Actress Tonto Dikeh has revealed why accepted to run as River State deputy governor with Tonte Ibraye as governorship aspirant under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Ibraye announced the actress as his running mate in a statement posted on Instagram on Friday, June 24.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Tonto Dikeh explained why she is the best candidate for the position. The statement reads:
“Permit me to stand on existing protocol and state that today is not a day of long speech but, a day to work on the talk.
“1. It is obvious that the majority of Nigerians and the good people of Rivers State, in particular, have complained about (sic) far too long on how governance and Democratic developmental dividends have not met international best standards.
“2. We have also grumbled on why selfless, vibrant, and innovative youths have not been given the opportunity to participate and contribute their quota towards the development of their States with a special interest in Rivers State where I come from.
“3. I Am very optimistic that we are in a defining moment in our social and political history but, desperate measures shouldn’t be the first and last option A technical approach is needed to salvage the plights confronting our dear State.
“4. Truly, the high rate of unemployment has become A fundamental challenge confronting our teeming youth, the causes of restiveness, insecurity and other social vices. We shall work out modalities for job creation for massive employment, the inclusion of more youth and women in governance and play vital roles in the development of Rivers State where their ideas and strength can be properly utilized.
“5. As a patriotic Nigerian, an advocate of good governance and a humanitarian who has positively touched the lives of millions of less privileged through my foundation, The Tonto Dikeh Foundation, and my experience in governance, leadership,administration from the Committee of Youth on Mobilization Sensitisation (CYMS), I will play a crucial role in moving RIVERS STATE.
“6. Having interacted Constantly with Mr. Tonte Ibraye, whom I have adjudged as a grounded person in international development ventures, a gentleman with an enduring passion for redefining our collective future in Rivers State, where there will be mutual ethnic respect and collective development in all sectors of our economy, I make BOLD to say that accepting this nomination is not only a good idea but, the right thing to do
“7. In light of the above, after due consultation with my family, my honorable colleagues, friends, and political associates and after seeking the face of God my ultimate helper, I Amb. Tonto Dikeh a proud daughter of Ikwere land, hereby accepts to be the running mate to Hon Tonte Ibraye, as his Deputy Governorship candidate under the platform of the African Democratic Party (ADC) ahead of the 2023 General election, to work assiduously with him in becoming the next Executive Governor of Rivers State, come 2023.
This decision is geared towards assisting him to take over Rivers State for the sole interest of the old and young, rich and poor, irrespective of their class or religion, as long as they live in Rivers State.“8. I know this is coming as a surprise, but I want to use this medium to advance my career in politics and governance, and motivate and encourage other women, especially the youth, to get involved in active politics in other to be part of policy formulation and decision-making process in a view to better the lives of our younger generations. Which part of the experiences I have gathered over the years as Director, Socials and Empowerment in the Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitisation (CYMS).
“9. In conclusion, while thanking the party for AVAILING ME THE opportunity to serve, Hon Tonte Ibraye, the ADC Rivers State Governorship candidate for choosing me as his running mate, I humbly solicit your prayers and unflinching support as I embark on this political ambition. Be rest assured of my full commitment to putting Rivers State first as my top priority.”