The Senator‑elect for Imo North, Patrick Ndubueze, speaks to Tope Omogbolagun about his journey to the 10th Senate. When asked how easy it was for a first‑time member to win, he replies, “At the risk of sounding immodest, in terms of experience, qualifications and balance, I stand head and shoulders above the other contestants. It would have been anomalous if I didn’t win. I am an economist and an engineer with over 35 years of experience. I hail from Umualumoke in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, and I am a member of both the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers. My exposure to the issues specific to my zone, coupled with the fact that the Otanchara‑Otanzu bloc—my community—had never before represented the senatorial district, made my victory inevitable. Priests, elders, artisans, youths and the entire Okigwe people pledged their support, and several political parties and stakeholders endorsed me on the grounds of competence, character, equity and fairness.”
Regarding the “tsunami” of support for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Ndubueze notes, “Many popular candidates, even incumbent senators and governors, lost to that wave, but I persisted. This 2023 election was my fourth attempt at the Senate. I first contested in 1998, then again about 14 years later, both unsuccessfully. Rather than give up, I realized that the Otanchara‑Otanzu bloc had never had the opportunity to represent Imo North. Determined to break that jinx, and to the glory of God, we achieved it. The people of Okigwe saw the need to send a worthy candidate to the Red Chamber, to achieve equity, unity, peace and prosperity in the zone. They believed in me and my aspirations and brought me to power.”
When asked if he was confident of winning this time, he reflects on his early leadership roles: “As a child I was always entrusted with positions of leadership—from primary school to university, where I was elected deputy president of the Student Union Government. In 1992, at age 29, I seized the opportunity to serve in the House of Representatives. I chaired the Grade A Committee on Works and Housing, and my signature achievements included establishing the federal prison farm settlement with its cottage industries in Okigwe LGA and attracting the reconstruction of the Owerri‑Okigwe Road, which had been abandoned after the military takeover. My subsequent Senate bids were driven by the desire to build on that experience. I now have the expertise needed to represent my people effectively. The current National Assembly comprises experienced, competent, and capable individuals, and I am confident it will generate bills that greatly impact Nigerians.”
On the prospect of Senate leadership positions, Ndubueze declines to comment, citing party directives: “I will not discuss the Senate presidency or zoning. However, given the prevailing power equation, equity demands that the Senate presidency should come to the South‑East. Our party has said the issue will be addressed after the governorship and House of Assembly polls.”
He outlines what his constituents can expect: “Okigwe should expect the best representation. I promised this during the campaign and I am committed to fulfilling it. The nation and the people come first. I bring renewed hope, capacity, experience and all the necessary tools for proper representation. Having served briefly in the House of Representatives and gained further experience over the years, our people can expect nothing short of the best. My constituents are overwhelmed with joy because, at last, their will has prevailed.”
Regarding allegations of irregularities in the February 25 National Assembly poll, he responds, “When I look at the pedigree of those elected to the 10th Senate, it is clear they possess the experience and capacity to craft notable legislation that will drive development. This is a crucial period in Nigeria’s history, with many challenges ahead. I am confident the 10th Assembly will meet the expectations of over 200 million Nigerians.”
When asked about the nature of the new Assembly, he says, “The legislature’s duty comprises lawmaking, representation and oversight. The current Senate is composed of individuals who understand our nation’s challenges, so we will not jeopardize our constituents’ interests for politics. We will maintain a cordial and efficient working relationship with the executive, enabling us to achieve greater things swiftly—always putting citizens and the nation first.”
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