Nkechinyere Ewa, Abakaliki
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the 2027 Ebonyi Central Senatorial election, Professor Ifeanyi Bernard Odoh, has pledged to provide active and issue-driven representation if elected, promising not to be a “silent senator” in the National Assembly.
Speaking at a town hall meeting in Abakaliki where he announced his recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the NDC candidate for the May 16, 2027 senatorial election, Odoh said he would champion legislation and policies that would improve the lives of Nigerians.
He also urged voters in Ebonyi Central and across the country to support the party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, describing him as the right leader to tackle Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.
“I will not be a silent senator. I will vigorously pursue policies that improve healthcare, education, security, agriculture and the overall welfare of the people of Ebonyi Central and Ebonyi State,” he said.
The former Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government said the Senate should serve as a platform for attracting development and shaping policies that directly benefit the people, noting that his background as a professor of geosciences would equip him to make valuable contributions in areas such as education, solid minerals, water resources, environmental management, technology and food security.
Odoh said his professional experience and national exposure would enable him to effectively represent the district and influence legislative debates on issues of public interest.
He also highlighted his record in public service, saying he voluntarily invited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate his stewardship after leaving office as SSG in 2018, a move he said demonstrated his commitment to transparency and accountability.
The senatorial hopeful further claimed to have facilitated employment opportunities for qualified persons during his time in public service, citing his years at Nnamdi Azikiwe University where, according to him, the number of employees from his area rose significantly before he joined the Ebonyi State Government.
Speaking on his departure from the state government, Odoh said he bore no grudges against anyone, insisting that he left office because of differences in principles.
“I remain grateful to the former governor who appointed me, but we parted ways because of differences in principles. I harbour no bitterness against anyone. I simply speak my mind and remain committed to my convictions,” he said.
Expressing concern over the nation’s economic situation, Odoh said many Nigerians, especially young people, had lost faith in the country’s future due to hardship, insecurity and weak institutions.
He, however, expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its challenges through responsible leadership, justice, fairness and the rule of law, urging supporters to mobilise for the NDC in the 2027 general elections.