Prince Edwin Ochai, President of the Idoma Association USA, has urged the people of Benue South to carefully scrutinise political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections and demand accountability beyond political parties, friendships, family ties and financial inducements.
The call was contained in a message to the Idoma people as the commencement of political campaigns approaches, with Ochai urging voters to prepare for the election season with a renewed commitment to asking critical questions before deciding who deserves their votes.
He noted that politicians and political contestants would soon begin presenting speeches, promises, slogans and assurances to the electorate, stressing that the people must not be carried away by what he described as “empty promises.”
According to him, candidates who have previously occupied public office must be judged primarily by their scorecards and tangible achievements.
He urged voters to ask what promises such politicians made before assuming office, how many they fulfilled, and the impact of their tenure on security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, employment, economic development and the general wellbeing of the people.
“For those asking us to return them to office, we must ask: What exactly are they bringing to the table that is different from what we have already seen? Why should the people give them another mandate?” Ochai stated.
Similarly, he challenged first-time contestants to clearly articulate their vision, plans and practical solutions for addressing the challenges confronting Benue South.
Ochai stressed that the people do not need another round of attractive political speeches without practical solutions, but leaders with a clear understanding of the problems facing the people and realistic, measurable plans to address them.
He further called on voters to examine the character, integrity, credibility, competence, capacity and track record of every candidate seeking their votes, irrespective of political affiliation or personal relationships.
The Idoma Association USA president also cautioned against allowing temporary election inducements to determine voting decisions, noting that money, food, gifts and other short-term benefits cannot compensate for years of poor leadership.
“Our vote is our voice, our power, and our future. It is too valuable to be exchanged for temporary gratification that may last only a few days while the consequences of our choices remain with us for years,” he stated.
Ochai therefore called on candidates to clearly explain what they have achieved, what they intend to do, how they plan to achieve it, the timeline for implementation and the mechanisms through which they will be held accountable.
He concluded by urging the people of Benue South to open their eyes and ears, ask questions and scrutinise every candidate before casting their votes.
He stressed that the 2027 election should not merely be about changing political names, faces or parties, but about making choices capable of changing the story and future of the people of Benue South.
“The future of Benue South is in our hands. Our decisions today will determine the opportunities available to our children tomorrow,” Ochai stated.
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