Some leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ika North East Local Government area have during a meeting of the Party Executives, enumerated the importance of continuity at the Federal and State House of Assembly respectively.The enumeration is coming in the heels of the incumbent, Hon. Victor Nwokolo’s declaration of interest to represent Ika Federal Constituency for a third term at the Federal House of Representative.
Speaking at the meeting on Saturday, 30th June 28 at Kezaiah Hotel, Boji-Boji, Owa a party Chieftain, Dr. Festus Okubor, explained that preferences are given to those who have had a longer stay at the House, citing Hon. Leo Ogor the Minority Leader representing Isoko Constituency and other representatives in Urhobo Nation as case studies.
He said gaining an upper hand at the National Assembly is due to the length of stay a representative has. He explained that key positions and attention is given to those regarded as seniors at the Green Chamber, especially those who have served more than two term.
He further explained that Ika Federal Constituency has been cheated time and time again due to the trend of changing representatives, saying that for Ika land to have better representation, incumbent representatives should be retained to enable them have better footings at the house and in turn attract more developments and projects to Ika Land.
Affirming the words of Dr. Okubor, The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Charles Aniagwu stated that he is knowledgeable to the dealings of the House having been there for 6years.
Expatiating further, Mr. Aniagwu stated that occupying a key position at the house gives one an opportunity to serve both Local Governments better. He appealed for the corporation of all Ika people to re-elect Hon. Victor Nwokolo, so he can be a principal officer at the Green Chamber and thereby attract quotas to Ika Nation.
He also noted that those who have served more terms at the house are regarded as “first among equals”.
Declaring his intention, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, said he is rearing to go back for a third term for the betterment of Ika people and for the sake of posterity.
He correlated the words of Dr. Okubor and Mr. Charles Aniagwu, stating that though there maybe shortcomings, he is open to advice from Ika people.
“The good work can only continue when you help me to go back by supporting me. I urge you all to preach the message of continuity and educate others who do not know on the benefits of continuity. We should take it as a responsibility to enlighten the people now, so we can have a smooth sail come 2019”, he stated.
Concluding, the Local Government Chairman of the Party, Chief Godwin Ogadi, without mincing words, said though there may be other qualified candidates for the position from Ika land, as first timers, they will not be able to attract projects or occupy principal positions if elected.
“We are not saying that Victor Nwokolo is the most qualified candidate in Ika Land, we are not looking down on anyone, but we are comfortable with Victor Nwokolo. As the Chairman of the party, I have a right to choice, and I know Ika North East and Ika South are comfortable with him. We have never heard a wrong report about him, we believe in a bird at hand. We know him; we know his capabilities”.
He affirmed that with the support of Ika South people, Hon. Nwokolo will clinch the party ticket saying that he is faithful and diligent to PDP. He therefore appealed for maximum support from party faithful.