By Daniel Abia

A Canada-based Ogoni activist and Executive Director of the Compassionate Heart Foundation of Canada, Sir Joe Korka-Waadah, has expressed support for efforts aimed at increasing the political participation of Ogoni people ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State.

His comments followed recent remarks by Senator Magnus Abe, who reportedly advocated strategic political engagement as a pathway to achieving the long-standing aspiration of producing a governor of Ogoni extraction in the state.

Reacting in a statement, Korka-Waadah said many Ogoni stakeholders are eager to see greater representation in the state’s political leadership and believe the 2027 election presents an opportunity to advance that objective.

He argued that political actors should take advantage of emerging opportunities within the evolving political landscape rather than relying solely on long-term calculations.

Korka-Waadah also expressed support for Dr. Gabriel Pidomson’s political aspirations under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing his emergence as part of broader efforts to expand political choices available to voters.

According to him, a growing number of supporters are attracted to candidates and platforms they believe can address governance, development and infrastructure concerns in Rivers State.

He said many residents are seeking solutions to the state’s political and developmental challenges and are looking to political leaders to present clear policy alternatives.

The activist further noted that political competition and the emergence of new platforms could strengthen democratic participation by giving voters a wider range of options.

Korka-Waadah called on political stakeholders, community leaders and residents to work together in promoting inclusive governance, peaceful political engagement and sustainable development across Rivers State.

He maintained that broader participation by all segments of the state would contribute to a more representative and competitive democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections.