A rapturous, mammoth crowd on Sunday, poured out in Ogoja through to Ugaga Kingdom to receive Hon. Dr Mrs Stella Odey-Ekpo, the leading aspirant for the House of Representatives seat for Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, in what many described as a triumphant homecoming.The reception began at Dukes Park, Igoli Ogoja, where supporters gathered in their numbers before escorting her in a long, jubilant motorcade through Ishibori and Mission Road, Igoli, culminating in Ugaga Kingdom her immediate community. The atmosphere was electric, with chants, music and colourful displays underscoring the depth of grassroots support for the frontline aspirant.At Ugaga, the Council of Chiefs formally endorsed Dr Odey-Ekpo and bestowed royal blessings upon her, a symbolic gesture aimed at preparing her for the forthcoming elections. In their remarks, the traditional rulers extolled her virtues—describing her as humane, humble, and a woman of integrity with a proven track record of leadership worthy of emulation.Speaker after speaker at the gathering echoed similar sentiments, praising her accessibility, compassion and commitment to public service. They expressed confidence that her candidacy represents a new chapter of purposeful representation for the people of Ogoja/Yala.Clearly moved by the overwhelming turnout, Dr Odey-Ekpo thanked the crowd for what she described as an outpouring of love that left her deeply humbled. She pledged to offer effective and people-centred representation at the National Assembly, assuring constituents that their voices would be heard and their interests vigorously pursued.The aspirant was accompanied by her immediate staff, the Director-General and members of the Renewed Sweet Ambassadors for Stella, alongside other key stakeholders. The event, widely regarded as a powerful demonstration of grassroots strength, has further reinforced her standing as a formidable contender.For many observers, the message from Ogoja through to Ugaga Kingdom her immediate community was unmistakable: the race for Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency may well have found its frontrunner.
