“Destiny is not a matter of chance, but of choice. Not something to wish for but to attain”

Destiny is a matter of choice. A decision left to chance ends in disaster. Countries that have made progress in the past did so by taking wise decisions and making right choices. As our nation begins a new chapter after marking our centenary, the need for visionary and competent leadership has become more urgent than ever. To lead Nigeria and her people in a new direction of inclusive growth, accelerated development, infrastructural renaissance, technological advancement and youth empowerment, there is need for the people of Nigeria to make the right choices in the 2015 election.

A wise man once said that “you cannot build a reputation on what you can do”. So in the contest for power, only those who through past records have shown their love for humanity should be considered for elective positions. One of such persons is a successful industrialist and philanthropist, Chief Sylvester Okonkwo. Born 55 years ago, the UNN trained lawyer is an indigene of Ojoto community in Idemilli North local government area of Anambra State.

Chief Sylvester Okonkwo is not a greenhorn in politics. As far back as 1991, he was elected the state publicity secretary of the defunct SDP in Anambra state. As a foundation member of PDP, he participated actively in what has become the largest party in Africa. He has participated in all the national conventions and congresses of the party and in 2011 general elections; he served in the committee that screened all the PDP governorship and Presidential candidates. Because of Chief Okonkwo’s dedication to duty and passion for transformation, the Governor of Akwa ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio appointed him a special adviser although he is not an indigene of that State.

The uncommon transformation and visible change that ‘the land of promise’ has witnessed, was made possible by the tireless effort of men like Chief Sylvester Okonkwo who worked closely with the Governor in helping him actualize his laudable vision. With his background as a lawyer, his unreserved love for his people demonstrated by his philanthropy, the vast experience he has garnered as an industrialist, a loyal party man and an aide to the best governor in Nigeria, it is no surprise that his people are clamoring for him to represent Anambra Central at the Senate.

Chief Sylvester Okonkwo will not be a bench warmer in the Senate, his training as a lawyer has prepared him for robust debate and critical thinking. He will continue doing what he enjoys doing best, which is helping the underprivileged, empowering youths and women, and contributing to the progress of the nation. The only way to predict the future is to take charge of destiny. The youths of Anambra Central senatorial zone, knowing that this wonderful man can secure a bright future for them, are rallying support for him to vie for the senatorial election. The People’s Democratic Party PDP will be making the right decision by giving the people’s choice, Chief Sylvester Okonkwo, the party flag for the Anambra central senatorial election.

Steven Covey once said that, “what you do is far greater than what you say”. When the people of Anambra central go to the ballot next year, they will vote for Chief Sylvester Okonkwo not for the promises he will make but for the promises he has kept and the numerous community projects he has undertaken.

JCIN Cllr Anaduaka Churchill is a political affairs analyst. He is an NYSC Governor’s Honors recipient.