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BENDE, ABIA STATE — A growing political movement is taking shape across Bende Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections, with community leaders, youths, market women and grassroots stakeholders increasingly rallying around the aspiration of Dr. Chima Anyaso.
The emerging conversation, however, appears to be shifting beyond conventional campaign rhetoric. In communities across Bende, residents are demanding leadership they say must be visible, accessible and capable of translating political representation into tangible development.
From access to potable water and healthcare to rural roads, agricultural development, youth employment and support for small businesses, residents say years of unmet needs have heightened their demand for a representative who understands their everyday struggles.
At recent community engagements, supporters of Anyaso, popularly associated with the “Ofuji” campaign movement, argued that his longstanding engagement with grassroots communities gives him an advantage in understanding the challenges confronting ordinary people.
An elder from Item, speaking during one of the gatherings, said Anyaso’s supporters believe his strength lies in his proximity to the people.
“He understands the challenges facing the people of Bende because he has remained close to the grassroots and appreciates the daily struggles of ordinary citizens,” the elder said.
According to him, the difference between political promises and meaningful representation is demonstrated by the willingness of a leader to remain connected to the people after elections.
The sentiment was echoed by youths who argued that Bende requires representation capable of attracting and completing development projects while maintaining accountability to constituents.
“Bende cannot afford another missed opportunity,” a youth leader from Alayi said. “We need someone who will bring projects home, finish them, and stand before us to give account.”
Beyond Campaign Promises
Supporters of Dr. Anyaso say his political message is anchored on four principles — integrity, accountability, service and results.
They argue that Bende possesses enormous potential in agriculture, commerce, entrepreneurship and human capital, but requires strategic representation capable of connecting those resources to government programmes, private investment and sustainable development opportunities.
The campaign has therefore sought to position Anyaso not simply as another political aspirant, but as a potential partner for communities seeking practical solutions to longstanding challenges.
Across the constituency, discussions surrounding education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, youth empowerment and support for small businesses have increasingly become central to the political conversation.
‘The Future Is Now’
The growing visibility of the movement has also been reflected in campaign materials appearing at strategic locations across communities, bearing the message: “The Future Is Now.”
Another prominent message associated with the campaign reads: “The Choice Is Ofuji Come 2027.”
For supporters, the slogans represent more than campaign branding. They say they reflect a growing belief that Bende can demand a different model of political representation—one centred on accessibility, performance and measurable results.
Political observers, however, note that enthusiasm ahead of an election does not automatically translate into electoral victory. The ultimate test for every aspirant will be the ability to convert grassroots support into a disciplined political organisation and, ultimately, votes at the ballot box.
For now, the political temperature in Bende appears to be rising, with the Anyaso campaign increasingly presenting itself as a movement built around the demand for a more responsive and people-centred representation.
As 2027 approaches, the central question emerging from the constituency may no longer be simply who wants to represent Bende, but who can convince its people that their daily struggles, aspirations and future will remain at the centre of that representation.
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