2027: Agabi Emerges NDC Candidate For Etsako Central, Calls For Unity, Promises New Era of Accountability

Chief Hon. David Omokkhai Agabi has emerged as the candidate and flag bearer of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the Etsako Central State Constituency ahead of the 2027 Edo State House of Assembly election, pledging to provide purposeful, accountable and development-oriented representation if elected.

Agabi, who emerged from the party’s primary election, used his acceptance speech to extend a hand of fellowship to other aspirants, urging party members and supporters to put the disagreements of the primary behind them and unite for the larger interest of the NDC and the people of Etsako Central.

He particularly appealed to his fellow aspirants, Mr. John Brai Aloye and Comrade Matthew Amedu Eghiebade, describing them as brothers and friends whose experience, networks and commitment remain valuable to the party’s efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the contest was not about personal rivalry but about giving party delegates the opportunity to determine who would best represent the constituency.

“Though we may have disagreed at certain points, we share the same goals and party ideals: a better Etsako Central under the platform of the NDC,” Agabi said.

He therefore called on all aspirants, delegates and supporters to bury their differences, stressing that the primary election had ended and the party must now concentrate on the larger political contest ahead.

Agabi said his campaign would be anchored on issues affecting the people rather than personal attacks, promising to pursue a people-centred agenda focused on infrastructure, employment, education, healthcare, agriculture, security and social welfare.

He identified poor roads, inadequate electricity supply, youth unemployment, limited economic opportunities, insecurity and insufficient social amenities among the challenges requiring urgent attention across Etsako Central.

The constituency comprises communities and clans including Fugar, Iraokhor, Ogbona, Ivhiarua, Ivhionone, Ekperi, Udaba, Anegbette, Udochi, Imiava and other settlements within the local government area.

Agabi said that if elected into the Edo State House of Assembly, he would make effective representation, legislative advocacy and accountability central to his mandate.

Among the priorities he highlighted are the improvement of inner roads and drainage infrastructure, support for farmers, traders and small business owners, youth skills development and employment opportunities, stronger primary healthcare and improved educational facilities.

He also promised to promote greater accountability through regular engagement with constituents, including town-hall meetings, public updates on his legislative activities and an open-door approach to constituency representation.

“Enough of mediocrity in representation. Enough of representation without projects to show. Enough of representation without accountability. Etsako Central Constituency deserves better,” he declared.

The NDC candidate further promised to advocate stronger community-based security arrangements while working with established state and federal security agencies to improve safety across the constituency.

He also listed the protection of the girl child and vulnerable persons, improved workers’ welfare, support for elderly citizens and assistance to less-privileged residents among the areas he intends to prioritise.

Of particular concern to him, he said, are communities vulnerable to seasonal flooding and displacement, especially riverine settlements, where he promised sustained advocacy for lasting solutions and humanitarian intervention when necessary.

Agabi's political ambition comes against the background of his previous participation in the Etsako Central State Assembly race. Public election records show that a candidate identified as Agabi David Omokhkhai contested the Etsako Central constituency in the 2023 State House of Assembly election on the platform of the NNPP.

The Etsako Central constituency is currently represented in the Edo State House of Assembly by Ahmed Oshmah of the APC, according to available records.

With the 2027 election approaching, Agabi is positioning his campaign around the argument that Etsako Central requires a stronger legislative voice capable of translating constituency concerns into effective advocacy, legislative initiatives and practical interventions.

He appealed to supporters of the NDC to mobilise across wards and polling units, while urging the party to conduct an issue-based campaign devoid of rancour and personal attacks.

“Whether you voted for me during the primaries or not, whether you are a member of the NDC or still undecided, remember that Etsako Central is our constituency and our shared future,” he said.

He called on the people to support his aspiration and work collectively toward what he described as a new era of purposeful representation.

According to him, the ultimate objective is not simply to win an election but to build a constituency where the people can demand accountability from their representative and participate meaningfully in decisions affecting their communities.

“Together, we can build the Etsako Central of our collective dreams; a local government united in prosperity, growth, development and progress,” Agabi said.

He concluded by calling on voters to support the NDC in the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that a united party and a clearly defined development agenda could deliver victory for the party in Etsako Central.