First Baba Isa’s article makes a case for recycling Hon. Godwin Offiono for a second term, arguing that “ranking status” matters more than performance. That argument sounds reasonable on the surface, but it ignores the reality Ogoja/Yala is facing today: we need delivery, not just seniority.
Here’s why Ogoja/Yala should back Dr. Mrs. Stella Oreme Odey Ekpo as a first-timer:
The idea that a new member spends two years “finding their way” only holds true for those who come unprepared. Dr. Stella is not coming to learn politics. She understands policy, governance, and how to engage the federal system to attract projects. Ogoja/Yala cannot afford to wait another four years for “experience” when we can elect readiness now.
Baba Isa admits we expected more from the current representative but asks us to keep him anyway. That is the definition of settling for less. A ranking member who is aloof, disconnected, and fails to carry the people along becomes a Rep menber of Abuja, not Ogoja/Yala. Influence without impact is useless to the farmer in Yala and the trader in Ogoja.
Dr. Stella is qualified legally, morally, and culturally. She is a daughter of Yala, and denying her on account of marriage is denying every Yala woman her birthright. Supporting her is not just about gender; it’s about sending a message that Ogoja/Yala rewards competence and fairness, not political recycling.
A first-timer with the right connections can open doors faster than a second-timer who has lost touch with the grassroots. Dr. Stella’s reputation as a networker and professional gives her an advantage in building relationships across party lines and MDAs without waiting for “ranking” to do the talking.
Ogoja/Yala does not need a seat-warmer in Abuja. We need a voice that is present, accessible, and hungry to deliver. Dr. Stella Odey Ekpo represents that shift.
Let’s stop rewarding underperformance in the name of seniority. Let’s choose the candidate who will hit the ground running and make Ogoja/Yala count in the Green Chambers from day one.
God bless Ogoja/Yala.
God bless Dr. Stella Odey Ekpo.