Hundreds of residents from Agama Ward on Saturday defied a heavy downpour to attend a campaign rally addressed by David Calvin Echodu, the NRM parliamentary candidate for Soroti City West Division.
The rally, held at Agama Primary School, marked Echodu’s fifth public engagement since officially launching his campaigns and demonstrated growing grassroots enthusiasm despite unfavorable weather.
Supporters began arriving early in the afternoon, many wrapped in raincoats and carrying umbrellas, as persistent rain soaked the grounds.
Yet, the determined crowd remained firm, chanting NRM slogans and singing as they waited for the candidate to address them.
In his opening remarks, Echodu expressed gratitude to the people of Agama for their resilience and commitment.
“I want to thank you, the people of Agama, for braving this heavy rain. This shows your love, your courage, and your determination to bring change to Soroti City West,” Echodu said amid applause.
He described the turnout as a strong sign of trust and confidence from the electorate, noting that true leadership is built on mutual commitment between leaders and the people.
Addressing the crowd, Echodu outlined his development priorities, promising to lobby for improved infrastructure, better health services, and stronger education systems if elected to Parliament.
“Soroti City West needs better roads, improved health facilities, and quality education for our children. These are not favors, they are rights,” he stated.
He pledged to prioritize the rehabilitation of community access roads that become impassable during rainy seasons, saying poor infrastructure continues to affect trade, school attendance, and access to health care.
On health, Echodu promised to follow up on staffing, medicine supply, and equipment at health centers within Soroti City West.
“Our mothers and children should not suffer because of lack of services. I will ensure that health centers receive what they deserve,” he said.
He also emphasized education, pledging to support government programs aimed at improving school infrastructure, reducing dropout rates, and enhancing learning conditions.
“Education is the foundation of development. We must invest in our schools and in our children,” Echodu added.
Echodu cautioned residents against leaders who thrive on propaganda, tribalism, and empty promises, urging voters to focus on unity and development.
“People do not eat lies, and they do not eat tribalism. They eat development, services, and opportunities,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to peaceful campaigns and respectful engagement, encouraging supporters to remain disciplined and focused on issues that affect daily life.
Soroti City NRM Chairperson John Enomu, who also, said the massive turnout despite the rain was proof that residents were ready for change.
“The people of Agama have spoken with their feet. Rain could not stop them because they want better leadership and better services,” Enomu said.
He urged residents to vote for Echodu, describing him as a leader with the capacity to connect Soroti City West to central government and ensure delivery of development programs.
“Echodu is the right choice. He understands your challenges and has the networks to address them. Let us support him so that Agama and the entire Soroti City West can move forward,” Enomu added.
Several residents who spoke to journalists at the rally cited poor roads, flooding, and limited health services as major challenges facing Agama Ward.
“When it rains like this, our roads become muddy. Pregnant mothers struggle to reach health centers. We want a leader who can follow up these issues,” said Erasmus Ejoku.
Youth leaders also expressed optimism that Echodu’s leadership would open more opportunities for skills training and employment.
The Agama rally adds to a series of well-attended campaign events held in Pamba, Orwadai, Amen, and Amen A, signaling increasing momentum for Echodu’s bid.
Despite the rain, supporters stayed until the end of the rally, a gesture Echodu described as a powerful statement of commitment.
“As we move forward, I promise to walk with you, listen to you, and work for you,” Echodu told the crowd.
About Author
