By Brenda Izu

As preparations intensify for the 2026 local government elections in Edo State, a former State Coordinator of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Group, Honourable Erhunmwunse Festus, popularly known as Ajimy, has formally declared his intention to contest for the chairmanship of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.

Erhunmwunse made the declaration during an executive meeting at the APC Secretariat in Ikpoba Okha Ward One, where he told party members that his decision was driven by a sincere desire to serve the people and bring governance closer to the grassroots.

“I stand before you today as your son, your brother and your neighbour. I am not new to this land. I live here, I walk these streets, I visit our markets, and I feel the daily struggles of our people,” he said.

According to him, his decision followed wide consultations with stakeholders across the local government.

“After wide consultations, I have decided to formally declare my intention to contest for the position of Chairman of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area under the platform of the APC. This decision is not driven by ambition, it is driven by a genuine desire to serve,” Erhunmwunse stated.

He pledged to run a people-oriented administration anchored on youth empowerment, women inclusion, improved infrastructure, accessible healthcare and enhanced security.

“Our elders deserve respect and inclusion in decision-making. Our youths deserve opportunities, skills and hope. Our women deserve support and recognition. Our traders deserve an enabling environment, and our communities deserve good roads, functional schools, accessible healthcare and improved security,” he said.

Erhunmwunse further promised accessible and accountable leadership if elected.

“Governance must not be done from a distance. A chairman must be present, accessible and accountable. I am ready to listen, consult widely and work tirelessly for the progress of Ikpoba Okha,” he added.

The Chairman of APC Ward One, Eje Sylvester Ehis, expressed strong support for his ambition, describing him as a credible grassroots politician.

“Honourable Erhunmwunse Festus is a man of integrity who understands the needs of our people. He is our son and brother and has been consistent, loyal to the party and committed to community development. We believe he has the capacity to lead Ikpoba Okha,” Ehis said.

Other party members who spoke at the meeting also endorsed his aspiration, noting his accessibility and long-standing relationship with residents.

“He is always among the people. He attends community activities, listens to concerns and supports youths. That kind of closeness is what grassroots leadership requires,” one party executive said.

Another member added, “Ajimy has shown over the years that he values people and party structure. We are confident he will represent the interest of Ikpoba Okha well if given the opportunity.”

Erhunmwunse  called  on party leaders, stakeholders and residents to support his vision of inclusive and accountable governance.

“This journey is not about one man; it is about all of us. With unity, cooperation and shared responsibility, Ikpoba Okha will move forward,” he said.

Written by Brenda Izu