Mark Idum ADC House of Reps bid begins as ex-footballer joins 2027 race for Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency under ADC platform
Former footballer Mark Idum, a Nigerian-born ex-sporting professional currently based in the United States, has declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in Cross River State, Nigeria, under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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The ambition was formally announced on Thursday following what he described as extensive consultations with political stakeholders, community leaders, and residents across the constituency.
Mark Idum said the encouragement received during the consultations strengthened his resolve to join the race, adding that his decision was driven by a commitment to public service and grassroots development in Ogoja/Yala.
Idum, who gained prominence as a footballer during the 1990s and early 2000s, said his aspiration is anchored on delivering practical and measurable development outcomes for his constituency.
He pledged to prioritise key sectors including healthcare, education, infrastructure, agriculture, power supply, and water access if elected into office.
On healthcare, the former footballer promised to support the upgrade of primary health centres, facilitate medical outreach programmes, and attract federal health projects to underserved communities.
He also stated that improved road infrastructure would be a central focus, describing road connectivity as essential for trade, mobility, and economic growth across rural areas.
Education reforms were also highlighted, with Idum promising to support school renovation, provision of learning materials, and advocacy for increased federal education interventions in the constituency.
The candidate further emphasised plans to support rural electrification and clean water access projects to improve living standards in local communities.
He stressed that his leadership approach would be inclusive, accountable, and people-driven, with continuous engagement at the grassroots level.
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Idum added that effective representation requires presence and responsiveness, noting that he intends to ensure constituents’ voices are strongly reflected in national legislative decisions.
