By Okey Maduforo
Confusion continues to mount following Senator Ali Ndume’s suggestion that Mrs. Uchenna Ubah, widow of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, should replace her husband as the Senator representing Anambra South. This proposal, made during the funeral ceremony of the late senator, has sparked debates among kinsmen and community leaders.
Senator Ndume’s call was intended to honor the legacy of the late senator; however, kinsmen of the deceased have opposed the idea, insisting that Mrs. Ubah should be allowed to mourn her husband for at least three months, in accordance with local customs.
Although Mrs. Uchenna Ubah had earlier declined the offer, reports suggest that some members of the community are pressuring her to contest in the forthcoming bye-election for the Anambra South Senatorial District seat.
Sources indicate that the ruling council of Nnewi has dismissed Senator Ndume’s proposal, emphasizing the importance of tradition. “She should be given the time and space to mourn her husband, as custom dictates,” a member of the council reportedly stated.
When contacted, members of the ruling council revealed they have been resisting external pressures to encourage Mrs. Ubah to accept the suggestion. A source within the council expressed concern over political scheming, saying: “This entire situation is being driven by selfish interests. Some individuals are pushing for her to enter the race for reasons that are not in her best interest. Senator Ndume’s suggestion is out of place, as such precedents do not exist in his own region.”
Meanwhile, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is yet to release a timetable for the party’s primaries. According to APC Chairman in Anambra State, Chief Basil Ejidike: “Our party has not commenced the process of organizing primaries. However, we will begin soon in light of the loss of our brother, Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah. While we are not opposed to the suggestion that Mrs. Ubah may contest, it is important to note that all aspirants must participate in the primary election process.”
Efforts to reach Mrs. Uchenna Ubah for comments were unsuccessful, as security operatives at the family residence indicated that she was indisposed. This unfolding situation leaves many wondering whether tradition, political ambition, or community pressure will ultimately shape the outcome of this debate.
