By Fatima Saka
Abuja — Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District, has reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as “visionary and missionary,” while pledging to focus his legislative priorities on tackling unemployment, addressing erosion challenges, and promoting economic growth through seaport development.
In an interactive session with journalists at the National Assembly, Senator Ikpea said he was still learning the processes of the Senate but remained committed to contributing meaningfully to national development.
“I will tell you that I’ve not fully settled down because the Senate has its own procedure and processes to learn. It’s not just about standing up to talk, but about understanding the rules and guidelines that govern our discussions,” he said.
The senator stressed that President Tinubu deserves full support from Nigerians, saying the administration inherited a difficult economy but has shown determination to rebuild national infrastructure and restore stability.
“Anybody blaming Mr. President is making a mistake because he has set an example for all of us. The President is doing everything possible to move this country forward. Things are already changing, and we can see the light,” Ikpea stated.
On his constituency focus, Ikpea highlighted plans to ensure that Edo Central benefits equitably from federal projects and proposed the development of additional seaports across the country to decongest Lagos ports and boost job creation.
“I want to see that seaports are supported accordingly to decongest Lagos. That will create jobs and reduce crimes such as kidnapping because people engage in crime out of joblessness. If we strengthen our economic system and digitalize business ideas, insecurity will naturally decline,” he explained.
The senator also identified gully erosion and boundary challenges as major issues confronting his constituency, noting that he will work with relevant ministries and agencies to address them.
“We have serious erosion problems across Edo Central. My first task is to draw government attention to these areas to ensure lasting solutions,” he said.
Ikpea commended the Edo State Governor for his performance in infrastructure development and pledged to complement the state government’s efforts through federal support.
“The governor is a performing governor. My goal is to augment his efforts so that developmental projects reach all parts of my senatorial district,” he added.
On the debate over possible defection trends toward a dominant political party, the lawmaker dismissed fears of a one-party system, emphasizing that political alignment is a matter of choice.
“We have freedom of speech and movement. Nobody is forced to join any party. If people are defecting, it’s because they believe in what the President is doing. And anyone who wants can even contest under a zero party — the constitution allows it,” Ikpea said.
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Senator Ikpea assured his constituents that he would remain focused on initiatives that promote unity, reduce tribalism, and strengthen Nigeria’s socio-economic stability.
“We must remove ethnicity and greed from our politics. Once we see ourselves as one Nigeria, this country will move forward,” he added.
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