Michael Idoko, media aide to the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Tuesday formally declared his intention to contest for a seat in the Kogi State House of Assembly.
Idoko is seeking to represent Olamaboro Constituency on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.
In a statement issued after consultations with party leaders, community stakeholders, youths and residents in Olamaboro Local Government Area, the aspirant said his decision was driven by concern over what he described as the lack of meaningful dividends of democracy in the area.
He noted that several communities in the council area still grapple with inadequate infrastructure, limited opportunities for youth developmentu and insufficient social amenities needed to improve the lives of residents.
“My decision to contest for the Olamaboro State House of Assembly seat is borne out of a deep concern over the lack of meaningful dividends of democracy in our local government,” Idoko said.
“For too long, many communities in Olamaboro have continued to struggle with inadequate infrastructure, limited opportunities for youth development and insufficient social amenities that should ordinarily improve the lives of our people.”
He stressed that leadership must go beyond political rhetoric and focus on service, accessibility and meaningful representation.
“Leadership should be about service, representation and ensuring that the voices and needs of the people are heard and addressed. Unfortunately, many residents still feel disconnected from the benefits of governance that democracy promises,” he added.
Idoko said his ambition was not driven merely by politics but by a desire to bridge the gap between government policies and the realities faced by ordinary citizens.
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“My aspiration is therefore driven by the desire to bridge this gap. I am committed to advocating policies, projects and programmes that will bring tangible development to Olamaboro, empower our youths and women, and ensure that our communities receive their fair share of government attention,” he said.
A longstanding member of the PDP, Idoko said he has remained committed to strengthening the party’s structure and promoting democratic participation at the grassroots.
He added that during his consultations across wards in the local government, he engaged with youths, women, elders and traditional leaders to gain deeper insight into the pressing needs of the people.
Idoko also emphasised that effective legislation must reflect the daily realities of citizens, noting that elected representatives must maintain consistent engagement with their constituents.
“I believe that legislation should directly reflect the realities of the people and that elected representatives must remain connected to their constituents beyond election seasons,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to party leaders, traditional institutions and residents who received him warmly durinrg the consultations, noting that their encouragemetnt had strengthened his resolve to pursue the ambition.
Under the PDP platform, Idoko said his focus would be on promoting inclusive governance, strengthening democratic values and attracting development projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of residents in Olamaboro.