Ex-Revenue Chief, Balogun Joins Akoko-Edo House of Reps Race
By DADA AYOKHAI
Otunba Bankole Balogun, former chairman of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service, has declared his bid for the Akoko-Edo federal constituency seat in the House of Representatives come 2027.
In a letter to constituents, Balogun said he made the decision “after deep reflection and wide consultations with leaders, elders, party members and stakeholders” across Akoko Edo
He also announced his resignation from the revenue service, complying with the governor’s directive that appointees seeking elective office must step aside.
Balogun, who hails from the Igarra area of Akoko-Edo, twice ran on the PDP platform but lost to Hon. Peter Akpatason, the incumbent now serving a fourth term.
With Balogun now in the APC, the two are set to meet in the party primaries to decide who will bear the flag in the National Assembly election.
According to Balogun, “My aspiration to represent our constituency in the National Assembly has been nurtured over many years and is driven by a firm conviction that Akoko-Edo deserves strong, credible, and effective representation at the federal level.”
”Our constituency is rich in talent, enterprise, and potential. However, we must strengthen our presence at the national level to ensure that Akoko-Edo benefits fully from federal opportunities in areas such as:
•Infrastructure and road development
•Youth empowerment and job creation
•Agricultural development and rural investment
•Education and healthcare infrastructure
•Strategic federal projects and social intervention programmes”
”I therefore offer myself for service with humility, experience, and a deep commitment to the progress and unity of our people.”
My vision is to work tirelessly to strengthen the voice of Akoko-Edo in the National Assembly, attract meaningful development to our communities, and ensure that our people receive the representation and opportunities they deserve.”
I humbly seek the support, prayers, and goodwill of the good people of Akoko-Edo as we embark on this journey together.
With unity, purpose, and collective resolve, I am confident that we can secure a stronger future for our constituency.”
