BY FAVOUR PERCY-IDUBOR
After the Senate declared vacant, the Edo Central Senatorial District seat, a governorship aspirant in the last Edo State Election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joseph Ikpea has declared his intention to represent the people of Edo Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly.
Addressing journalists at a press conference in Benin-City, Edo State capital, Ikpea said his intention to represent Edo Central Senatorial district is inspired by dedication, passion and integrity.
The former Esan South- East Local Government chairman and former commissioner for Minerals, Oil and Gas in Edo State noted that he remains a loyal and steadfast member of the APC and that he contributes to the growth and success of the party at all levels.
According to him “having served as chairman of Edo State Library Board, promoting literacy and educational development in our state, also as a 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 (2015 and 2023), my experience in both public and private sectors prepared me to bring a robust, informed perspective to legislative duties.”
“I stand here not just as an individual but as an epitome of our collective aspirations. My deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges of Edo Central puts me in a prime position to to represent our Senatorial district effectively.
“I make bold to state that I’m a throughbred politician, a grassroots leader, a loyal and committed member of the party. So I will use my office, when elected, to further strengthen service to the people and the party.”
“When elected as a senator, I will ensure the advancement of the vision and progress of Edo Central Senatorial District. I fully understand that the primary responsibility of a senator is to make laws, help in reviewing policies, and oversight functions to ensure effective governance of the country.
“On my part, 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 advocate for federal 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.