Otarigho assures inclusive representation for Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu constituency

An aspirant for the House of Representatives under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Emokiniovo Otarigho, has pledged to deliver people-oriented representation for the Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu Federal Constituency of Delta State if elected in 2027.

Otarigho said his mission was to reconnect elected officials with the people and ensure that governance reflects the true aspirations of constituents.

The aspirant spoke on Monday in Abuja after obtaining his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms at the party’s national secretariat.

He explained that his decision to join the race was informed by what he described as years of poor representation and lack of engagement between political office holders and the people they were elected to serve.

“I decided to run because for a long time our people have been misrepresented.
“Democracy is supposed to be government of the people, by the people and for the people, but there is a disconnect between those elected and the people they represent,” he said.

Otarigho stated that his choice of the NDC was based on the party’s commitment to service delivery and grassroots-focused leadership.

Highlighting his experience in community development and civic engagement, he rejected the notion that young people lacked the competence required for public office.

According to him, many politicians with decades of experience in government have failed to bring meaningful growth and development to their communities.

“For over 20 years, I have been active in the civic space, building communities, empowering young people and influencing policies without expecting rewards.

“Now is the time for young people to step forward and take responsibility,” he said.

The aspirant also encouraged Nigerian youths to actively participate in the political process by contesting elective positions and contributing to national development.

He said the “Not Too Young To Run” campaign should go beyond advocacy and translate into practical political involvement by young Nigerians.

Speaking on his agenda for the constituency, Otarigho promised to promote accountability, accessibility and regular engagement with constituents.

“The difference I will bring is that I will bridge the disconnect between the elected and the electorate.

”People should not only see their representatives during elections,” he stated.

He expressed confidence in his chances at the polls, citing his longstanding grassroots involvement and years of community service.

According to him, securing a seat in the National Assembly would create opportunities to influence policies and attract developmental projects to the constituency.

“My constituency has not seen the level of development it deserves. With people like us in office, we can influence policies that will grow our communities and improve the lives of our people,” he said.

On his decision to contest on the platform of the NDC rather than other youth-focused political movements, Otarigho said the party’s ideology aligned with his personal values of volunteerism and service.

Addressing concerns over the growing influence of money in Nigerian politics, the aspirant said his campaign would focus on ideas, credibility and value-driven leadership instead of financial inducement.

“We are offering an alternative to money politics. Where others spend money to influence people, we are offering value and ideas that align with the aspirations of the people,” he said.

Otarigho also stressed the importance of the legislature in maintaining checks and balances in governance, promising that he would not function as a “rubber stamp” lawmaker if elected.

On reports of possible infiltration within the NDC, he expressed confidence in the party leadership, saying any internal challenges would be addressed appropriately.

He further noted that if the party eventually adopts a consensus arrangement for its candidates, such a decision should emerge through consultation and mutual agreement among aspirants and party stakeholders.

“If the party adopts a consensus arrangement after consultations among aspirants, then it must be respected,” he added.