A renowned public affairs analyst and the Ekwueme 1 of Akumazi Kingdom, Chief Dr. Yomi Oduselu Hassan, has declared that over 90% of electorates across Ika South have embraced his ambition to contest in the forthcoming Ika South Local Government Chairmanship election.
Chief Hassan made this known on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 during an exclusive interview with Ika Mirror at his residence in Agbor, the administrative headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area.
Speaking with confidence and clarity, the trado-medical practitioner, who has lived and worked in the local government for over 52 years, affirmed his readiness to serve the people, stating that his ambition is rooted in divine conviction and the daily struggles he witnesses among the people.
“This is not just a political ambition; it is a divine call,” Chief Hassan asserted. “What inspires me most is the pain I see our people endure every day. They deserve better, and I am ready to lead them to a new era of people-oriented governance”, he said.
He noted that his vision for Ika South is distinct and practical. If elected chairman, he revealed that he would use his personal vehicle for official duties to save public funds, and employ local artisans such as bricklayers and carpenters to handle road construction projects instead of awarding contracts to external firms. According to him, this approach will not only empower locals but also ensure cost-effective and timely delivery of projects.
Chief Hassan also promised to ensure judicious use of allocations, increase workers’ salaries, and guarantee prompt payment of salaries and pensions to both current and retired staff.
On security, he was emphatic about his plan to dismantle unnecessary roadblocks and deploy security personnel to rural bushes and inner communities to flush out armed robbers and kidnappers.
Addressing the issue of corruption, the chairmanship hopeful made it clear that anyone caught misappropriating public funds under his watch would be prosecuted without fear or favor. “Corruption will have no place in my administration. Anyone caught stealing government money will face the full weight of the law,” he said.
He further stressed that all roads within the local government will receive urgent attention, as accessible roads are key to economic development and rural transformation.
Speaking on the current state of the nation, Chief Hassan expressed concern over the widespread hardship faced by Nigerians. He stated, “Majority of Nigerians are hungry and tired. The country is facing serious challenges, but unfortunately, the focus of the government seems to have shifted completely to 2027 general elections rather than addressing pressing issues.”
He appealed to citizens to focus on productive ventures and seek self-reliant means of livelihood, emphasizing that the time has come for individuals to take charge of their own destinies.
With a grassroots appeal, a clear agenda, and a strong sense of purpose, Chief Dr. Yomi Oduselu Hassan appears poised to bring a new direction to governance in Ika South—one that prioritizes the people over politics.
