Former Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government (SSG), Professor Ifeanyi Bernard Odoh, has pledged to provide active, people-centred representation in the National Assembly if elected senator for Ebonyi Central in the 2027 general elections, declaring that he would not be a "silent senator."
Odoh, who is the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Ebonyi Central Senatorial District, made the pledge during a town hall meeting in Abakaliki where he announced his recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the party's candidate for the May 16, 2027 senatorial election.
The former SSG also threw his weight behind the party's presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, urging Nigerians to support his bid to lead the country, which he described as the best option for addressing Nigeria's economic and security challenges.
Addressing party supporters and stakeholders, Odoh said his mission in the Senate would be to champion legislation and policies capable of improving the quality of life of Nigerians, particularly the people of Ebonyi Central Senatorial District.
"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.
He maintained that representation in the Senate should go beyond occupying a seat, stressing that lawmakers must actively influence national policies while attracting development projects to their constituencies.
According to him, his academic background as a Professor of Geosciences, coupled with his experience in public administration, has adequately prepared him to contribute meaningfully to legislative debates and policy formulation in critical sectors of the economy.
Odoh identified education, solid minerals development, water resources, environmental management, science and technology, agriculture and food security as areas where he intends to make significant legislative interventions if elected.
He noted that Ebonyi State and Nigeria stand to benefit more when lawmakers deploy their professional knowledge and experience in advancing national development.
Speaking on his public service record, the former SSG described transparency and accountability as essential qualities of leadership, recalling that after leaving office in 2018, he voluntarily invited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate his stewardship.
According to him, the decision was borne out of his desire to demonstrate integrity and openness in public office.
Odoh further highlighted what he described as his contributions to human capital development during his years in public service, saying he facilitated employment opportunities for qualified persons while serving at Nnamdi Azikiwe University before joining the Ebonyi State Government.
He said many indigenes from his area secured employment during that period, adding that creating opportunities for young people would remain one of his priorities.
The senatorial hopeful also spoke on his departure from the Ebonyi State Government, saying he left office because of differences in principles rather than personal conflicts.
"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 stated.
Odoh expressed concern over what he described as the worsening economic hardship, rising insecurity and declining public confidence in Nigeria, particularly among young people who, according to him, are increasingly losing faith in the country's future.
Despite the challenges, he expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its current difficulties through responsible leadership, justice, fairness and strict adherence to the rule of law.
He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and actively participate in the democratic process, insisting that good governance could only emerge through the election of credible leaders.
The former SSG also called on residents of Ebonyi Central Senatorial District and supporters of the National Democratic Congress to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He expressed confidence that the NDC would provide the leadership needed to reposition the country and improve the living conditions of Nigerians.
Odoh specifically appealed to voters to support the presidential ambition of Peter Obi, whom he described as a leader with the vision and competence to restore economic stability, strengthen institutions and tackle the nation's security challenges.
He reaffirmed his commitment to providing responsive and effective representation if elected, promising to remain accessible to constituents and ensure that their interests are adequately represented at the National Assembly.
