By Chimezie Ezeji
Dr Chima Matthew Amadi, the Action Peoples Party (APP) senatorial candidate for Imo East Senatorial District, has disclosed that he committed approximately ₦300 million from his personal resources to support communities, organisations and community-based activities across the nine Local Government Areas of Owerri Zone during his August 2026 grassroots tour.
The interventions were made between August 1 and 31 during visits to churches, town unions, autonomous communities, market groups, women’s organisations and other community associations.
According to the campaign, a total of 116 communities and organisations benefited from the interventions during the month.
The largest single intervention was ₦15 million committed during the APP/TMO declaration alongside the Nguru Women, hosted by High Chief Bona Nlemadim. The event also featured the movement of members from other political parties into the APP.
At the end of the month-long tour, ₦12 million was committed to the Naze Peoples Assembly and the Naze Ite Ofe Festival.
Other major interventions included ₦10 million each for the Ndom Uratta “Crown Milk” Women’s Association and the Umuekwunne Women’s August meeting, while the Ndom Ubomiri Women’s Association received ₦6 million.
Five-million-naira interventions were also made to the Logara and Otulu Development Unions in Ngor Okpala, the Umunwoha Women, the Mgbogbuzo Egbu New Yam Festival and the Ogbaku Women’s Autonomous Communities.
Several other groups, including the Okpala Amakohia Development Union, Federation of Orodo Autonomous Communities, Oboama/Umunama Women, Ihiagwa Town Union Women’s Wing, Mbutu Mbaise People’s Assembly, Amaimo Ikeduru Women, Orji Women’s Organisation and Ntu Women, received interventions of ₦3 million and above. Some of the groups also received canopies and other logistical support for their programmes.
Smaller interventions were made to a number of parish groups, town unions and community women’s associations across the zone.
Speaking on the interventions, Amadi said his decision was driven by his belief that communities should receive support even before political office is attained.
“_For me, this is not about how much was given at any particular event. It is about being present and listening to people. I have visited communities, sat with their leaders, met with women and young people, and seen some of the challenges they face firsthand_.”
“_For too long, many communities have had to depend on individuals and private organisations to support basic community development. I believe those who want to lead must first demonstrate that they are willing to serve._”
He said the experience had also strengthened his conviction about what could be achieved with access to the resources and institutional platform of the Senate.
“_What we have done during this period is only what I can personally do with the resources available to me. If given the opportunity to represent Imo East, there will be a much bigger platform to pursue development and attract opportunities to our communities._”
“_I don’t see this as charity. I see it as responsibility. Leadership should not begin after an election. It should begin with the willingness to serve._”
The August tour also featured political activities, including the declaration of members from other political parties in Wards 10 and 11 for the APP in support of Amadi’s candidacy.
According to the campaign, the visits provided an opportunity for the candidate to engage directly with residents across the nine LGAs of Owerri Zone and better understand the priorities of different communities.
“_I have met many people during this tour, and their concerns are clear. They want representation that listens, follows through and remains connected to the people_.”
“_The 116 communities we reached in August are only part of Owerri Zone. There is still much more to do, and I intend to keep engaging with our people._”
Amadi said his campaign would continue to focus on community engagement, economic opportunities, human capital development and improved representation for the people of Imo East.
