IDUMUIYASE ELDERS PRAY FOR IKPEA’S RE-ELECTION, DECLARE: “WE HAVE SENT OUR SON”

Kingsley Ohens reporting

EWATTO, EDO STATE — In a symbolic expression of community solidarity and traditional goodwill, the people of Idumuiyase, Ewatto, the immediate community of Distinguished Senator Joseph Igiagbe Ikpea, have offered prayers for the Senator as he prepares for his re-election campaign, reaffirming their connection with him as a son of the soil.

The prayer session, led by the Iyasele of Ewatto, Chief Kenneth Iyase, brought together men and women, including respected elders known as the Edion, who took time to commit the Senator to God in prayers, seeking divine guidance, protection, strength and success in his public service journey.

In a defining moment, the community members proudly declared that they had sent their son to represent the people of Edo Central Senatorial District in the Senate, expressing their pride in his public service journey and their hopes for continued representation. The declaration reflected not only their bond with Senator Ikpea as a son of the soil but also their recognition of his broader responsibility to the people of Edo Central, irrespective of local government, community or political affiliation.

The gathering also provided an opportunity for the people to commend the developmental strides of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, particularly initiatives and projects they associate with development across Edo State and Esanland. Their remarks reflected their expectations for sustained attention to infrastructure, community development and improved living conditions.

Addressing the gathering, Senator Ikpea expressed appreciation to the people for their continued support, goodwill and prayers. He acknowledged the significance of their encouragement and the place of his immediate community in his public life.

The Senator explained that his visit was first and foremost to seek the prayers and blessings of his people before embarking fully on his re-election campaign. The gesture highlighted his decision to begin the next phase of his political engagement by reconnecting with his roots and seeking the spiritual support of the elders and community members.

The encounter in Idumuiyase reinforced the enduring relationship between the Senator and his immediate community, bringing together traditional leadership, elders and residents in a moment centred on prayer, appreciation and shared hopes for the future.

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the meeting highlighted the importance of community ties, traditional leadership and grassroots engagement in political conversations across Edo Central Senatorial District, while underscoring the shared aspirations of the people for inclusive representation and sustained development.