By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – FEW hours after his resignation as the Chairman, Edo State Inland Revenue Services (EIRS), Otunba Oladele Bankole-Balogun has declared to contest the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Akoko-Edo Federal Constituency.

In a statement of declaration, Bankole-Balogun said his decision to contrast was after consultations with leaders, elders, party members, and stakeholders across the constituency,

He said he demonstrated his capacity of what he could do when as the chairman of EIRS within one year strengthened the revenue architecture of the state that led to achieving collections exceeding ₦100 billion, “while implementing important digital reforms, institutional strengthening, and staff capacity development initiatives that have positioned the Service for sustained growth.”

He said “Prior to this role, I had the privilege of serving our country as a Federal Commissioner in the Public Complaints Commission, an office dedicated to protecting citizens against administrative injustice and promoting fairness and accountability in governance.

“Together with my professional training and practice as an Attorney-at-Law, these experiences have prepared me for the responsibility of legislative service and strengthened my resolve to contribute meaningfully to national development while advancing the interests of Akoko-Edo.”

He said his aspiration to represent Akoko-Edo in the House of Representatives has been nurtured over many years and is driven by a conviction that Akoko-Edo deserved “strong, credible, and effective representation at the federal level.

“Our constituency is rich in talent, enterprise, and potential. However, we must strengthen our presence at the national level to ensure that Akoko-Edo benefits fully from federal opportunities in areas such as: Infrastructure and road development, Youth empowerment and job creation, Agricultural development and rural investment, Education and healthcare infrastructure, Strategic federal projects and social intervention programmes

“I therefore offer myself for service with humility, experience, and a deep commitment to the progress and unity of our people.

“My vision is to work tirelessly to strengthen the voice of Akoko-Edo in the National Assembly, attract meaningful development to our communities, and ensure that our people receive the representation and opportunities they deserve.”