The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially begun selling nomination and expression of interest forms to aspirants vying for seats in the upcoming National Assembly bye-elections scheduled for August 16 across 12 states.
These elections aim to fill legislative vacancies created by lawmakers who resigned or passed away after pursuing executive positions.
Among the aspirants who picked up their forms on Monday at the APC national secretariat in Abuja was Mr. Oscar Aghedo, contesting to represent the Ovia South-West/North-East Federal Constituency in Edo State.
Speaking to journalists after collecting his forms, Aghedo said, “Today is a great day for me, having purchased these forms to run for the Federal House of Representatives for Ovia South-West/North-East Federal Constituency.”
He outlined his legislative vision and commitment to community development. “My intention to represent my people is to make good laws for our country and to ensure proper representation, especially in the area of infrastructural development.”
“I assure you that I will make my people proud. Some of my constituents are here with me, and I sincerely appreciate them for their support so far,” he stated.
Aghedo urged the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) to conduct transparent primaries on July 19.
He stressed that if elected, he would focus on implementing constituency projects and promoting youth and citizen empowerment.
He also praised the work of his predecessor, now serving as the Edo Deputy Governor.
“The immediate past lawmaker, who is now the Edo deputy governor, had done remarkably well in infrastructure development. I will not just build on that but will give priority to human capacity development,” Aghedo added.
Expressing confidence in his candidacy, he acknowledged support from key stakeholders.
“By the grace of God, I have the blessings of God, the governor’s support, and the mandate of my people.”
“I have made several contributions to my constituency and my community. That is why they believe in me, and I have a lot to offer if elected in office.”
He reiterated his plan to prioritize empowerment programs.
“Youth and women’s empowerment and support for the less privileged would be my priorities.”
“Keeping the youth meaningfully engaged will reduce the crime wave and other social vices. We must create avenues to keep them productive and focused.”
“Fortunately, insecurity in my constituency is currently low, but we must not relax; we will work to keep it at the barest minimum,” he said.
Also present at the party’s national secretariat was Yakubu Waziri, an aspirant for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State. Waziri highlighted the improvements in the security situation in the area.
“For a long time, the area had constantly been in the news for negative reasons,” he said.
“We are not just experiencing relative peace; we are enjoying permanent peace, to the glory of God.”
Waziri pledged to focus on security and youth empowerment if elected.
He also expressed confidence heading into the polls: “I have no fears going into the election. I have God on my side and the support of the people as well as the governor.”
