By DADA AYOKHAI
The 2027 general elections in Edo North are shaping up to be a fierce battle, with the ruling APC facing a strong challenge from the newly formed African Democratic Coalition (ADC).
In Akoko Edo, incumbent Hon. Peter Akpatason’s bid for a fifth term at the House of Representatives may be threatened by ADC’s Dr. Thomas Atta, who could emerge as a formidable opponent if he wins the ADC primary .
Dr Atta, who hails from the Ososo community, has the potential to disrupt the APC’s grip in the Akoko Edo axis.
A Well-respected and beloved by the people of the Akoko Edo constituency,
Dr Thomas Atta holds a PhD in Social and Personality Psychology. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology from the premier university, the University of Ibadan in Oyo State, followed by a Master’s degree in Performance and Human Personality.
Those who know Dr Thomas Atta assert that his academic background in psychology has afforded him a distinctive understanding of human behaviour and interpersonal connections.
This insight has become a cornerstone of his approach as he navigates the tumultuous waters of politics, a stark departure from his prior scholarly pursuits.
In a recent conversation with journalists, the soft-spoken intellectual, who seems to have traded the academic world for the unpredictable arena of political engagement, opened up about his diverse experiences.
He touched on his extensive involvement in community service, charitable organisations, and various outreach initiatives, emphasising the profound impact these activities have had on his life and outlook.
Dr Atta shared that what truly drives him is witnessing the tangible struggles of individuals around him. For him, hardship transcends mere statistics; it manifests in the familiar faces of capable individuals — educated youth burdened by unrelenting challenges, industrious traders, and skilled artisans who work tirelessly yet find themselves falling behind due to a lack of systemic support and opportunities.
”The pivotal moment for me,” he reflected, “was recognising that my silence and personal success could no longer suffice in the face of these issues. I recall instances when necessities like healthcare access, school fees, and small capital loans transformed into life-altering crises for families simply because assistance arrived too late, or not at all.”
He elaborated on the dire situation in the country, where soaring inflation erodes not just economic stability but also personal dignity.
He pointed out that countless young individuals who strive to follow the right path still encounter closed doors, reinforcing a heavy sense of responsibility on those of us capable of giving back, even in modest ways initially.
At the heart of his humanitarian efforts is a commitment to combatting the pervasive sense of hopelessness that envelops many communities. Dr Atta believes that community service and humanitarian work serve as vital instruments to restore dignity and instil hope, allowing individuals to envision a brighter future.
Dr Atta’s philosophical musings resonate deeply with those who know him. His life, he explains, has been fundamentally shaped by the collective suffering and social injustices he has encountered firsthand. “Once you witness such profound suffering up close,” he asserted, “you face a choice: turn away or dedicate yourself to reforming the flawed system that perpetuates it.”
He firmly stated his commitment to transforming the prevailing injustices, asserting that there is no turning back.
Moreover, his decision to plunge into the political landscape was motivated by an urgent desire to address the overwhelming plight of the populace and to establish a new governance model that is inclusive, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or social class.
Such profound declarations are sure to send shivers down the spines of the Edo North APC political leaders who believe they can dictate outcomes unchallenged.
