A former Deputy Chairman of Bende Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Promise Uzoma Okoro (PUO), anipr, has officially declared his intention to contest for the Bende North State Constituency seat in the Abia State House of Assembly under the platform of the Labour Party (LP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Okoro made the declaration during a well-attended political gathering comprising party leaders, stakeholders, ward chairmen, women and youth leaders, councillors, and supporters from across the constituency.

In his address, the aspirant described his decision as a “defining moment of purpose, conviction, and responsibility,” stating that his ambition is driven by a strong desire to deliver people-oriented and result-driven legislative representation.

He commended the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, for what he described as transformative governance, citing key projects including the ongoing construction of Umunneato General Hospital, road infrastructure across Abia North, erosion control interventions, and expansion of primary healthcare centres.

According to him, these achievements demonstrate that purposeful leadership can restore confidence in governance and improve the lives of citizens.

Reflecting on his tenure as Deputy Chairman of Bende LGA between 2020 and 2022, Okoro noted that his administration prioritized grassroots engagement, accessibility, and collaborative governance, resulting in measurable impacts across communities.

He, however, stressed that Bende North requires stronger legislative representation that is “visible, accessible, proactive, and deeply connected to the people.”

While acknowledging the contributions of the current lawmaker, Okoro emphasized the need for a new leadership direction anchored on competence, innovation, inclusiveness, and measurable results. He also highlighted the constituency’s political history, noting that since 2011, no lawmaker has secured a return mandate, describing it as a reflection of the people’s demand for renewed representation.

The aspirant used the occasion to unveil his development blueprint, tagged the “PROMISE Manifesto,” an acronym-driven agenda focused on:
• People-Centered Representation through regular engagement and accountability
• Rural Development and Infrastructure Advocacy targeting roads, electricity, water, and erosion control
• Opportunities for Youths and Women via empowerment and entrepreneurship support
• Medical and Health Support Systems to strengthen primary healthcare delivery
• Institutional Strengthening and Transparency in governance
• Security and Social Stability through community collaboration
• Education and Human Capital Development to prepare youths for future opportunities

Okoro described the manifesto as a “covenant of service” and pledged to prioritize the welfare and aspirations of constituents if elected.

He further revealed that he has been engaging in wide consultations since 2025 and remains committed to inclusive dialogue and consensus-building.

“My aspiration is not driven by personal ambition alone, but by a burden to serve, uplift, and transform Bende North through quality representation,” he stated.

Expressing confidence in his capacity and political reach, Okoro assured party members and constituents of his readiness to secure victory for the Labour Party and deliver impactful representation.

“If given the opportunity, I will not only represent you, I will make you proud,” he added.

His declaration is expected to reshape political dynamics within Bende North as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections.