ABUJA/Nigeria: In a recent interview on Channels Television’s “The Gavel,” Hon Jonathan Ukodhiko, the representative for Isoko North/South Federal Constituency, expressed his belief that combatting poverty is key to strengthening the nation’s security architecture. As the voice of his constituents in the National Assembly, he pledged to champion programs aimed at reducing poverty within his constituency.
Ukodhiko emphasized the importance of providing security guarantees to farmers, stating that their confidence in agricultural activities would significantly contribute to minimizing insecurity. He highlighted the correlation between food availability for families and a decrease in security threats. He stated, “One of the problems we are having is the high rate of poverty, which is caused by the high rate of unemployment.”
The legislator further criticized the prevailing situation where oil-producing companies operating within the constituency fail to provide employment opportunities for residents.
He emphasized the need to empower the community by equipping them with the knowledge and means to generate wealth. To address this, he pledged to implement wealth creation programs and support farmers with high-yield cassava stems and improved seedlings.
Collaboration with security agencies was another aspect Ukodhiko emphasized, recognizing the need for adequate protection for farmers. He asserted, “Once we are able to provide them with security, we will be able to reduce poverty in our communities, and when you reduce poverty, you will improve security.”
In addition, Hon Jonathan Ukodhiko expressed his commitment to actively engage with his constituents and seek solutions to their challenges. He dismissed the notion of being a detached lawmaker in Abuja, stating his intention to regularly return to his constituency for direct interactions. Townhall meetings, organized at the community and clan levels, were proposed as effective avenues for engaging various stakeholders such as Presidents-General, community leaders, church leaders, and opinion leaders.
As the representative for Isoko, an ethnic group residing in a prominent onshore oil producing region, Ukodhiko expressed confidence in the effectiveness of these grassroots engagements. By maintaining close ties and soliciting input from the community, he aims to address their pressing needs and concerns.
