By Ijeoma John, Nnewi
In every political season, the people are faced with one important question of who truly understands the struggles of the grassroots, and who has paid the price of service before seeking power?
For the people of Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, that question has a clear and convincing answer, Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna is the person. He is a man whose political journey has not just been about ambition, but about years of sacrifice, loyalty, and genuine service to both leaders and the people.
Long before stepping into the spotlight as a frontline aspirant, Lotanna had already built a strong reputation as a dependable grassroots mobilizer and political servant. His political experience cuts across major campaigns and influential figures in Anambra State.
He served as Special Assistant on Grassroots Mobilization to Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah. During this time, Lotanna played a key role in building and sustaining the structures that delivered electoral victories across many communities. His work was not just by title; it was practical, people-focused, and result-driven.
He also played a crucial role in the emergence of Ifeanyi Uzokwe, which further shows his strategic importance. At a time when the campaign faced serious structural and electoral challenges, Lotanna stood firm within the grassroots system that eventually secured victory through Nnewi’s decisive votes. This clearly shows his deep understanding of local politics and his ability to mobilize support where it matters most.
He also served as media personnel to Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu during her senatorial bid. In that role, he contributed to campaign communication and on-ground coordination, including active participation during the Ekwulobia primaries.
In the Anambra State governorship race, he coordinated the Team Tony Nwoye Support Group for Tony Nwoye. He worked closely with key political figures like Barr. Okonkwo Okom (Ifemba Oko) and others to drive grassroots engagement and strengthen support structures.
He also worked with Godwin Ezeemo, contributing significantly as part of his media team. This further expanded his experience across different political platforms and strengthened his understanding of campaign strategy.
One of his most defining roles was his support for Nonso Smart Okafor. He served as Personal Assistant to him when he was a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly. He also worked as his Deputy Chief of Staff during his tenure as NYCN Chairman in Anambra State. In these roles, Lotanna was not just a staff member; he was a key player in strategy, mobilization, and execution, contributing greatly to the success of those political processes.
What stands out even more is his spirit of sacrifice. He stepped down his own ambition to run for the State House of Assembly under NDLP in order to support Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor, who was contesting under APGA. In a political space where many people put themselves first, this kind of decision speaks loudly about his character.
His influence also reached the student community. As Chief Judge of the Student Union Government at Federal Polytechnic Oko, he mobilized young people and coordinated support for Chris Azubuogu during his House of Representatives campaign. He also coordinated student support groups for Chukwudi Orizu, ensuring that youth participation was strong, organized, and effective.
Adding to this long list, he coordinated the media campaign of Ikechukwu Obiorah, participating fully in his electoral bid under the Accord Party.
He was also instrumental in the electoral victory and success of Hon. Augustine Onyekachukwu Ike-Ikedoji, who is the current House of Assembly member representing Nnewi North in the Anambra State House of Assembly. He played a crucial grassroots mobilization role and Director Media Campaign for him in Nnewi North during the last general elections, when he contested under the platform of YPP.
What truly sets Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna apart is not just the number of people he has worked with, but how he has consistently shown up, always at the grassroots, always among the people, always in the real places where political battles are fought and won.
Today, as he steps forward to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo, his ambition is not built on empty promises. It is built on real experience, proven loyalty, and a deep understanding of the needs of his people.
This is a man who has helped others rise. A man who has sacrificed his own ambition for collective success. A man who has stood with the people when it truly mattered. Now, he is asking for the opportunity to serve directly.
So, the question before the people is simple: If not a man who has consistently served, mobilized, and delivered for others, then who?
Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna represents a strong connection between experience and compassion, between structure and service, and between past efforts and a better future.
As the constituency prepares to decide, one thing is clear: supporting Lotanna is not just a political choice. It is a recognition of service, a reward for sacrifice, and a step toward true and effective representation.
The time has come for the servant to lead.
