups on the need to give peace a chance in the zone if elected.

“I am not contesting for Orlu Senate seat to move around with long convoy but to employ my leadership qualities and wide contacts and connections in Nigeria to better the lives of Orlu people, Imolites and Nigerians in general.

“Going to the Senate to represent the good people of Orlu will provide me a better platform and opportunity to serve my people. I have done so much in my own personal capacity to improve the well-being of youths, women and the indigent in Orlu through series of empowerment programmes”, he stated.

According to him,Orlu Zone is the second largest Senatorial District in Nigeria and therefore needs a committed and passionate representative.

He appealed to APC delegates in the zone to vote for him in the forthcoming primary election, assuring that his candidacy will guarantee victory for the party at the general elections.

Ahize promised to construct international convention centre in Orlu with his personal funds which he said will attract international organizations and establishments in order to boost trade and commerce in the area.

He frowned at the scenario where Orlu sons and daughters now conduct marriage ceremonies and meetings in Owerri because of security situation in the area.

Ahize dismissed the speculation that Governor Hope Uzodimma has endorsed an aspirant for Orlu Senate seat, maintaining that the governor as the leader of APC in the state will allow a fair playing ground.