Professor Ifeanyi Bernard Odoh, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the 2027 Ebonyi Central Senatorial election, has pledged to provide effective representation if elected, following confirmation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the party’s candidate.
Odoh made the declaration during a town hall meeting in Abakaliki, where he officially announced that INEC had recognized his candidacy for the May 16, 2027 Ebonyi Central Senatorial election.
Addressing supporters, the former Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government described the Nigerian Senate as a platform with vast opportunities for development, arguing that many lawmakers have failed to fully utilize the institution to improve the lives of their constituents.
According to him, his academic and professional experience as a Professor of Geosciences, with expertise in geophysics, solid minerals, water resources, and environmental management, positions him to make significant contributions to national legislation and constituency development.
“The Senate provides enormous opportunities for anyone who understands how to use them effectively. It is time to stop wasting those opportunities,” Odoh said.
He noted that his knowledge would be valuable in Senate committees overseeing education, natural resources, environmental management, solid minerals, healthcare, technology, agriculture, and food security.
“I became a professor at the age of 38, and I believe my professional experience will enable me to contribute meaningfully to legislative debates, policy formulation, and development initiatives that will benefit Ebonyi Central and Nigeria,” he stated.
Odoh assured residents that he would be an outspoken lawmaker committed to pursuing policies that improve healthcare, education, security, agriculture, and the overall welfare of the people.
“If elected, I will not be a silent senator. I will actively champion legislation and initiatives that address the needs of Ebonyi Central and promote sustainable development,” he added.
Reflecting on his public service, Odoh cited his tenure as Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government (2015–2018), saying transparency and accountability remained central to his leadership style.
He recalled voluntarily inviting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate his stewardship after leaving office, describing the move as evidence of his commitment to integrity.
“I served as Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government from May 2015 to April 2018, and to the best of my knowledge, I remain the only public official in Nigeria who voluntarily invited the EFCC to investigate my tenure after leaving office,” he said.
Professor Ifeanyi Bernard Odoh
Odoh also highlighted his efforts to create employment opportunities while serving both in government and at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
According to him, the number of employees from his community at the university increased significantly during his time there, reflecting his commitment to empowering qualified individuals.
Speaking on his departure from the Ebonyi State Government, Odoh said his exit was driven by differences in principles rather than personal conflicts.
“I remain grateful to the former governor for the opportunity to serve, but we parted ways because of our differing principles. I hold no bitterness against anyone and remain focused on serving the people,” he explained.
The NDC senatorial candidate also urged his supporters to vote for the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the 2027 general elections, describing him as a credible leader capable of tackling Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.
Odoh expressed concern over the country’s current economic hardship, rising insecurity, and declining public confidence, particularly among young Nigerians.
He stressed that unity, strategic leadership, and commitment to good governance would be essential in building a better future for the country.
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