A prominent stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Honourable Richard Imoter Nomkpo has picked a nomination form of the ruling party declaring his interest to contest for chairmanship of Kwande local government in the forthcoming council elections in Benue State.
Nomkpo obtained the form on Monday at the party’s secretariat in Makurdi where he promised to support the government of Governor Hyacinth Alia in delivering good governance to the people of Kwande and the State.
The Kwande hopeful becomes the earliest aspirant to declare his intention to run for the chairmanship seat.
Nomkpo who picked the form at about 3:20 pm after paying the mandatory fee of N5million was handed over the electoral document by the Benue state Organising Secretary Mr. James Ornguga.
A statement by his Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation Lubem Gena said, “This is a crucial step in his quest to lead the Local Government, as he aims to bring transformative governance to the area.”
The statement said Nomkpo, who has long been an active member of the APC and a prominent advocate for grassroots development, expressed his commitment to driving progress and ensuring that Kwande Local Government aligns with the broader vision of Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
Speaking to journalists at the APC secretariat in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, after obtaining the form, Nomkpo highlighted the need for strong and effective leadership at the Local Government level to complement the Governor’s efforts in delivering good governance to the people of Benue State.
“My decision to run for the chairmanship of Kwande Local Government is driven by a deep desire to contribute to the development of our communities and support the ongoing efforts of Governor Alia in transforming Benue State,” Nomkpo stated.
He added that, “I believe that with the right leadership, we can harness the vast potentials of Kwande and make it a model of good governance, economic growth, and social development.”
Nomkpo’s candidacy has garnered significant support from various quarters, including party leaders, community members, youth groups, and friends across the Local Government who see in him a quintessential leader with the vision and capacity to address the basic challenges facing Kwande LocalGovernment Area.
His reputation as a grassroots mobiliser, support group Co-ordinator and a unifying figure in the community has further solidified his standing as a front-runner in the upcoming Chairmanship election.
While addressing party faithfuls and supporters, Nomkpo outlined his priorities when elected to include: improving infrastructure, enhancing educational opportunities, promoting agricultural development, and ensuring the security of lives and properties in Kwande Local Government.
He emphasised the importance of working closely with Governor Alia’s administration to ensure that the Local Government’s policies and programmes are in sync with the State’s broader development agenda.
“The task ahead is daunting yet surmountable. With the support of our people and the backing of the APC, I am confident that we can bring about meaningful change in Kwande Local Government Area.
“I am committed to running an inclusive Government that listens to the needs of the people and responds with practical solutions. Together, we can build a Kwande that we will all be proud of,” he maintained.
As the race for the nomination of APC ticket for Kwande Local Government Area Chairmanship election heats up, Hon. Richard Imoter Nomkpo’s entry into the contest is expected to inject new energy into the campaign, with many political observers predicting a keenly contested election. His vision for the Local Government and his alignment with Governor Alia’s governance style are seen as key factors that would influence the outcome of the race.