Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, the Labour Party representative for Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, has come under heavy criticism following an empowerment programme where constituents were given plastic buckets, notebooks, and hair dryers—items many have dismissed as inadequate and insulting.
The lawmaker’s recent event, which reportedly provided over 200 women and widows with vocational training in soap making, makeup, and hairdressing, was meant to promote grassroots economic self-reliance, according to his media team. They stated the initiative aimed to equip participants with both skills and start-up materials to help them launch small businesses.
However, the distribution of what many consider basic and trivial items has sparked outrage both within the constituency and online. Critics argue that such gestures fall short of genuine empowerment, especially from a federal legislator whose office is expected to attract substantial development projects to the region.
“This is a disgrace to the people of Arochukwu/Ohafia,” one resident posted on social media. “We will not forget this in 2027.”
Supporters of Hon. Osonwa have defended the programme, claiming it has been deliberately misrepresented. They insist that the distributed tools were directly aligned with the training provided and part of a broader effort to support women and youth in the area.
Nevertheless, the controversy reflects a deeper frustration among constituents, who say symbolic or token interventions are no substitute for sustainable infrastructure, job creation, and real development in a region still plagued by neglect and poverty.
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