In a bid to usher in a new era of progress and development in Udu Local Government Council, Delta State, former Vice Chairman Justice Irikefe Iyasere has officially announced his candidacy for the position of Executive Chairman in the upcoming local government elections.

With a promise to make a substantial impact if elected, Justice Iyasere aims to address crucial issues affecting the community and pave the way for positive change.

Justice Iyasere, who previously served as the Vice Chairman of the council, is no stranger to public service and governance. Currently working as an aide to Hon Samuel Mariere, the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board, Justice Iyasere brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to improving the lives of the people in the region.

In a statement released to the media on Wednesday, Justice Iyasere highlighted his vision for the council, emphasizing his dedication to creating wealth for the residents, advancing infrastructural development, combating insecurity, and fostering job opportunities for the youth.

He expressed his readiness to implement innovative strategies that would drive economic growth and ensure that the people receive tangible benefits from the government.

A distinguished alumnus of Delta State University, Abraka, Justice Iyasere’s academic excellence and leadership skills have prepared him well for this new challenge. His proposed developmental initiatives are centered on leveraging private sector partnerships to drive progress, while ensuring that the government plays a crucial role in providing the necessary support for economic expansion.

‘’For the past 8 years, I have been consistent in my determination to offer myself to serve Udu as Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council. In 2017, the elders and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP endorsed me for Chairman and a letter to that effect transmitted to the then Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, who in his wisdom however settled for my former boss, Chief Jite Brown. I took everything with equanimity and was made Vice Chairman of the council at the end of the day.

‘’In 2020, following the tradition of one tenure for council chairmen in Udu over the years, I pleaded with the then council Chairman to let me take over since Udu would naturally settle for a new hand. He insisted on running. Udu leaders, once again, endorsed me for the position of Chairman but just as in 2017, the governor insisted on returning the former Chairman for a second term. All that, is now history.

‘’Today, I offer myself once again to serve Udu as Council Chairman. I appeal to my Udu leaders to consider me for this onerous assignment just as I pledge to serve Udu diligently with all my might and strength. Of all those in the race today, I am the most experienced in council administration having served as Vice Chairman of the council.

“I am educated enough to be a pride to Udu in the comity of Council Chairmen. My contacts and reach are wide enough to attract the right investments to Udu if voted as Chairman.

‘’I have everything mapped out on how to deliver the best for Udu. The land is blessed with abundant human and natural resources enough to stimulate the needed development we need in line with the MORE Agenda of the present administration.

“What is lacking is the right leadership to activate the potentials of our people and grow the economy; kindle the latent patriotic zeal in the people towards the needed development; provoke a positive energy in capable hands through job creation; and inspire our youths to pick the challenge of re-shaping our world to make it a better place for all. I am here to serve with fresh ideas on how to move Udu forward.

‘’Most of the developments that will take place under my watch will be through public-private partnership and this will require minimal government funding for assured service delivery. The guarantee and right atmosphere would be provided for the private sector to drive the economy and stimulate all round development of the land. Details of these plans are contained in my manifesto to be released shortly.

‘’As I make this solemn declaration to run for Chairman of Udu Local Government Council on the PDP platform, I count on the support of the leaders and ordinary Udu people to make this dream a reality.

“I count on your prayers and generous support so that together we can embark on this journey to make Udu a better place for all. I have no godfathers, but you all are my godfathers. Over the years, I have made friends in the corridor of power, but your support is what I crave most so that when I win, it would be victory for us all. Udu money will then be used to serve Udu and create wealth for our people.

‘’There is a new Sheriff in town who will listen to your voice in this matter. Support me this one more time and that is all that would be required to seal this enterprise. I can assure you that the fear of being rejected in Asaba is no longer there. The PDP is in search of people that are in touch with the pains and struggles of the ordinary people. I am here to serve you. The man you supported and fought for in 2017 and 2020 has not changed.

“This is 2024, I pray you to hold my hands and let us embark on this journey together. Yes, together we can make it. Thank you for your generous support over the years. Please, let us do it once again,’’ Iyasere added.

As Justice Iyasere steps forward to seek the party’s nomination for the office of Executive Chairman, his candidacy has sparked optimism among residents who are eager for positive change and meaningful development in Udu Local Government Council. With his track record of excellence and commitment to service, Justice Iyasere’s campaign is poised to bring a fresh perspective and transformative leadership to the region.