The member representing Aba North/South Federal Constituency, Hon. Mascot Ikwechegh, has described former Chief of Army Staff, Azubuike Ihejirika, as a patriotic Nigerian whose service brought honour not only to Abia State and the South-East, but to the entire country.
Speaking to journalists after a grand ceremony held to mark Ihejirika’s 70th birthday at the International Conference Centre, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, Ikwechegh praised the retired general’s leadership, saying his time in office was marked by courage and dedication to national security.
“We remember how he served Nigeria as Chief of Army Staff and how he confronted insecurity and terrorism during his tenure,” Ikwechegh said.
He added that Ihejirika’s patriotism and commitment remain inspiring, noting that the large number of respected guests at the event showed the high regard people have for him.
“It is a joyful day. The calibre of men and women gathered here shows the honour and respect he commands,” he said.
Ikwechegh prayed for long life and good health for the retired general and expressed hope that Nigerians would gather again in ten years to celebrate his 80th birthday. He also wished continued blessings and protection for Ihejirika’s family.
Speaking on the 2027 elections, Ikwechegh said his decision to run would depend on the wishes of his constituents in Aba. He stressed that politics is about service and representation.
“If my people in Aba want me to continue delivering the dividends of democracy and quality representation, I am willing to serve again as their chief servant,” he said.
He added that Aba remains active and well represented in the National Assembly and across Nigeria, promising to sustain effective representation.
Ikwechegh also expressed strong support for real-time electronic transmission and collation of election results. He acknowledged that public policy debates often involve differing opinions but stressed that embracing technology is essential to improving Nigeria’s electoral system.
“I support electronic transmission and real-time collation. That is the only way to truly strengthen our democracy and ensure that votes count,” he said, warning that manual collation creates opportunities for manipulation and could harm democratic progress.
“This is 2026, not 1945. We must embrace growth and progress,” he added, noting that the National Assembly would harmonize its position with the Senate after proper review.
Responding to concerns about poor network coverage in some areas, Ikwechegh said practical solutions could address such challenges.
“We should not endanger the entire country’s electoral system because of a few areas with network issues,” he said.
He urged political leaders to put national interest above party politics, emphasizing that electoral reforms should be pursued for the long-term good of the country and future generations.
