By Uzo Ugwunze
Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has categorically denied rumours that he, alongside his other colleagues, embezzled N1 billion meant for their various constituencies, attributing the false claims to malicious blackmailers.
The lawmaker made this clarification following widespread rumours circulating within Ogbaru communities, particularly on social media, that the lawmaker, along with other federal lawmakers, received N1 billion each from the Federal Government for their constituencies and misappropriated it for personal gain.
Hon. Ogene vehemently debunked the rumour, stating that neither he nor any lawmaker received such funds. He attributed the false accusations to wicked blackmailers who maliciously spread unfounded claims in order to destroy reputation of others before the people.
Ogene, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Renewable Energy, stated this in a meeting with traditional rulers, presidents-generals of communities, delegates and other stakeholders during the second anniversary town hall meeting and presentation of scorecard on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Atani, Ogbaru LGA, Anambra state.
He revealed that lawmakers were only asked to recommend projects of N1 billion each for inclusion in the 2025 budget, for their individual constituencies, which were also captured in the current budget that is awaiting implementation by the Executive arm of government saying that by his ingenuity he recommended projects up to the tune of 2. 3 billion naira which has all been approved but yet to be implemented or the funds yet to be disbursed.
Hon Ogene said that his service to the people would continuously be guided by objectivity, sensibility and utmost responsibility. “As I earlier pledged, I will continue to lead from the front, prioritizing the interest, peace, development and progress of Ogbaru in every decision and step I make as your representative,” he assured.
“I will keep investing in Human Capital Development because structures may collapse but people you build or impact today will impact others tomorrow,” said Ogene.
The number and total cost of projects for Ogbaru Federal Constituency in the current budget collaborate Ogene’s position. The projects include massive electricity projects, solar streetlights, water schemes in Ogbaru communities, provision of security vehicles for vigilante, provision of science equipment in schools, construction and equipping of exam halls, training and empowerment of women and youths, , construction of cottage hospital, construction of road, among others.
The lawmaker also revealed in his scorecard presentation that he has sponsored 19 Bills and 12 motions in two years.
In the past six months, Hon. Ogene has also facilitated the installation of streetlights in 27 different communities and locations in Ogbaru Federal Constituency.
Over 250 constituents, including women and youths have also benefited from training and empowerment programmes in different fields including solar technology, ICT, fishery and clean cooking. Each of the beneficiaries also received financial grants and relevant empowerment materials from the lawmaker. He also established scholarship schemes and sponsored payment of WAEC, NECO &JAMB examination fees for several hundreds of students.
Moreover, in his remarks, during the interactive session, former Anambra State commissioner for Information, Chief Dr. Paul Nwosu who was very impressed with Ogene’s litany of achievements and robust representation of Ogbaru Federal Constituency at the floor of the Green Chamber advised the Rep member to develop a shock absorber and remain focused because such unwarranted attacks and criticism was associated with such esteemed position which he was presently occupying.
The Traditional Ruler of Osamala, Okawkwu Victor Awogu, The Chairman of all Presidents General in Ogbaru LGA, Emma Obi, DPO Ogbaru, SP Andrew Gabriel in their separate speeches commended the lawmaker for his Eloquency in the parliament, effective representation and projects attracted saying that both Ogbaru Federal Constituency and Anambra State is proud of him but pleaded for him to look into providing more Security gadgets to fight insecurity and investment in Agriculture which Ogbaru people were known for.
Other requests made by the Constituents include maltreatment of Host communities who are yet to benefit from the proceeds of the crude oil drilled at Ogwuaniocha and Ogwuikpele communities. Atani community also alleged that Federal Polytechnic Oko, Atani campus fenced more than the land donated by the host community. They solicited for INEC to create more political wards and polling units in Ogbaru LGA because of its population density and vastness.
Responding, Ogene advised his Constituents on the need to properly draft formal petitions presenting their grievances to the House of Representatives saying that he would facilitate the invitation and hearing. He also said that INEC has been approached and has agreed to create more political wards and polling units across the country in the near future.