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Edo Central Bye Election: Ikpea Declares Intention To Contest
…Says I will represent the district with dedication, passion and integrity.
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin City
A former governorship Aspirant in the last Edo State Election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Joseph Ikpea has formally declared his intention to represent the good people of Edo Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly.
Addressing journalists in a press conference in Benin, Edo State capital, Hon. Ikpea said his commitment to represent Edo Central Senatorial district is with dedication, passion and integrity.
The former Esan South-East local government council chairman and former Commissioner for Minerals, Oil and Gas in Edo State whose track record speak volumes noted that he remain a loyal and steadfast member of the APC and contributing to the growth and success of the party at all levels.
According to him, “Having served as Chairman, Edo State Library Board – promoting literacy and educational development in our state, as member who represented Edo Central in Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) – ensuring that our people’s voices were reflected in education policies and also served as a two-time Presidential Delegate Member (2015 and 2023), my experience in both public and private sectors have prepared me to bring a robust, informed perspective to legislative duties.”
Going further, the Oil and Gas mogul said, “I stand here not just as an individual but as a representative of our collective aspirations. My deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges of Edo Central positions me to represent our district effectively.
“I make bold to state that I am an experienced politician, a grassroots leader, a loyal and committed member of the party. I will use my office, when elected, to further strengthen my allegiance to the party and the good people of Esan Land.”
Hon. Ikpea who expressed his profound gratitude to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo on his exemplary leadership, wisdom, and political foresight noted that Governor Okpebholo have not only advanced the interest of Edo State but have also significantly propelled the progress of our great Edo Central Senatorial District.
“When elected Senator, I will ensure that I continue from where he has stopped as a senator, advancing the vision and progress of Edo Central Senatorial District.
“As a senator, I fully understand that the primary responsibility of a senator is to make laws, review policies, and provide oversight to ensure effective governance.
“I will draft and sponsor bills addressing critical areas such as education reform, healthcare accessibility, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development. I will move motions that address pressing local issues like community security, environmental sustainability, and equitable resource allocation.
“I will advocacy for Federal government presence, increase federal investment in our district, focusing on infrastructure projects like roads, schools, and healthcare facilities to boost our socio-economic landscape.
“I will ensure that federal projects and interventions allocated to our district are implemented effectively, holding relevant agencies accountable for delivery.
“I will support legislative measures that create enabling environments for youth empowerment, skill acquisition, and the economic inclusion of women.
“I will create constituency offices across the five local government areas of the senatorial district, providing a direct and accessible channel for communication, service delivery, and feedback. These offices will ensure that I remain connected to the needs of my constituents and serve them effectively.
“I will foster strong collaboration with the executive arm to complement its efforts while maintaining legislative independence to uphold the rule of law.
“My decision to run for Senate is anchored on my faith in God and my trust in the collective strength of the people of Edo Central. I am not running for the office of the Senate for personal aggrandizement, nor is it for any inordinate ambition. But it is indeed a true call to serve the good people of Edo Central Senatorial District. I will be your servant when elected.
“I am not running to impose my vision but to co-create a future with you – a future that ensures equitable development, effective laws, and robust representation of our district at the national level.
“This journey is not about me alone; it is about us. Together, we can craft laws, influence policies, and build a prosperous Edo Central that future generations will be proud of.”
