BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Makurdi
A leading presidential aspirant on the platform of the Labour Party, Arch. Peter Agada, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election before the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, during a visit to the royal palace.
The visit, which drew a large turnout of palace chiefs, youth groups and traditional aides, saw Agada accompanied by a delegation of young professionals and political associates.
Addressing the royal court, the former Director of Finance of the Obedient Movement outlined his policy framework tagged “Labour Direct,” identifying insecurity, youth unemployment, a weakening naira, poor infrastructure and lack of trust in governance as key challenges confronting the country.
He said his plan prioritises community-led intelligence supported by technology to tackle insecurity, establishment of industrial hubs across the geopolitical zones to drive job creation, and a skills-to-industry programme aimed at strengthening human capital development.
Agada also promised what he described as inclusive governance driven by competence, stressing that every region must have a sense of belonging.
“Nigeria needs execution, not excuses. Labour Direct is about putting Nigerians to work — securing them, skilling them and giving them a stake,” he said.
The aspirant, who is a member of the Big Tent Shadow Government serving as Minister of Infrastructure, Energy, Works, Housing and Urban Development, is also the founder of Cyrus Group Nigeria and president of the Congress of Nigerian Professionals.
In his remarks, the Och’Idoma commended the aspirant’s initiative, noting that it was encouraging to see young people organising and engaging in national politics.
He, however, called for greater unity among the Idoma people, saying internal cohesion was necessary for meaningful political advancement.
“Unity among the Idoma has been largely lacking. If we must present our best to Nigeria, we must first be united at home,” the monarch said.
The royal father offered prayers for the success of the aspiration and urged Idoma sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, to support one another.
The event ended with chants and drumming by youth groups as supporters hailed the development.
Agada’s team said nationwide consultations under the “Labour Direct” initiative would commence in May.
