Dame Lady Ann Dozie, a former commissioner in Imo State and a top women mobilizer in Owerri North, has backed Prince (Dr) Alex Mbata’s bid to represent Owerri Zone in the Senate, saying his longstanding record of humanitarian service distinguishes him from other contenders in the 2027 race.
Dozie made the remarks on July 25, 2026, while receiving members of the PAM Women Facilitators during a courtesy visit. Her comments, contained in a video shared on social media, focused on what she described as Mbata’s longstanding engagement with communities across Owerri Zone.
She cited an Igbo proverb, “Ihe agba na aka anaghi eji eyo ele ya,” meaning that what is already in one’s hands does not require a lamp to find. Dozie used the saying to argue that Mbata’s contributions to the people are already visible and do not need to be introduced to those who have followed his activities over the years.
According to her, Prince Mbata has built a reputation through humanitarian interventions and community-focused initiatives involving young people, women, widows, elderly residents and other vulnerable groups.
Dozie also referred to the expression, “Eeh… amarala ya kemgbe gboo gboo,” translated as, “Yes, we have known him for a very long time.” She said the statement reflected the familiarity many residents have with Mbata and his activities outside the immediate context of electoral politics.
The former commissioner said the question before voters should not be limited to what political aspirants promise during campaigns but should also include what they have done before seeking public office.
She argued that the credibility of a candidate should, in part, be assessed through their previous record of engagement with the people. In her assessment,Mbata’s humanitarian activities provide a basis for considering his capacity to represent the zone.
Dozie further drew a distinction between candidates with established records of community engagement and those whose public visibility, she suggested, has largely coincided with election seasons. She maintained that prior service should be an important consideration when voters make their choices.
Prince Mbata, who is seeking the APC ticket for the Imo East senatorial contest, has continued to receive endorsements from individuals and groups within Owerri Zone.
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