By Alex Agbomma
Last Sunday, when Hon. Peter Udogalaya Aniekwe, popularly known as “MacPee,” walked into the gathering of Anam sons and daughters in Lagos, it was more than just a courtesy call—it was a homecoming, a reunion, and a reaffirmation of political commitment. The event, held under the auspices of the Anam People’s Assembly (APA), Lagos branch, was marked by a dual celebration: a successful reconciliation of Anam people in Lagos after internal conflicts within the association, and the visit of their representative at the House of Representatives.
The atmosphere was warm, the reception enthusiastic. For Aniekwe, it was the right moment to express gratitude to those who helped him secure a seat in the National Assembly to represent Anambra East and West Federal Constituency. But this was not a visit built solely on nostalgia; it was one laden with political undertones and strategic positioning.
“I am in the House of Representatives today because of you,” Aniekwe told his constituents, acknowledging the weight of their support, not only in votes but also in financial backing and moral encouragement. His speech was a mixture of thanksgiving and subtle campaigning—a blend of humility and ambition.
With the 2027 election season gradually drawing near, the first-term lawmaker laid out his scorecard. He declared that, using the allocation from just one year’s budget, he had executed projects across all 25 wards in the constituency. He noted that although the 2025 federal budget had been approved, it was yet to be released, assuring the gathering that more impactful developments were on the way once the funds were available.
While some might consider such claims bold, Aniekwe didn’t hesitate to draw a comparison between himself and other federal lawmakers, stressing that his record of performance within two years surpassed expectations for a first-timer in Abuja. He further highlighted his recent elevation to ECOWAS Parliament membership, which he described as a product of divine favour, another feather that elevated both his personal stature and that of his constituency.
But it was the forward-looking message that resonated the most. Aniekwe made no pretence about his 2027 ambition, boldly asking for continued support. “By then,” he reminded them, “I will be a ranking member, and as you know, that position comes with greater influence and more dividends for our people.”
His plea was not met with silence. The gathering of Anam elites in Lagos echoed his optimism. Chief Sylvester Nnalue didn’t mince words in endorsing Aniekwe for a second term, calling his two-year track record a worthy testament to his leadership. Chief Anthony Nnaemeka (Ogbuevi Eziokwu bu ndu) added his voice, expressing profound satisfaction with the lawmaker’s representation, especially given the often-cited complaint of abandoned constituencies by politicians post-election.
In a rare display of unanimity, the community leaders urged Anam people across Lagos to rally behind Aniekwe’s re-election journey, describing it not just as a personal ambition but as a collective investment in sustained development for the constituency.
As the applause settled and photographs were taken, one thing became clear: the thank-you visit wasn’t just about gratitude for past favours—it was about cementing alliances for the battles ahead. And for Aniekwe, the road to 2027 had just been ceremoniously flagged off in the bustling heart of Lagos, surrounded by the very people who handed him the first key to his political destiny.
The event was majorly sponsored by the “boys” of Chief Raphael Nwabunwanne Okeke Ezeagbo
Meanwhile, as politicians continue to strategize ahead of time, political watchers are wondering if Aniekwe would remain in the Labour Party, especially with its yet to be resolved national leadership tussle or decamp to another political platform.
