A beneficiary of an empowerment programme facilitated by Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, Member representing Isoko North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has publicly testified to the transparency, fairness, and people-centred approach of the lawmaker’s intervention, describing it as a rare example of genuine service in public office.
Mr. Eloho Idoro, a resident of Emevor in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, shared his experience in a detailed Facebook post published on January 25, 2026. Idoro recounted his initial skepticism toward the business expansion empowerment scheme rolled out by Ukodhiko last year. Like many citizens accustomed to reports of politically motivated or favoritism-driven programmes, he doubted whether the initiative would truly reach ordinary people without strings attached.
“Initially, I was very skeptical about the whole thing,” Idoro wrote. “I thought it was one of those programmes where only those with political connections or who could ‘settle’ someone would benefit. But I decided to take a chance, prepared a business plan, and submitted it reluctantly.”
To his surprise, the selection process proved rigorous and merit-based. Idoro’s application was shortlisted after a thorough review, and he was invited for a physical interview where he defended his business proposal before a panel. “To the glory of God, I emerged as one of the 18 beneficiaries of the ₦500,000 empowerment grant, without any form of political influence, godfatherism, or payment of any kind,” he stated.
The grant, part of Ukodhiko’s constituency empowerment programme, was disbursed directly to support small and medium-scale businesses, with beneficiaries required to present viable plans demonstrating potential for growth, job creation, and community impact. Idoro described the experience as transformative, fundamentally altering his view of governance and leadership in Nigeria.
“That singular act made me understand that there is still hope for the common man in the corridors of power,” he wrote. “Hon. Ukodhiko has shown that integrity, fairness, and transparency are still possible in public office. He listens to the cries of his people and responds decisively without compromise.”
Idoro commended both the lawmaker and the Jonathan Ukodhiko Foundation for prioritizing genuine empowerment over political patronage. He highlighted the structured, open process—application submission, shortlisting, interviews, and direct disbursement—as evidence of accountability and a commitment to uplifting constituents rather than rewarding loyalists.
The testimony has resonated widely on social media platforms in Delta State, where discussions about political empowerment schemes often center on allegations of favoritism and exclusion. Idoro’s account stands out as a rare positive endorsement from a grassroots beneficiary, reinforcing Ukodhiko’s reputation for constituency-focused service since his election in 2023.
Since assuming office, Hon. Ukodhiko has implemented a series of empowerment initiatives, constituency projects, and interventions aimed at improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities in Isoko North and South. These include grants for small businesses, skills acquisition programmes, agricultural support, youth and women empowerment schemes, and infrastructure projects such as road rehabilitation, borehole installations, and school renovations. The lawmaker has consistently emphasized merit-based distribution and direct impact on ordinary citizens.
Idoro concluded his post by pledging continued support for Ukodhiko’s principles, programmes, and vision for the Isoko nation. He expressed confidence in the lawmaker’s leadership and openly endorsed his aspiration for re-election in the 2027 general elections. “I will continue to support Hon. Ukodhiko’s vision because he has proven that he truly cares about the people,” Idoro wrote. “The future of Isoko is brighter under leaders who put service above self.”
The empowerment programme has been praised by other beneficiaries and community leaders in Isoko for its inclusiveness and transparency. Local stakeholders note that the initiative has helped small entrepreneurs expand operations, create jobs, and contribute to local economies in communities often overlooked by larger development efforts.
Hon. Ukodhiko, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has positioned himself as a voice for grassroots development and accountability in the National Assembly. His focus on direct constituency engagement has earned him growing support in Isoko North and South, where voters have historically valued representatives who deliver tangible benefits.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, testimonies like Idoro’s highlight the importance of perceived integrity and people-oriented governance in shaping public opinion. For many in Delta State, such accounts serve as evidence that effective representation remains possible, offering hope amid widespread cynicism about political leadership.
The Jonathan Ukodhiko Foundation continues to collaborate with community groups to identify beneficiaries and monitor the impact of empowerment grants, ensuring accountability and sustainability. Idoro’s story, shared publicly on social media, has become a rallying point for those advocating for merit-driven interventions in Nigeria’s political landscape.
