By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA: An aspirant for the House of Representatives under the Nigeria Democraticrespected NDC, Mr. Emokiniovo Otarigho, has declared his intention to represent the Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency of Delta State, vowing to end what he described as years of poor representation and the persistent disconnect between elected officials and their constituents.

Otarigho made the declaration in an interview with newsmen after picking his Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms at the party’s Abuja office.

He said his decision to enter the race was driven by long-standing frustration with public officeholders who had failed to adequately serve the interests of the electorate.

“I decided to run because for a long time our people have been misrepresented. Democracy is supposed to be government of the people, by the people and for the people, but there is a disconnect between those elected and the people they represent,” he said.

The aspirant, who highlighted a background spanning over two decades in civil society and community development, dismissed arguments that young people lacked the experience needed for leadership, pointing instead to a generation of older politicians with years of political experience who had delivered little meaningful development to their communities.

“For over 20 years, I have been active in the civic space, building communities, empowering young people and influencing policies without expecting rewards. Now is the time for young people to step forward and take responsibility,” he said.

Otarigho explained that his alignment with the NDC was rooted in the party’s emphasis on service delivery and people-oriented leadership, adding that its ideology matched his long-standing commitment to volunteerism and community service. He used the occasion to urge Nigerian youths to move beyond the rhetoric of the “Not Too Young To Run” advocacy and translate it into concrete political participation.

On his plans for the constituency, he said accessibility and accountability would define his approach to representation, drawing a sharp distinction between his vision and what he characterised as the culture of electoral-cycle politicians.

“The difference I will bring is that I will bridge the disconnect between the elected and the electorate. People should not only see their representatives during elections,” he stated.

Addressing the pervasive influence of money in Nigerian politics, Otarigho said his campaign would be built on ideas and value rather than financial inducement.

“We are offering an alternative to money politics. Where others spend money to influence people, we are offering value and ideas that align with the aspirations of the people,” he said.

The aspirant also pledged not to function as a rubber-stamp lawmaker if elected, stressing the importance of the legislature in maintaining checks and balances in governance. He expressed confidence in his chances, citing his years of grassroots engagement, and said occupying a legislative seat would give him the platform to attract development projects and drive policy changes his constituency had long been denied.

On the possibility of a consensus arrangement within the party, Otarigho said it would ultimately be a collective decision among aspirants and stakeholders, adding that any outcome reached through proper consultations must be respected.