…submits PDP nomination forms

By Emem Idio, Yenagoa

A 43-year-old entrepreneur, Mr. Richard Akinaka, has joined the race for the Bayelsa Central Senatorial elections under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, with the submission of his Expression of Interest and Nominations forms at the State party secretariat in Yenagoa, weekend.

Speaking while submitting his Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms at the PDP headquarters in Yenagoa on Saturday, Akinaka said his decision to contest the elections followed an earlier declaration of interest made at a party gathering on Tuesday, adding that he is positioning himself as a candidate to address what he described as “a persistent leadership deficit affecting grassroots communities”in the oil and gas rich state.

Addressing party faithful and supporters, Akinaka said his candidacy was a response to the socio-economic challenges facing rural dwellers in the senatorial district, and equally dismissed age as a limiting factor in governance, asserting that competence and accountability should be the primary criteria for leadership.

His words;“As one who has experienced the life of our people living in rural communities, I see myself as an embodiment of the collective aspirations of our people. That is why I have thrown my hat into the ring to address the leadership gap and make life better for our people.

“I want the best for my constituency. Having experienced life in the same conditions many of our people face, I see it as a responsibility to improve livelihoods at the grassroots. That is why I am seeking this platform—to advance that purpose.

“I am 43 years old, and I have the capacity to run for this position. Age is not an indication of performance; it is just a number. The real question is whether the individual is responsible enough to undertake the task. If that is the benchmark, then I am well qualified to represent Bayelsa Central in the Senate.”

In his remark, the state PDP Chairman, George Turnah, assured him of fairness, transparency and a level playing field throughout the primaries process.”The party is proud of you and it is my hope and prayers that you go through the entire process successfully. I assure you of fair and transparency in the primaries and wish you well,” he added.