Tekena Thankgod Ikpaki, a prominent philanthropist and community leader, has formally declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing the Okrika–Ogubolo Federal Constituency in Rivers State.
Ikpaki made the declaration during a well-attended civic reception held on Saturday, April 2, 2026, at Ogu-Bolo Town Square, where community leaders, supporters, and residents gathered to endorse his ambition.
The event also reignited conversations around political equity within the constituency, as speakers highlighted that the federal legislative seat had remained in Okrika Local Government Area for over two decades. They called for a power shift to Ogubolo Local Government Area in the interest of fairness, balance, and inclusiveness.
A community leader who spoke at the event stressed the need for rotational representation between the two sister local governments, noting that “for about 20 to 24 years, sons of Okrika have occupied the position,” adding that “this time, equity demands that it shifts to Ogubolo.”
In his address, Ikpaki anchored his candidacy on over 20 years of humanitarian service, stating that his journey has been defined by consistent community development efforts rather than political ambition.
“Leadership begins with service,” he said. “For over two decades, I have walked this path with you quietly and consistently, driven by a belief in human capital development.”
He cited the impact of his foundation, which he said had awarded thousands of scholarships to students within and beyond the Okrika Nation, supported widows, provided healthcare interventions including life-saving treatments, and empowered youths through vocational training initiatives such as placements at Songhai Farms in Delta State.
“These were not promises; they were actions. And we did all of this without holding any political office,” Ikpaki noted.
However, he argued that philanthropy alone is no longer sufficient to address the broader developmental needs of the constituency.
“Our people deserve more—more infrastructure, more opportunities, quality representation, and access to resources that rightfully belong to us,” he said. “To achieve this at a greater scale, service must meet representation.”
Ikpaki pledged that if elected, he would focus on impactful legislation, grassroots engagement, and accountability. He promised to sponsor bills that directly benefit the constituency and maintain a strong presence through regular town hall meetings and an active constituency office.
“I will not go to the National Assembly to warm seats. I will go there to work,” he declared. “I will be accessible, accountable, and present.”
He further assured constituents that he would not abandon their trust, emphasizing that his candidacy represents a collective movement rather than a personal ambition.
“This is not just my journey—it is our movement, built on years of proven service and driven by hope, action, and results,” he said.
Supporters at the event described Ikpaki as a man of integrity with a proven track record, expressing confidence that his transition from philanthropy to public office would translate into effective representation.
One speaker noted that Ikpaki’s long-standing record of supporting the less privileged, including widows, youths, and persons with disabilities, demonstrates his capacity to deliver if given a larger platform.
The declaration signals what could become a significant political shift in the Okrika–Ogubolo Federal Constituency ahead of the next general elections, particularly amid growing calls for power rotation and grassroots-driven representation.
