The Ebonyi APGA Governorship Candidate, Prof. Benard Odoh, has pledged to prioritise security and human capital development, if elected in 2023.
Odoh made the pledge at a news conference in Abakaliki on Wednesday.
He unveiled his running mate, Dr Nkata Chukwu, a medical practitioner, at the conference.
The governorship hopeful also promised to initiate a cost-effective approach to governance.
“On business investment, we will balance the issue of taxation and create business friendly environment.
“We will reduce the cost of taxation.
“Those in business are usually partners in economic development of any state.
“Let me tell you, Ebonyi has investment opportunities in the three senatorial zone.
“When I become the governor in 2023, I will invest in citizens through job creation, provision of good healthcare, quality education and security.
“I am not going to embark on needless projects. My focus will be people-oriented projects.
“I will engage the youths and ensure that the rate of cultism and other crimes are reduced,” Odoh said.
He gave assurance that APGA was fully ready for the election, adding that it had good structure to win the governorship.
“I challenge my opponents to come for public debate so that the people will know who is prepared to do the job,” he said.
He appealed to the South-East political leaders to pursue regional, rather than personal interest.
Odoh said that such a political mindset would help to strengthen democracy in the zone and country at large.
Reports have it that Odoh’s running mate, Chukwu, hails from Okposi Community in Ohaozara Local Government Area.
He studied Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos and has an MSc. in Health Financing and Policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, amongst others.
In a remark, he thanked Odoh for choosing him.
He promised that he would work assiduously to ensure he delivered on Odoh’s vision as governor.