Many political actors, children (supporters) of political actors, activists, artisans, farmers, students, clergymen, women, leaders of faith-based institutions and many others within and outside Akoko-Edo LGA have become increasingly concerned about whether or not Rt. Hon. Peter Akpatason, the Deputy Majority Leader, House of Representatives will seek for another term in office especially now that fresh emerging facts tend to indicate.
Akoko-Edo is the oldest and perhaps the biggest in Nigeria but, is one of the most politically sidelined and neglected local governments. But with the emergence of Com. Peter. Akpatason into Akoko-Edo politics, the narrative and trajectory have adjusted positively.
Again,Akoko-Edo people will take one hard political decision in 2022 and 2023 which will define the political destiny and direction of its citizens. The decision to determine who occupies the House of Representatives office will be taken.
The reality is that Akpatason’s performance speaks volume. Even, some believe tenaciously that his political liberality, humility, coupled with his uncommon determination and legislative experience to transform the entire Akoko-Edo through various empowerment schemes, roads construction, building of new classrooms and renovation of dilapidated structures in primary and secondary schools, sinking of boreholes in several communities, respect for constituted traditional institutions etc are enough to earn him another term in office.
Again, Akoko-Edo is not like some other local governments, as we have a good example in Ogori- Mangogo local government with just two communities. Ours is larger with over 40 communities. Only Ibillo or Igarra is bigger than the two communities put together. Therefore, Akoko-Edo deserves the best of robust legislative representation so as to enjoy the dividend of democracy. Com. Peter Akpatason is symbolic of this characteristics. It is a truism that cannot be contested in any social laboratory and this approximates to social reality.
Furthermore, all legislators are elected by the people but they do not exercise equal power. Some are primus interparis. As such, they can influence projects to their constituencies or senatorial districts The truth is that the principal officers exercise a preponderant influence in terms of public policy formulation and implementation in favour of their constituents.
Consequently, Akoko-Edo need to urgently abadon their political affiliations to support Com. Peter Akpatason for another term. Certainly, he will be among the leadership in the Green Chamber ,probably, as the number one or two which will automatically and ultimately translate to jobs for the unemployed graduates and the enhancement of infrastructural development.
Political prebendalism, friendship and personal interest should be absolutely discouraged. The interest of Akoko- Edo should supercede primordial and selfish interest.Ethnic politics has to be thrown into the political dustbin for the overall political, economic and social development of the people.This is necessary so as to give credence to Com.Peter Akpatason’s desire to contest for another term in office . This will provide the needed leadership for Akoko-Edo’s productivity.
While I welcome divergent opinions, let me add that anyone who believes in and genuinely loves Akoko-Edo should quickly begin the processes for the mobilisation of our people within and in the diaspora to support Com. Akpatason’s fourth term bid.
Alabi Timothy, a Political Economist, writes in from Lampese, Ward 3.
