By Abiola Olawale
As the race for the Edo Central Senatorial seat intensifies with speed and emerging dynamics, ( the seat was vacated by Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo state following his election as governor of the state), one notable personality that has thrown his hat in the ring and is making unmatched waves is DrJoseph Ikpea, a former Edo State Honourable Commissioner for Minerals, Oil and Gas, a former Chairman of Esan South East Local Government Council, a former special Adviser to the Governor of Edo State and a private sector player in the oil and gas sector, amongst others.
Joe Ikpea recently unveiled a vision of positive transformation of Edo Central Senatorial zone.
Dr Joe Ikpea, who is from the popular and respected Ikpea family of Ewatto, in Esan nation, unfolded his vision to lead a transformative initiative aimed at not only fostering economic empowerment, overall development, skills Development in the Senatorial zone but also a goal that is committed to making very positive impact in the socio-economic and educational transformation of Edo Central.
He emphasized that with the mandate of the people of Edo Central, he plans to build his focus also on skills development, creating massive job opportunities and entrepreneurial opportunities for all to enhance their capabilities and contribute meaningfully to of Edo Central economy while galvanizing the people to advance their various positive goals in a competitive global world.
Recognizing the pressing need for employment opportunities and self-reliance, Ikpea maintained that skills acquisition is quite key to transforming the zone’s economic landscape.
According to him, the “vision goes beyond just creating jobs; it’s about equipping the people of Edo Central with the tools to build a sustainable future and thrive in a competitive global economy.”
Also, Ikpea declared that another essential element of his vision is to promote entrepreneurship. He further stated that he would create a thriving ecosystem of small businesses in Edo Central by equipping individuals with skills and offering them support in the form of funding, mentorship, and business development services.
In the words: “Empowering the people with skills is empowering the future of our region.”
The New Diplomat reports that Ikpea’s reputation has been gaining traction, and the impact of his leadership and expertise is becoming 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.
Several individuals have started to tell commendable stories and narratives about how Dr Joseph Ikpea, who once served as the Esan South East Local Government Council chairman from 2013 to 2016, left indelible marks behind.
A serving civil servant in the Council who didn’t want his name in print stated that Ikpea is still respected, and appreciated to date because of his ability to ensure not just the prompt payment of salaries of local government workers during a period when FAAC allocations in Nigeria were low due to a significant decrease in oil revenues from the Federation Account but was able to leverage his vast leadership skills to impact positively on the living conditions in many communities that make up the LGA.
Speaking with the New Diplomat, another resident of Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State also said the name of Joe Ikpea is still on the lips of every resident of the area on account of his good deeds and accomplishments during his service years as Council chairman.
According to him, the positive influence of Joe Ikpea on the local government area continues to resonate with many rural communities even now that he has left office.
Furthermore, he emphasized that Joe Ikpea has become a symbol of hope for the residents of Edo Central, who firmly believe that his leadership will usher in transformative changes for their region.
The New Diplomat reports that as a prominent aspirant in the 2025 Edo Central Senatorial race, many believe that given his track record of performance, it is natural and expected that the people will line up behind him.
Many say that Ikpea’s commitment to the good of Edo Central senatorial zone and Edo state, in general, is a huge testament to his extraordinary vision and resolute commitment to the overall development of Edo Central and Edo state.
His political journey has a rich intersection of community service, public spiritedness, and exceptional accomplishments that marvel all, including his political rivals and peers. Indeed, Dr. Joe Ikpea’s profound and genuine connection with the community illustrates the delicate art of active community engagement, honesty, integrity, and service.
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.
