Abia 2027: Atuma Raises Alarm Over Federal Infrastructure, Jobs Gap in Abia Central

By Godwin Iroadighiogu
Emeka Atuma Media

Emeka Atuma has raised concerns over federal infrastructure, employment opportunities and investment in Abia Central, arguing that stronger representation is needed to attract development to the senatorial district ahead of the 2027 elections.

Emeka Atuma raises concerns over federal infrastructure, employment and investment in Abia Central, calling for stronger representation ahead of the 2027 elections.

Former House of representatives member and the APC senatorial candidate for Abia Central District, Rep. Emeka Atuma has expressed concern over what he described as a shortage of federal infrastructure, employment opportunities and investment in Abia Central.

He argued that the district needed stronger representation to attract federal projects and development interventions.

Atuma made the remarks during the maiden edition of Emeka Atuma Speaks, an hour-long interactive radio programme broadcast live at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

The programme aired on FamilyLove 99.9 FM, Umuahia; Flow 94.9 FM, Umuahia; DON 103.7 FM, Umuahia; and Magic 102.9 FM, Aba.

Speaking on his ambition to represent Abia Central in the Senate in 2027, Atuma linked his decision to his assessment of the district’s developmental needs and what he considers gaps in its federal representation.

Atuma Calls for Stronger Federal Representation

Atuma argued that effective representation goes beyond occupying public office, stressing the importance of engaging federal institutions, participating in legislative processes and pursuing opportunities that can benefit constituents.

Comparing Abia Central with Abia North, he maintained that the senatorial district needed to do more to attract federal infrastructure, employment opportunities and investment.

He cited the reported distribution of approximately 492 federal employment opportunities associated with the representation of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu in Abia North as an example of the kind of opportunities he believes Abia Central should also pursue.

Atuma’s remarks placed federal employment and infrastructure development at the centre of his argument for stronger representation of the district.

Atuma Explains How Party Affiliation Can Influence Representation

The former House of Representatives member also discussed the relationship between party affiliation and legislative effectiveness.

He argued that belonging to the majority caucus could influence a lawmaker’s ability to pursue constituency projects and federal interventions.

Atuma urged voters to look beyond political promises and consider candidates’ records, party platforms and capacity to represent their communities effectively.

Former Lawmaker Highlights Legislative Experience

Reflecting on his political career, Atuma recalled that he entered the House of Representatives at the age of 34 and represented Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency from 2003 to 2007.

While acknowledging the importance of creating opportunities for younger people in politics, he stressed the value of mentorship and adequate preparation for the responsibilities of legislative service.

He maintained that experience, combined with effective engagement, could help lawmakers pursue development opportunities for their constituents.

Atuma Revisits Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene Road

Atuma also spoke about the Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene Road, recalling its condition during his tenure in the House of Representatives.

He claimed that the road had no potholes throughout that period and said documentary evidence relating to its maintenance could be made available.

The APC candidate added that his previous legislative record, including work relating to human development and infrastructure, would be presented for public assessment.

Atuma Speaks on Political Relationships and Cooperation

The discussion also covered the APC primary, Atuma’s political relationships and the need for cooperation among political leaders.

Speaking about Rep. Samuel Onuigbo, Atuma described him as his brother and a good man. He said he had reached out to Onuigbo and expressed confidence that they would work together as a team.

Candidate Promises Inclusive Representation Across Abia Central

In his concluding remarks, Atuma addressed the six local government areas that make up Abia Central, pledging to extend the approach to representation he said he demonstrated during his previous tenure across the entire senatorial district.

He emphasised the need to treat Abia Central as one unified entity, rather than allowing divisions among its constituent communities to undermine collective development.

The maiden edition introduced Emeka Atuma Speaks as a platform for public engagement on Atuma’s background, political outlook and vision for Abia Central. Subsequent editions are expected to feature further discussions on his plans and proposed programmes for the senatorial district.