ICT University for Akoko-Edo and Special Attention Status for Akoko-Edo LGA – Olumide Akpata, LP Candidate

TipsNews, USA

Igarra, Edo State: The Akoko-Edo Development Association (also known as Akoko-Edo Forum) recently hosted Mr. Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata, the Labour Party Governorship candidate, in its “Meet the Candidates” series. This platform allows candidates seeking elective offices to present their plans for Akoko-Edo LGA. During the well-attended virtual interactive session, Mr. Akpata addressed the marginalization of Akoko-Edo in Edo State and Nigeria as a critical issue that requires urgent attention and decisive action.

Mr. Akpata emphasized the systemic neglect of Akoko-Edo, which has existed since the days of the old Midwest Region. He stated, “I will bend over backward to ensure Akoko-Edo catches up with other parts of the state.” He further pledged, “I believe in justice and am particularly pained with the Akoko-Edo situation. I will champion the creation of more LGAs or LCDAs if elected.” He stressed that Akoko-Edo deserves “affirmative action” and intense intervention to resolve this systemic problem of underdevelopment and lack of representation in key positions in the state.

When asked about the area’s palpable infrastructural and industrial deficits, Mr. Akpata assured that Akoko-Edo would be prioritized in his massive industrial plan for the state. Recognizing the area’s comparative advantage in mining and agriculture/agro-allied industries, he highlighted that this focus would help curb the pervasive rural-urban migration, youth unemployment, and crime. “We cannot watch our youth go into crime because of unemployment when we have vast land for agriculture and incredible scenery that can employ them in the tourism sector,” he said.

Addressing the alarming fact that Akoko-Edo is the only LGA without a tertiary institution, Mr. Akpata pledged to establish an ICT University in Akoko-Edo within his first year in office.

To counter the notion that politicians often make empty promises, Mr. Akpata emphasized his commitment to regular town hall meetings and moving the government seat from zone to zone to stay connected with the people. He stated, “I’m not a use-and-dump guy,” highlighting his extensive experience in the private sector and as a leader of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA). “We shall bring the government to the people by moving government operations from zone to zone,” he added.

When asked about funding his programs, Mr. Akpata pointed out that the state receives significant revenue but suffers from poor management. His administration plans to develop innovative strategies for revenue generation and will consider taking loans for specific projects, ensuring that the funds are effectively utilized and reach the grassroots.

Mr. Akpata also underscored the importance of healthcare, promising that every ward would have an equipped and adequately staffed health center within a 10-15 minute walk. Additionally, he plans to make general hospitals functional to handle major health issues locally, reducing the need for travel to Irrua or Benin. He also emphasized the necessity of a government veterinarian for the area to prevent livestock epidemics and public health disasters.

On the shortage of teachers and facilities in primary and secondary schools, Mr. Akpata criticized the current government’s “EDOBEST” initiative, describing it as deceptive. He vowed to ensure that pupils have proper seating, classrooms with good roofs, and permanent teachers.

To address the challenges of insecurity, gang violence, and cultism, Mr. Akpata plans to use sports, massive industrial development, and technical/ICT training to keep youths engaged. He also aims to prioritize rural electrification following the deregulation of the power sector to promote the establishment of industries in rural areas, which has both security and economic benefits.

Mr. Akpata concluded the session by promising to revive the era of development reminiscent of Brig. Gen. Samuel Ogbemudia and Prof. Ambrose Alli in Akoko-Edo.

Sincerely,

Barr. (Mrs.) Mary Opii for: Akoko-Edo Development Association

Hashtags

#ICTUniversity #AkokoEdoDevelopment #OlumideAkpata #LabourPartyCandidate #AkokoEdoForum #EdoStateGovernorship #YouthEmpowerment #HealthcareReform #EducationalReform #InfrastructuralDevelopment #EconomicGrowth #CommunityEngagement #MeetTheCandidates #VoteLabourParty #TransformEdoState

For more information and updates, visit Akoko-Edo Development Association.