By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central Senatorial District, has thrown his political weight behind sweeping electoral reforms, the creation of state police, and stronger international security partnerships, declaring that Nigeria cannot afford hesitation in the face of mounting insecurity.
In a no-holds-barred interaction with journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Sen Ikpea defended the National Assembly’s controversial amendments to the Electoral Act and insisted that the country must adopt pragmatic solutions, both at home and abroad to confront evolving security threats.
Electoral Act: “No Credible System Operates Without Backup”
Amid heated national debate over the amendment allowing both electronic transmission and manual backup of election results, Sen Ikpea stood firm, arguing that redundancy is not regression but responsibility.
While electronic transmission enhances transparency, he said, it is not immune to cyber threats, technical glitches, or connectivity failures especially in remote communities.
“No credible system operates without a backup,” Ikpea declared. “The dual approach guarantees inclusivity for areas with poor network coverage and protects the integrity of the process in case of disruption.”
According to him, the Senate’s decision was guided by realism, not politics, and reflects Nigeria’s technological and infrastructural realities.
On the nation’s fragile security landscape, the Edo Lawmaker called for a blend of domestic reforms and responsible global cooperation.
He commended the Federal Government for strengthening security ties with the United States, noting that even world powers depend on alliances during crises.
Drawing parallels with the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Sen. Ikpea argued that international realities show no nation fights unconventional threats alone.
“Strategic partnerships are not weakness; they are wisdom,” he stressed, adding that Nigeria must not hesitate to seek support where necessary.
He was also emphatic that extremist elements hiding under religious banners do not represent the peaceful majority of Nigerian Muslims, warning against weaponizing religion to justify criminality.
In one of his strongest positions yet on constitutional reform, Sen. Ikpea openly backed the establishment of state police, describing centralized policing as overstretched in the face of modern security challenges.
He argued that localized security structures would improve intelligence gathering, enhance community trust, and ensure faster response to threats.
Security, he maintained, must be community-driven if it is to be effective.
Turning to constituency matters, Sen. Ikpea addressed the persistent erosion and ecological degradation ravaging parts of Edo Central.
He acknowledged that motions had previously been raised but assured constituents that more aggressive follow-up with relevant federal agencies is now underway.
He expressed confidence that coordinated engagement between lawmakers and federal institutions would produce tangible results.
With political campaigns looming, Ikpea dismissed fears that electioneering would derail legislative work.
According to him, the National Assembly remains capable of reconvening at any time to address urgent national matters.
Governance, he insisted, remains paramount.
The Senator concluded with a call for national patience and unity, noting that rebuilding institutions, stabilizing the economy, and strengthening security structures require sustained commitment.
For Sen. Ikpea, the message was clear: reform is not optional, it is urgent.
And on state police, electoral safeguards, and global alliances, he has drawn his line in the sand.
