Mark Idum, a former footballer based in the United States, has declared his candidacy for the House of Representatives seat representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in Cross River State under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections.
Idum, a native of Aliforkpa in Yache Ward, Yala Local Government Area, made the announcement on Thursday following “extensive consultations” with political stakeholders, community leaders, and residents across the constituency. He said the widespread encouragement and support he received convinced him to enter the race.
The ex-footballer, who gained prominence in the 1990s and early 2000s, said his bid is motivated by a desire to reposition federal representation for Ogoja/Yala and deliver tangible development outcomes. He emphasised that his approach would combine grassroots engagement with effective legislative action.
Idum outlined a development agenda centred on service, accountability, and measurable impact, with key priorities including healthcare, infrastructure, education, agriculture, power supply, and water access.
On healthcare, he pledged to prioritise access to affordable and quality services, particularly at the primary healthcare level. He promised to support the upgrade of primary healthcare centres, facilitate regular medical outreach programmes, and work to attract federal health projects to the constituency through legislative action. He also committed to advocating for improved funding, staffing, and equipment in health institutions.
Addressing infrastructure, Idum highlighted the need to improve road connectivity across rural communities, describing it as critical to economic growth. He said he would actively pursue the construction and rehabilitation of key access roads, working with relevant federal agencies to ensure communities are properly linked to major economic corridors.
On education, he promised targeted interventions to improve learning conditions and outcomes, including support for the renovation of schools, provision of learning materials, and capacity development for teachers. He also pledged to push for increased access to federal education programmes, grants, and infrastructure.
Idum identified agriculture, power supply, and water access as critical areas requiring urgent attention, promising to support sustainable solutions. He said he would work towards improving electricity supply by supporting rural electrification projects and advocating for the installation of power infrastructure in underserved communities. He also committed to facilitating access to clean water through the provision of boreholes and support for federal water projects.
He stressed his commitment to inclusive and responsive leadership, assuring constituents of consistent engagement and representation. “My goal is not just to represent, but to work closely with the people to ensure their voices are reflected in national decision-making,” he said.
Idum’s candidacy adds a new dimension to the political landscape in Ogoja/Yala as the 2027 elections approach, with his background in sports and international experience potentially appealing to a broad electorate.
