By Abiola Olawale
Ikpea Advocacy Movement, a prominent socio-political organization in Edo Central, has officially declared its support for Dr Joseph Ikpea, a former Honourable Commissioner for Minerals, Oil, and Gas in Edo State, and a former Chairman of Esan South East Local Government Council in the same State, in the upcoming Edo Central Senatorial by-election.
The endorsement was announced in a press statement issued on Wednesday and made available to the New Diplomat.
The group asserted that Ikpea is the best man to fill the Edo Central senatorial seat vacated by Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, after winning the 2024 gubernatorial election.
According to the Group, Ikpea’s tenure as a local government chairman and commissioner, including his contributions to infrastructure, healthcare, and education in Esan land, readily make him the best man for the job.
The group highlighted Ikpea’s philanthropy and accessibility, noting his role in building schools, primary health centres, and roads during his time as Chairman of Esan Southeast Local Government.
The statement reads in part: “After carefully evaluating his antecedents, we are convinced that Hon. Dr. Joseph Ikpea is the leader Edo Central needs at this critical time. He is a man of intelligence, courage, and vision—qualities that make him the ideal candidate to lead Edo Central as a senator.
“Edo Central is in dire need of an egalitarian, dynamic, and visionary leader like Hon. Dr. Joseph Ikpea, who has the political will, experience, and track record to bring meaningful development to the senatorial district. His collaborative approach with the Edo State government ensures that much-needed progress will be achieved for the benefit of all.
“We, therefore, call on the people of Edo Central to rise alongside the All Progressives Congress (APC) and embrace this opportunity to elect a capable and forward-thinking leader. Hon. Dr. Joseph Ikpea is the solution to the challenges facing our senatorial district.
“Dr. Ikpea has consistently demonstrated his ability to manage Edo Central’s diversity, fostering unity and inclusivity. He is widely recognized for his dedication to youth development, women empowerment, and education reform. As Chairman of Esan South East Local Government Council, he earned a reputation for generosity and fairness, particularly toward minority groups within the local government area.
“Considering the current state of our senatorial district, we call on APC delegates, distinguished leaders, and esteemed elders to make the right decision by nominating Hon. Dr. Joseph Ikpea as the APC candidate for the Edo Central senatorial seat.”
The New Diplomat reports that this is the latest endorsement Ikpea’s candidacy has received since announcing his intention to run for the Edo Central senatorial seat.
Several individuals and groups have rallied behind Ikpea in his senatorial ambitions. His candidacy has been generating considerable interest and support from various stakeholders across the Senatorial District.
Ikpea’s reputation has also gained much traction, and the impact of his leadership and expertise has become more pronounced, with numerous individuals stepping forward, sharing compelling and heartfelt testimonies that highlight the profound impact he has had as a visionary politician and dedicated community leader.
His political journey has a rich intersection of community service, public spiritedness, and exceptional accomplishments that marvel all, including his political rivals and peers.
Dr Joseph Ikpea’s political journey is not only rich, fitting, and exciting but one that has also enabled him to touch countless lives in Edo Central, engage in awesome community development and transformation, as well as construct lasting positive legacies. He was one-time Chairman of the Edo State Library Board during the administration of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion.
He was also a member of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) under the administration of former Edo Governor Adams Oshiomhole. He was also a one-time Esan South East Local Government council chairman. He also served as a Commissioner for Minerals, Oil, and Gas during the first tenure of Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State.
