The attention of supporters and stakeholders across Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency has been drawn to a misleading and ill-motivated AI generated videos being circulated and article authored by one Chinedu Gerald Esokwu and circulated on the Asaba Development Union Worldwide Facebook page and other Social Media handles, wherein unfounded allegations were made against the immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, OON.
Ordinarily, such a publication, clearly laced with conjecture, distortion, and political mischief, would not deserve a response. However, in the interest of setting the record straight and preventing unsuspecting members of the public from being misled, it has become necessary to address these insinuations.
At the outset, it must be emphasized that the assertions of “mentorship failure” and “political greed” are not only baseless but also deliberately crafted to undermine the towering achievements and enduring political relevance of Rt. Hon. Elumelu. These claims conveniently ignore the incontrovertible fact that leadership in a democracy is ultimately determined by the people through the ballot, not by contrived narratives or social media rhetoric.
For over two decades, Rt. Hon. Elumelu has continued to enjoy the overwhelming confidence and support of his constituents. His repeated electoral successes are not a product of “control,” as mischievously suggested, but a clear reflection of his performance, accessibility, dedication and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
Contrary to the false narrative being peddled, Elumelu’s political journey is replete with verifiable instances of mentorship, empowerment, and deliberate capacity-building. Numerous individuals who have served and are still serving as councillors, supervisors, special advisers, Commissioners, party executives, and key stakeholders across the four Local Government Areas within the constituency can attest to the opportunities and platforms he has provided.
It is, therefore, both illogical and disingenuous to suggest that leadership is a “failure” simply because individuals who have benefitted from such mentorship have not chosen or have not yet been positioned, to contest a particular office. Leadership is not imposed; it is earned through preparation, acceptance, and the ability to connect with the electorate.
Moreover, the attempt to portray Rt. Hon. Elumelu as one who is unwilling to “step aside” is not only speculative but also betrays a poor understanding of democratic processes. At no point has he imposed himself on the electorate. Each mandate he has received was freely given by the people, who remain the ultimate custodians of political power.
The author’s attempt to incite the younger generation by suggesting that their future is being “blocked” is equally misleading. On the contrary, Rt. Hon. Elumelu has consistently championed youth inclusion, providing platforms for young people to grow within the political space. Many of today’s emerging leaders in the constituency are direct beneficiaries of his guidance and support.
What is most revealing, however, is the timing of this publication and AI generated videos, It comes on the heels of the hugely successful consultative and interactive meetings recently held by Rt. Hon. Elumelu with APC Executives at the Local and Ward levels, as well as with critical leaders of the party across the four Local Government Areas of the constituency. The overwhelming acceptance, unity, and renewed political momentum recorded during these engagements have evidently unsettled certain detractors, who have now resorted to continued propaganda in a desperate attempt to distort public perception.
Let it be clearly stated: no amount of revisionist commentary can erase the solid track record of service, representation, and leadership that Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu has built over the years.
While constructive criticism remains a vital component of democracy, it must be anchored on facts, fairness, and sincerity of purpose, not on envy, bitterness, speculation, or hidden political agendas.
Rt. Hon. Elumelu remains focused, committed, and resolute in his service to the people. His leadership continues to inspire confidence, foster unity, and drive development across the constituency.
The people of Aniocha/Oshimili are discerning enough to distinguish between genuine leadership and politically motivated distractions. They have done so repeatedly in the past and will undoubtedly continue to do so. In the end, facts will always outweigh fiction, and performance will always silence propaganda.
In all, the undisputable fact is that in a democracy as ours, no Nigerian is hindered to engage in electoral contest. Chinedu Gerald Esokwu and his ilk are absolutely free to join a political party, out of the many in the country; test their popularity by standing for election, reel out their programmes and seek the mandate of the people instead of this resort to lame, parochial and baseless invectives.
