A United States-based former footballer, Mark Idum, has declared his intention to contest for the Home of Representatives seat representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency of Cross River State underneath the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) forward of the 2027 basic elections.
Idum formally introduced his ambition on Thursday, stating that his determination adopted “in depth consultations” with political stakeholders, group leaders, and residents throughout the constituency.
The previous soccer star, who rose to prominence within the Nineties and early 2000s, stated the help and encouragement he obtained through the consultations motivated him to hitch the race.
A local of Aliforkpa in Yache Ward, Yala Native Authorities Space of Cross River State, Idum stated his ambition is pushed by a want to reposition illustration in Ogoja/Yala and ship significant growth.
“I’m stepping ahead with a transparent sense of responsibility and dedication to service,” he stated. “This determination is rooted in my resolve to ship sensible options and sustainable growth that immediately impression the lives of our individuals.”
He outlined a growth agenda centred on service, accountability, and measurable impression, noting that his method would mix grassroots engagement with efficient legislative motion.
Highlighting healthcare as a key precedence, Idum pledged to enhance entry to reasonably priced and high quality providers, significantly on the major healthcare degree.
“I’ll help the improve of major healthcare centres, facilitate common medical outreach programmes, and work to draw federal well being tasks to our constituency by means of legislative motion.
“Past interventions, I’ll advocate insurance policies that enhance funding, staffing, and tools in our well being establishments so our individuals can entry high quality care with out travelling lengthy distances,” he stated.
On infrastructure, he pressured the significance of bettering highway networks throughout rural communities, describing it as important for {economic} development.
“I’ll actively pursue the development and rehabilitation of key entry roads, working with related federal companies to make sure our communities are correctly linked to main {economic} corridors. Improved roads will improve mobility, increase commerce, and enhance general high quality of life,” he said.