In the heart of the ancient land of Ohafia, Hon. Ibe was born into the illustrious Chief Okwara Osonwa family of Ebem-Ohafia. As he graciously marks his 49th birthday today, this iconic personality, often referred to as Oke Abba of Ohafia, invites us to reflect upon a legacy studded with exceptional achievements. A technocrat, seasoned financial expert, and a visionary leader.
Biography
Ibe Okwara Osonwa was born on December 24, 1974, in London. He hails from Ebem Ohafia and received his early education at Federal Government College Okigwe, where he obtained his first school leaving certificate (FSLC). He pursued higher education at the University of North London, earning a degree in Accounting. Driven by his passion for education, he pursued a second degree in International Business.
After completing the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program in Lagos State, Ibe Okwara embarked on a career in the Financial Sector. Known for his belief in equity and justice, he has been actively involved in addressing societal imbalances, particularly in the mistreatment of the elderly. Through his notable charity work, he has made a positive impact on society. In recognition of his services to community development, he was honored with the chieftaincy title of Oke-Abba Ohafia 1 by the Ohafia Council of Chiefs on April 16, 2022.
Career
Ibe Okwara’s professional journey began as an Advisory Analyst with Bromley Asset Management, where he played an active role in establishing the first mobile network in Nigeria (Econet). With years of experience in the financial sector, he went on to become a qualified SAP FICO consultant. He subsequently established his own private consultancy, offering financial advisory services to esteemed clients such as Deutsche Bank and Merrill Lynch. His consultancy has delivered exceptional advice and solutions across diverse sectors, including telecommunications, oil and gas, media, manufacturing, business management, and construction.
In 2016, Ibe Okwara co-founded People’s Grassroot Social Equality and Development Initiative Nigeria (PSGEDI), an initiative focused on empowering Nigerian youth through charitable donations. He is also a founding member of the People’s Equity Movement, a political platform advocating for the equal participation of young Nigerians in political.
Politics
As an economist, technocrat, and politician, Ibe Okwara represents the Arochukwu/Ohafia federal constituency of Abia State in the House of Representatives. He began his political journey as the flag bearer of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and later transitioned to the Labour Party. On June 16, 2022, he was presented with a certificate of return by the Labour Party’s National Working Committee (NWC) as their candidate for the Arochukwu/Ohafia federal constituency. In the subsequent House of Representatives election held on February 25, 2023, he emerged victorious, securing the seat.
Family
Ibe Okwara was born into the family of Chief Okwara Osonwa Okwara and Chief Mrs. Grace Okwara. He is a devout Christian, a dedicated family man, and happily married to Abosede Okwara. Their blessed union has been enriched by the presence of three beautiful children.
Motions Moved
Ibe Okwara is a firm believer in equity and takes action to challenge the injustices he observes in society. In 2017, he initiated a foundation that provided food to the Gongola Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Abuja. Through strategic partnerships with NGOs, he has organized free medical and healthcare outreaches in Arochukwu and Ohafia LGA, amounting to a contribution of US$3.5 million in 2018 and 2019. During the pandemic, his foundation distributed palliative materials to communities, and in response to distress calls, it provided relief materials to Nkporo communities affected by heavy flooding.
On October 18, 2020, during the decentralized social movement End SARS protests at the Lekki toll gate, Ibe Okwara Osonwa fearlessly spoke truth to power. With resilience and passion, he highlighted the urgent need to end the horrendous violence.
Vision
Ibe Okwara’s vision is rooted in the pain and struggles experienced by his people. He perceives himself as a selfless servant leader entrusted with fighting for the interests of the people of the Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency. His primary goal is to effectively serve the people and enhance their quality of life. His inclusive approach, integrity, and empathy drive him to involve the entire community in the decision making process. He values all voices, displays strong leadership skills, and sets long-term goals for his constituents while addressing their short-term needs. With a comprehensive policy manifesto, Ibe Okwara outlines his plans to foster positive change for his constituents and the wider federation of Nigeria. His objectives include supporting schemes for widows and the elderly, creating employment opportunities and empowering the youth, developing infrastructure for public schools and hospitals, providing interest-free loans for traders, promoting sports development, engaging regularly with constituents, and actively supporting developmental bills in the National Assembly.
Objectives
Representing constituents: Ibe Okwara’s primary responsibility is to represent the people of Arochukwu and Ohafia Local Governments. This involves engaging consistently with constituents, understanding their needs and concerns, advocating for policies and legislation that address those needs, and being accessible and responsive to their questions and concerns.
Addressing economic growth: Ibe Okwara aims to propose and support policies that stimulate economic growth, encourage entrepreneurship, and attract investment. He prioritizes creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, partnering with the private sector to drive innovation and emerging technologies, and promoting infrastructure development.
Policy-making and legislation: Actively participating in the development and implementation of policies and legislation that benefit constituents and the nation at large. Ibe Okwara strives to make informed decisions that support good governance while upholding fundamental principles of equality, inclusiveness, and fairness.
Public health concerns: Recognizing deficiencies in local and national healthcare systems, Ibe Okwara intends to propose and support policies that improve access to quality healthcare, disease prevention, mental health support, funding research, and investing in frontline workers.
Enhancing public safety through social programs: Addressing public safety issues within the constituency, including police reform and mental health, by partnering with relevant agencies to implement policies and legislation that promote safety. The objective is to create a safer, more sustainable, and productive society for constituents.
