Steve Amuda has declared his intention to contest the House of Representatives seat for Akoko North-West/North-East Federal Constituency of Ondo State under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a manifesto released to announce his ambition, Amuda outlined his priority areas to include road infrastructure, unemployment, security, healthcare, education, and inclusive governance.
According to him, his decision to seek elective office is driven by a desire to change the narrative through what he described as transformative and people-centred governance.
“Politics is not only about sharing food items, cash gifts, or temporary handouts. Politics must be ideologically grounded, with solutions that address citizens’ real needs and concerns,” the manifesto read.
“I am offering myself to serve in the House of Representatives because our constituency deserves proper and committed representation that works for the common good of our people. If given the opportunity, I will serve with unwavering commitment to bring succour to the people of Akoko North-East and North-West,” he stated.
Amuda said he is determined to address the socio-economic challenges facing the constituency and distance himself from what he described as “the politics of individualism that benefits only a few.”
“My dear people, for too long Akoko North-East and North-West have suffered unnecessary neglect due to poor governance, which has manifested in the form of unsafe roads, rising unemployment and youth frustration, insecurity along our communities and transport routes, weak access to healthcare and education, as well as politics of exclusion and patronage,” he said.
He noted that these challenges inspired his decision to run for office.
“This campaign is about changing these narratives. If elected, my team and I will adopt a transformative, reformist style of representation to address these issues. I am deeply committed to serving you better,” Amuda added.
He further highlighted the security situation along major routes in the constituency, particularly the Ikare–Erusu–Ikaram–Ajowa–Akunu road corridor linking the Kogi axis, which he said has become increasingly dangerous and exposes residents to kidnapping and banditry.
Amuda also lamented the rising levels of unemployment and poverty, which he said are pushing young people into desperation, while healthcare facilities remain overstretched and education continues to lose its appeal due to limited economic opportunities.
“If elected, I will represent every constituent, regardless of party affiliation, religion, or background,” he pledged.
Outlining his proposed strategies, the ADC aspirant said he would advocate for community-based policing and state police reforms with strong legal safeguards, support the professional restructuring and regulation of vigilante groups under the supervision of the Nigeria Police Force, and push for training centres to build the capacity of community safety actors.
He also promised to promote early-warning and conflict-prevention systems rooted in local communities, as well as establish skills acquisition and vocational training centres to tackle youth unemployment.
On education, healthcare and social protection, Amuda said: “A healthy and educated people build a strong society. I will advocate for improved funding, accountability, and oversight of primary healthcare centres across the constituency.”
He concluded by promising to engage in broad-based consultations with residents on issues affecting the constituency, expressing confidence that collective effort would help build a safer, more productive, and respected Akoko North-East and North-West.
