The Akoko Edo Forum (AEF) on Thursday 31st August, 2023 hosted a meeting to bring together the candidates for the upcoming Akoko Edo Local Government Area chairmanship poll. Present at the meeting were Barr. Tajudeen Alade of the People Democratic Party (PDP), and Comrade Onaivi Michael Matthew of the Labour Party (LP). Mr. Robert Akande of the All Progressive Congress (APC) was absent.
While the meeting was slated to start at 6 PM, Barr. Tajudeen arrived 27 minutes late due to poor network connection hindering his initial introduction. Comrade Onaivi, the LP candidate, who came in few minutes after took the opportunity to introduce himself first. He emphasized his desire to bring true representation to the people of Akoko Edo LGA, emphasizing the need for political leaders to serve the interests of the community. Comrade Onaivi highlighted his plans to attract foreign investment for the development of the area and the formation of a committee to address community-specific challenges.
When asked about his approach to tackling insecurity, Comrade Onaivi stressed the importance of developing a strong security network and fixing the roads to maintain order. He also highlighted the need to engage the youth and provide adequate training for security personnel. On revenue generation, he outlined his intention to elevate markets such as Igarra, Ibillo, and Ososo to improve internal revenue.
Barr. Tajudeen, the PDP candidate, then shared his introduction. Hailing from Igarra, he presented his background as a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and practicing lawyer. He expressed his commitment to delivering quality service to the people and pinpointed agriculture as a key focus area for revenue generation. Barr. Tajudeen also emphasized his dedication to strengthening the security network and safeguarding lives and property.
The candidates were further questioned about their previous contributions to the local government area. Barr. Tajudeen cited various instances where he supported security personnel and lobbied for boreholes and school renovations. Comrade Onaivi, on the other hand, mentioned his efforts as a pastor and teacher, organizing outreach programs to sensitize the youth and offering free teaching services in multiple schools within the local government area.
During the meeting, Prince Dele Obaitan, the immediate past commissioner for diaspora affairs, culture, and tourism, asked the candidates how they planned to empower the youths using the broadband fiber optics available in Igarra. Barr Tajudeen highlighted his recent influence in appointing over 50 teachers and expressed his commitment to discouraging drug abuse and fraud while promoting skill acquisition programs for the youth.
Addressing infrastructure concerns and upholding ICT for the benefit of the youth, Mr. Kole Jagun posed questions to the candidates, particularly regarding the revival of local government tractors and the development of infrastructure. Barr. Tajudeen assured his seriousness in managing infrastructure and pledged to work closely with the state government to address road conditions. He also mentioned reaching out to capable individuals within the local areas for assistance. Comrade Onaivi stressed his intention to utilize the local government’s funds to improve road infrastructure and prioritize basic education by ensuring an adequate number of teachers in local schools.
The meeting facilitated an insightful session where the candidates laid out their visions, plans, and commitment to serving the people of Akoko Edo.
– By Jayms Smart
