By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The lawmaker representing Ideato Federal Constituency, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, on Tuesday took his stewardship directly to the people, hosting constituents in Abuja in a high-profile engagement that doubled as a showcase of his achievements and a springboard for renewed political support.

The interactive session, convened under the Ideato Peoples Assembly at the National Assembly Complex and themed

“An Afternoon with Our Messenger,” drew a broad spectrum of Ideato indigenes in the Federal Capital Territory, offering a rare platform for direct dialogue, accountability and feedback.

Ugochinyere, who chairs the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), laid out an extensive scorecard of his tenure,spotlighting infrastructure projects, scholarship programmes, empowerment initiatives and legislative interventions aimed at improving the lives of his constituents.

Reaffirming his commitment to people-centred governance, the lawmaker pledged to scale up development efforts and sustain what he described as “responsive representation” anchored on constant engagement with the grassroots.

“Representation goes beyond the chamber; it is about staying connected to the people and responding to their needs at all times,” he said.

The event quickly transformed into a vote of confidence, as constituents openly applauded his performance, accessibility and leadership style. Many pledged unwavering support for his future political ambitions, including a potential second term.

Ugochinyere also unveiled plans to expand empowerment programmes, with a focus on skills acquisition, small business support and increased educational opportunities for students across the constituency.

Stakeholders and community leaders at the forum hailed the initiative as a model of accountable leadership, noting that consistent engagement has strengthened trust between the electorate and their representative.

Speaking for the Ideato Peoples Assembly, its President, Dr. Vin Igwilo, commended the lawmaker’s efforts but urged greater investment in agro-based industries, particularly in harnessing the constituency’s palm produce potential.

In a significant political signal, the group declared its readiness to back Ugochinyere for a second term, vowing to break what it described as the long-standing “jinx” that has denied Ideato representatives consecutive mandates.

“We will start with Ikenga. If he wishes, he should be given the mandate for a second term,” the group affirmed, marking a strong endorsement that could reshape the constituency’s political landscape.