… Calls Grassroots Action Key to New Nigeria

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Engr. Dr. Chris Okonkwo, has called for massive grassroots mobilisation and membership registration across Nigeria, with a focus on the South-East, describing it as a strategic pathway to building a new Nigeria.

Okonkwo, a technocrat and former senior executive in the power sector, stressed that the current political moment requires practical commitment rather than rhetoric. He urged party leaders, aspirants, clergy, and citizens to unite behind an aggressive expansion of the ADC’s membership base.

Speaking on Nigeria’s democratic landscape, he emphasised that meaningful political transformation depends on deliberate organisation, sacrifice, and active grassroots participation.

“You cannot claim to desire a better Nigeria and yet refuse to put in the practical effort required to elect your ideal candidate. Transformation responds to sacrifice, organisation, and mass participation,” he said.

Okonkwo particularly urged the people of the South-East to engage in political mobilisation in both urban and rural communities, noting that membership registration is the party’s most urgent priority.

He further highlighted the need for party leaders and aspirants to prioritise collective interest over personal ambitions. “Without a strong membership base, electoral success remains unattainable,” he added.

Demonstrating commitment beyond advocacy, Okonkwo revealed that his team had deployed field personnel to rural areas and commercial centres to assist citizens with registration, using digital tools to bridge technological gaps. He also noted that radio and digital campaigns in local dialects had commenced to boost awareness and participation at the grassroots level.

On governance, Okonkwo identified electricity as a top priority for Enugu State, stating that stable power supply would catalyse growth across commerce, education, healthcare, industry, and security.

He concluded by urging citizens to take concrete steps to support national progress, stressing that Nigeria’s future depends on unity, discipline, and active participation.