Ikpea Advocates Local Government Autonomy for Development

On July 11, Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District, addressed the need for local government autonomy as a catalyst for development in Edo State. Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign flag-off for the upcoming local government elections, Ikpea advised elected chairmen to manage financial resources prudently to avoid attracting the attention of anti-graft agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He noted that while autonomy is crucial, it does not exempt council chairmen from accountability, as they can still be summoned by the EFCC. Ikpea also mentioned the efforts of Governor Mondai Okebholo in supporting the APC's campaign and urged party members to rally behind the party's candidates in the local government elections across five local government areas in Edo Central.

Additionally, he highlighted his role as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Drug and Narcotics, emphasizing the need for programs to combat substance abuse among youth.