The National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South Federal Constituency, Ededem Iniobong Hogan, has kicked against what he described as the “politics of handouts,” saying rice, cash and other items should not be presented as substitutes for sustainable development.

Hogan spoke yesterday at the unveiling of his campaign secretariat on Egerton Street, Calabar, where he also presented his manifesto for the 2027 House of Representatives election.

He said his campaign would focus on issue-based representation and addressing the specific challenges confronting constituents across the three local government areas.

“The time has passed for the politics of handouts, the politics of one size fits all,” Hogan said.

According to him, his manifesto contains specific commitments for Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South, alongside mechanisms through which constituents can hold him accountable if elected.

Hogan said his legislative priorities would include development and justice in Akpabuyo, resettlement and the welfare of displaced residents in Bakassi, while flooding, security, equitable markets and youth opportunities would receive attention in Calabar South.

He said his interventions would be pursued through legislation, advocacy and constituency development, rather than the distribution of temporary relief materials.

“My word is that I am ready to serve. And this time, it’s not business as usual,” he said.

“You can expect a representation that works for everyone, and not for a particular clique of people.”

Representing the NDC State Chairman, Godwin Akpala, at the event, Dr. Ntete Duke endorsed Hogan’s candidacy and urged party members to support him ahead of the 2027 elections.

He lamented what he described as years of neglect of Akpabuyo, saying the constituency needed purposeful representation.

“Akpabuyo has been neglected for some time. This is our time. I ask all the Akpabuyo people who are here to go back and tell our people that we have a very bright candidate,” he said.

He also warned other aspirants against presenting themselves as the party’s candidate for the constituency, saying Hogan remained the NDC candidate.

“Iniobong Hogan is our candidate for the House of Representatives. Any other person who is promoting himself is an impostor,” Duke said.

Also speaking, the NDC Deputy Governorship Candidate, Stella Archibong, called for unity and purposeful leadership, urging voters to reject politics driven by temporary financial inducements.

She urged residents of Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South to support candidates committed to meaningful development and accountable representation.