By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA — Ugochukwu Young, a House of Representatives candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) for the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency of the Federal Capital Territory, has outlined an agenda centred on constituency participation, legislative reforms, accountability, housing and security.
Young disclosed his plans on Wednesday in Abuja while responding to questions from members of the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) on his political ambition and proposed legislative priorities.
He said his decision to contest was motivated by his desire to contribute to Nigeria’s political system and promote what he described as more effective representation in the National Assembly.
According to him, his understanding of the role of lawmakers changed over time, particularly his appreciation of the legislature’s responsibility to scrutinise government actions, make laws and provide checks and balances.
Young said he initially stayed away from politics because he believed it did not directly concern him, but later came to understand how political decisions affect the daily lives and future of citizens.
He said his objective was to bring what he described as fresh ideas to the House of Representatives while maintaining direct communication with constituents.
‘My agenda is the people’s agenda’
A major component of Young’s proposed agenda is greater participation by residents in determining constituency priorities.
He proposed quarterly town hall meetings where residents of AMAC and Bwari would identify pressing community needs and participate in discussions on projects and interventions.
“My agenda is the people’s agenda,” he said.
Young also argued that elected representatives should not personally claim credit for projects funded through public resources, stressing the importance of transparency in constituency representation.
Rent regulation
The YPP candidate identified rising accommodation costs as another issue he intends to address if elected.
He said he would pursue legislative measures aimed at addressing excessive rent increases and other charges affecting tenants, particularly young Nigerians.
Young also said his foundation would provide pro-bono legal assistance to people facing eviction or tenancy-related disputes.
Security and technology
On security, Young said his team was examining technology-based approaches to help tackle “one-chance” robbery incidents and improve residents’ ability to identify vehicles suspected of being involved in criminal activities.
He said technology could complement existing security efforts and provide residents with additional tools for reporting and responding to security concerns.
Youth participation in politics
Young also placed emphasis on encouraging greater participation of young Nigerians in politics.
He said he would promote awareness of the political process and encourage more young people to seek elective positions rather than remain spectators in governance.
Beyond these areas, he said his proposed agenda would also cover education, healthcare and other community needs, with priorities determined through engagement with constituents.
Promises direct communication with constituents
Young identified accountability as one of the challenges confronting Nigeria’s political system and said he would maintain regular engagement with constituents if elected.
He said such engagement would include physical meetings as well as digital communication platforms.
The candidate also said he was entering the contest without what he described as a political godfather, adding that he intended to remain focused on the interests of the people he seeks to represent.
Young said he would rather leave political office and return to his business than compromise his principles simply to remain in power.
Business and professional background
Young, who is from Anambra State and has lived in the Federal Capital Territory for more than 15 years, described himself as a businessman and politician.
He said he studied Electrical/Electronics Engineering and is Chairman of Ugo Group, with business interests in hospitality, construction, real estate, automobiles and logistics.
He said his experience outside politics would inform his approach to public service if elected to represent the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency.
His proposed agenda, he added, would be driven by regular consultation with constituents and a focus on issues directly affecting residents.
