A House of Assembly aspirant for Ngor Okpala State Constituency under the Action Peoples Party (APP), Cajetan Duke, has said the people of the area deserve more than routine representation, insisting they need a strong and effective voice capable of advancing their collective interests at the highest levels of state governance.
Speaking to journalists in Owerri, Duke said his ambition is driven by the need to restore visibility, relevance, and purposeful advocacy for the constituency. He argued that legislative office should go beyond occupying a seat, stressing that it must focus on defending the welfare, dignity, and future of the people.
He noted that despite Ngor Okpala’s vast human and economic potential, the area continues to suffer from poor infrastructure, limited economic opportunities, and inadequate government attention in key sectors affecting residents’ wellbeing. According to him, the persistent underdevelopment reflects more on weak representation than outright neglect.
The former State Publicity Secretary of the APP maintained: “Ngor Okpala deserves a voice, not mere representation.” He said his mission is to amplify the concerns and developmental needs of the constituency through strategic engagement, sustained advocacy, and people-centred legislation, adding that passive representation must give way to responsive leadership built on competence and accountability.
Duke also argued that legislative effectiveness requires experience, clarity, and communication skill. “At this point in our history, Ngor Okpala does not need a lawmaker who will spend two years learning how to speak and understand legislative language. It is time to send someone who knows what to say, when to say it, and how to say it. Legislative work is not for all comers,” he said.
He further stated that his agenda would extend beyond lawmaking to include active pursuit of development opportunities, strategic articulation of constituency needs, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to drive progress. He added that representation must deliver measurable impact, especially for youths, women, and rural communities.
On priorities, Duke listed youth empowerment, rural infrastructure, education, agriculture, and economic inclusion as key areas of focus if elected. He pledged regular engagement with constituents, saying governance must remain anchored on the voices and needs of the people.
He urged unity and active participation in the democratic process, expressing confidence that the 2027 elections offer Ngor Okpala an opportunity to redefine leadership and achieve sustainable development and political relevance.
