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Prof. Ode Egbe Emmanuel, proprietor of Edexcel University, has positioned himself as a leading aspirant for the Oju/Obi federal constituency seat in the House of Representatives, lamenting what he described as the misuse of the opportunity previously given to the Igede people.
Speaking during a critical stakeholders’ meeting of ADC politicians from Oju Local Government Area, held at the Makurdi residence of former lawmaker Egbiri Idaah on Sunday, Prof. Ode argued that despite divine favour in allocating the slot to Igede, poor representation had stalled meaningful development in the constituency.
He presented himself as a credible alternative, urging the people to support his ambition for improved representation, accountability, and tangible impact in 2027. The professor emphasized that zoning conventions favour his aspiration, insisting it is now the turn of Uvokwu in Zone C to produce the next representative.
Several prominent stakeholders endorsed his candidacy, citing his strong academic pedigree and leadership capacity. Among those who threw their weight behind him were Okpe Onah, Daniel Ogbobode, Ire Owuru, Simeon Ajegi, and Evelyn Okwu.
A roll call of attendees and community figures at the meeting included Markben Shulder, Mercy Ike (Sughut), Comrade Ajah Sunday (Bulus), Hon. Samuel, Ona Jonah Oko, Obam Emmanuel, Surv. Jonas U. Eje, Simeon Ajegi, Engr. Oche Enah, Chief Ogwu, Efe Peters Adununu, Akira Obasi Christopher, Ugele Simeone Obor, Ajega Terry Ogbu, Inyamu Ogah I. John, Omenka Edwin, Obongaga Obongaga, Kelly Tims, Ogidi C. Acham, Agabaga Kingsley Ode, and media personality James Ibechi of ibechi.com, among others.
Participants noted that among other aspirants such as Obo Egbobodo, Bright Ogaji, Lewis Obeka, and Blessed Onah Emmanuel, Prof. Ode stands out as the only professor—a factor they believe could significantly influence voter preference in the 2027 general elections.
With more aspirants declaring interest, including Douglas Achala within the ADC, the race for the Oju/Obi House of Representatives seat is already shaping up into a keenly contested battle ahead of party primaries. The meeting underscored growing momentum around zoning arrangements and the desire for quality representation that can deliver visible development to the constituency.
