By Our Reporter
OGOJA (CONVERSEER) – A prominent grassroots advocate and community voice from Northern Cross River, MacJohnson Chikone Odey, has declared his intention to contest for the Senate seat representing Cross River North Senatorial District, promising to champion a people-centred political movement that restores dignity, accountability and genuine representation.
Odey, who describes himself as a product of the communities that make up the Northern Senatorial District, said his decision to seek elective office is inspired by his upbringing and deep connection with the people of the area.
Reflecting on his formative years, he recalled growing up in the streets of Igoli, working and playing in the farms of Bekwarra, swimming in the streams along Okuku Road, and celebrating the rich cultural traditions of the new yam festivals in Obudu and Obanliku.
According to him, those experiences shaped his understanding of leadership, community values and the responsibility of public office.
“I grew up in a time when politics in Cross River North was defined by principle, integrity and deep respect for the people. Leaders understood that public office was a trust given by the people, not a platform for personal glorification,” Odey said.
He lamented what he described as a growing culture in which political leadership is increasingly measured by displays of wealth rather than by service and accountability.
“It is unfortunate that politics today is often reduced to a contest of status and appearances, while citizens are made to celebrate what should ordinarily be their basic entitlements from government. Leadership must never become a theatre of personal praise,” he stated.
Odey also criticised what he called the dangerous trend of weaponising poverty in politics, warning that such practices undermine the confidence and dignity of citizens, particularly young people.
“When leaders manipulate hardship to maintain control, they create psychological barriers that make people feel powerless and resigned to difficult circumstances. That must change,” he added.
He equally called on elders and community leaders to play a more active role in guiding younger generations towards principled leadership and responsible civic participation.
“There has been a worrying silence from some quarters where wisdom and guidance should come from. Our elders must help nurture a culture of truth, courage and service among emerging leaders,” he noted.
Outlining his political philosophy, Odey stressed that democracy belongs to the people and that elected officials must always remain accountable to those who gave them the mandate.
“No one owns the people. Rather, the people own those they choose to lead them. Power belongs to the citizens and must never be monopolised by a small circle that determines the political and economic future of entire communities,” he said.
He explained that his campaign will focus on mobilising citizens across villages, towns and communities within the district to reclaim their democratic power.
“I have decided to contest for the Senate to lead a new struggle, a struggle where, for the first time, the people truly own their candidate and hold their representative accountable. The office should never control the people; the people must control the office they created,” he declared.
Odey maintained that leaders must approach governance with humility rather than entitlement.
“Governance must be owned by the people, shaped by their voices and guided by sincerity. Those chosen to lead must remain humble servants of the people,” he said.
He also positioned his candidacy as a credible alternative to what he described as an era of overhyped leadership that has failed to deliver meaningful transformation.
“We are not afraid to step forward as an alternative. Leadership has been reduced to such a low level that routine interventions are now celebrated as miracles. Our people deserve far more than that,” Odey stated.
According to him, the future of Cross River North must be anchored on truth, transparency and shared progress among its people.
“Our communities must be united by sincerity, strengthened by empowerment and guided by a shared vision of development. Above all, we must remember that we are one people, brothers and sisters committed to positive progress for our land,” he concluded.
With his Senate aspiration, MacJohnson Chikone Odey says he hopes to ignite a people-driven political awakening across Cross River North, one that places citizens at the centre of governance and restores the true meaning of public service.
