By Ijeoma John, Nnewi
Frontline House of Representatives aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna, has commenced a constituency-wide appreciation tour aimed at personally thanking party members and supporters who stood firmly behind him during the recently concluded party primaries.
The first phase of the thank-you tour took place at Obi Nnewichi Palace, where Amb. Lotanna hosted members of NDC Nnewichi Ward 1 and expressed profound gratitude for their overwhelming support, loyalty, and commitment throughout the primary election process.
Addressing party faithful during the gathering, Lotanna commended the members of Ward 1 for turning out in large numbers and demonstrating exceptional courage and dedication on the day of the primaries.
He noted that despite several attempts by opponents to frustrate and disrupt the electoral process after witnessing the massive support he enjoyed among party members, party members remained steadfast and refused to abandon the process. According to him, their resilience, patience, and determination from the early hours of the morning until late into the night played a significant role in the success recorded during the exercise.
“I have come here today with a heart full of gratitude. I thank every member of NDC Nnewichi Ward 1 for the confidence you reposed in me. You came out in your numbers and stood firmly with me throughout the primaries. Even when efforts were made to frustrate the process after seeing the intimidating support behind our movement, you remained calm, resolute, and committed until the very end.”
Lotanna stated that the love, organization, solidarity, and sacrifices demonstrated by party members would never be taken for granted, adding that he considered it necessary to personally visit and appreciate them rather than merely sending messages from afar. He emphasized that politics should be built on relationships, appreciation, and mutual respect, noting that true leadership begins with recognizing and valuing the people who make success possible.
The NDC aspirant further disclosed that the visit to Nnewichi Ward 1 marks only the beginning of a broader thank-you tour across the constituency. According to him, he intends to personally meet and appreciate his supporters in every ward that stood by him during the primaries.
“This is only the beginning. I will personally visit and appreciate every ward that supported our vision during the primaries. The support you gave me was not ordinary, and I believe it deserves personal acknowledgment and appreciation,” he stated.
Amb. Lotanna also used the opportunity to reassure party members that while they await the final decision of the national leadership of the NDC regarding the outcome of the primaries, he remains committed to the people and their aspirations. He stressed that the welfare, concerns, and hopes of party members and constituents remain his top priority.
“I want you to know that you are number one to me. Your burdens are my burdens. Your challenges are my challenges. I am not in this journey for myself; I am here because I want to serve our people and make a positive difference in their lives.”
The aspirant reiterated his commitment to providing effective, accessible, and people-oriented representation for the people of Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo, promising never to betray the trust and confidence reposed in him. He assured supporters that he remains dedicated to duty and determined to justify the faith they have placed in his leadership.
“Whatever it takes, I will continue to stand with our people. I believe in you, I appreciate your sacrifices, and I will do everything within my power to make you proud.”
Party members present at the event expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of humility, gratitude, and genuine grassroots leadership. Many noted that Lotanna’s decision to personally thank supporters reflects the kind of people-centered leadership they desire and further reinforces their confidence in his ability to effectively represent the constituency.
The event ended with renewed expressions of solidarity and support as party faithful pledged to remain committed to the collective vision of building a stronger, more prosperous, and better-represented Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency.
