"I LEFT THE PDP BECAUSE DOGS CANNOT CONTINUE TO EAT DOG" – Says Barr. Uzum

The January edition of the Ika Peoples Congress (IPC) Hot Seat was nothing short of riveting, as Barr. E. A. Uzum, the guest of the month, showcased remarkable intelligence, courage, and composure while addressing tough questions from the host, Ewere Okonta, and other members of the audience. This session, as expected, provided a thought-provoking exploration of the pressing issues confronting the Ika Nation, and Barr. Uzum did not shy away from speaking his mind.

The IPC, formerly known as Ika Village Square (IVS), is a platform designed to foster intellectual engagement and community-oriented dialogue among professionals of Ika descent. The hot seat is anchored by Ewere Okonta, a lecturer at the University of Delta, Agbor, and a renowned social media influencer. The monthly event has become a beacon of truth and accountability in the Ika Nation. It probes the pressing issues affecting the region and its people, challenging invited guests to provide insights and solutions. This month, the “hot seat” lived up to its reputation, and Barr. Uzum delivered with poise and substance.

ON CHALLENGES FACING THE IKA NATION: 

Barr. Uzum opened the session by addressing the core issues facing the Ika Nation and outlined his thoughts on the way forward. He emphasized that the key to solving the region’s challenges lies in reorienting both leadership and followership. According to him, “Orientation on what true followership is all about is the key. Leadership and management of followership through the right mindset sensitization are very important.” Uzum highlighted the need for a collective rethinking of attitudes and a strategic approach to governance that prioritizes service over self-interest. He further stated that the synergy between informed followership and ethical leadership would create a more progressive and unified Ika Nation.

ON LEAVING THE PDP:

Barr. Uzum’s departure from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was a major topic of discussion, with the host probing for details about what led to his decision. Uzum described his relationship with the PDP as mutually beneficial, stating, “PDP gave the platform; we added our values and won all elections up until we lost the presidential elections in 2023 in Delta State.”

When asked if his exit was tied to the lack of political appointment under the present government, he refuted such claims unequivocally: “Capital No. It was a wrong impression sold to justify a certain level of unfairness. I did not leave for lack of appointment; I left on principle to keep my sanity. The PDP system became so low in my view to comprehend, so I left.”

He elaborated on his decision, stressing that his political choices are guided by values of equity, fairness, boldness, and integrity. He said, “I stand for equity, fairness, boldness, and confrontational integrity. Dogs cannot continue to eat dog.” Uzum made it clear that his departure from the PDP was not borne out of bitterness but rather a matter of principle.

ON HIS POLITICAL FUTURE:

The conversation naturally shifted to Uzum’s political future, particularly speculation about his potential candidacy for the Ika North East House of Assembly seat in 2027. He dismissed the idea outright, saying, “Take it to the bank, I won’t run for Assembly in 2027. I won’t run against Marilyn Okowa; she is doing well.”

Reflecting on his experience in 2015, when he had initially considered running for the Assembly, he recounted a story of unfulfilled promises: “I was assured, given all hope, and told not to buy forms until they directed. I was obedient and loyal, but after everything, they said I didn’t have the temperament. The same temperament I used to serve them!”

Uzum emphasized that he believes the Assembly is best suited for younger people, explaining, “Assembly should be for people under 30 to 40 years. I am ripe for House of the Representatives, but Ika North East has been there since 2011, and my conscience cannot match contesting.” Regarding other positions, he remarked, “The Senate is for the lions and hyenas and born to rule. Governorship is zoned. I’m not contesting against anyone, but I will support my candidate with my capacity.”

ON ATTRACTING MULTINATIONAL COMPANIES TO IKA LAND:

One of the session’s highlights was Uzum’s candid assessment of how Ika land could attract multinational corporations. He expressed regret over missed opportunities during the previous administration, saying, “We missed it in the last administration. The people around the then governor were too greedy.”

He emphasized the need for leaders with integrity and vision who can create an enabling environment for economic growth. According to Uzum, the lack of foresight and greed in leadership had hindered the Ika’s potential to attract investment and development. He called for a more strategic approach to governance that prioritizes long-term benefits over short-term gains.

ON LIFE WITHOUT POLITICAL PATRONAGE: 

Barr. Uzum also opened up about his life outside the political limelight. He admitted that the transition was initially challenging, stating, “At first, it wasn’t easy. I wept in my dreams. The betrayal was too much. Someone I called in, supported, and could die for... threw our collective views and discourse into the public domain.”

However, he noted that the experience had been transformative, allowing him to focus more on family and personal growth. “I am healthier now with great attachment to family,” he said, emphasizing the importance of resilience and prioritizing personal well-being over political struggles.

THE IPC HOT SEAT LEGACY:

The Ika Peoples Congress (IPC), continues to gain prominence as a platform for intellectual discourse and community engagement. Chaired by Barr E. A. Uzum, the IPC—formerly known as the Ika Village Square (IVS)—has carved a niche as an association of young professionals committed to the development of Ika Nation.

The monthly hot seat sessions, under the watchful eyes of the host Ewere Okonta, have become a space where tough questions meet candid answers. The forum’s mission to address topical issues affecting the Ika people and to hold leaders accountable has earned it widespread admiration.

As the January session drew to a close, audience members were left with lingering questions and anticipation for the next edition. Who will be the next guest on the IPC Hot Seat? One thing is certain: the platform will continue to push the boundaries of dialogue and advocacy for the Ika people.

Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor.