How Chief Andy Azike won NDC Primary, emerged candidate for Aguata Federal Constituency
By Ekekwe Ugwu Nkonu:
Chief Andy Azike (Ogbuji-Opia), recently emerged the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Aguata Federal Constituency seat in the Federal House of Representatives.
An accomplished professional and insurance guru, Chief Azike’s emergence confirmed the overwhelming support he enjoys among NDC members and the wider populace across the constituency.
His candidacy reflects the confidence placed in his character, competence, and vision for Aguata. Running on his now-familiar mantra, Let’s Do It Differently, he campaigns on accountability, frugality, and results-driven representation — values that resonate strongly with NDC faithful.
Speaking after his emergence was announced, an elated Chief Azike expressed deep gratitude to the party leadership and the people of Aguata.
He said, “This victory belongs to the people of Aguata.
“You have trusted me with this mandate and I will not betray that trust. We will keep our promise and do things differently, with integrity, purpose, and your voice at the centre of everything we do,” he stated.
Chief Andy Azike is a distinguished professional with over four decades at the apex of Nigeria’s insurance and financial services industry, and he brings a rare blend of grassroot identity and elite professional pedigree to this race.
A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute, London (FCII), Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (FCIIN), and Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Brokers (FCIB), Chief Azike ranks among the most credentialed professionals to seek election to the Federal House from Anambra State.
His career includes a landmark three-year stint managing the Shell Bonga FPSO insurance underwriting programme in London, Africa’s largest financial asset, and leadership roles at UNIC Insurance Plc, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, and Coral International Insurance Ltd. In 2010, he founded Platform Insurance Brokers Ltd, now a trusted risk consultancy serving industry giants including Innoson Group, Ibeto Group, NNPC/AITEO JV, Nigerian Railway Corporation, NIMASA, and NLNG.
His traditional title, Ogbuji-Opia, meaning “Human Shield,” is not merely ceremonial. It captures his leadership philosophy: courageous, people-centred, and selfless. He does not hide behind the people; he stands in front of them.
Throughout his engagements, Chief Azike has been consistent about his priorities: agro-industrialisation, technical education, youth employment, and accessible healthcare.
“Aguata will not be silent in Abuja,” he said. “Not on my watch.”
Aligning with the ethos of the NDC and its standard-bearer, Mr. Peter Obi, Chief Azike has consistently emphasised integrity and frugality as governing principles.
“Every kobo must count,” he said. “That is not a promise, but a covenant. That is how I have run every organisation I have been privileged to lead.”
With his emergence now confirmed, Chief Azike turns his full attention to the general election, where he will carry the NDC flag for Aguata Federal Constituency. His campaign machinery is expected to swing into full gear as he reaches out to voters across all wards in Aguata Local Government Area.
