May 09, (THEWILL) — A 43-year-old entrepreneur, Richard Akinaka, has formally declared his ambition to contest the Bayelsa Central Senatorial District seat under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), positioning himself as a candidate to address what he described as a persistent leadership deficit affecting grassroots communities.
He submitted the documents to the State PDP Chairman, Alabh George Turnah, at the PDP Secretariat in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, with party officials, supporters, and well-wishers present.
Speaking on Saturday, Akinaka said his decision to contest followed an earlier declaration of interest made at a party gathering on Tuesday.
Addressing party members and supporters, Akinaka said his candidacy was a response to the socio-economic challenges facing rural dwellers in the senatorial district.
“As one who has experienced the life of our people living in rural communities, I see myself as an embodiment of the collective aspirations of our people. That is why I have thrown my hat into the ring to address the leadership gap and make life better for our people”, he stated.
He emphasised his personal connection to the struggles of constituents, arguing that lived experience provides him with both legitimacy and urgency.
“I want the best for my constituency. Having experienced life in the same conditions many of our people face, I see it as a responsibility to improve livelihoods at the grassroots. That is why I am seeking this platform—to advance that purpose”, Akinaka added.
The aspiring lawmaker also dismissed age as a limiting factor in governance, asserting that competence and accountability should be the primary criteria for leadership.
“I am 43 years old, and I have the capacity to run for this position. Age is not an indication of performance; it is just a number. The real question is whether the individual is responsible enough to undertake the task. If that is the benchmark, then I am well qualified to represent Bayelsa Central in the Senate”, he said.
Akinaka’s entry into the race introduces a youth-driven narrative into the contest, with a focus on grassroots development, representation, and inclusive governance. Political observers note that his candidacy may resonate with younger voters and underserved rural populations seeking a shift from traditional political actors.
The Bayelsa Central Senatorial contest is expected to attract significant attention in the coming months as parties finalise their candidates ahead of the general elections.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
