Ambassador Engr. Tonbra Joseph Inegbegha has obtained the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form to contest for the Southern Ijaw Constituency I seat, signaling his formal entry into the upcoming legislative race. His declaration places him among the aspirants seeking to represent the constituency, with a campaign message centered on leadership, youth empowerment, and community development.
Inegbegha, a businessman and entrepreneur, is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Astro Soft Group. The company is reported to have created employment opportunities for more than 1,000 young people, contributing to local economic activity and addressing youth unemployment in the region.
His candidacy is being framed around his experience in managing business operations and resources. Supporters point to his background as evidence of his capacity to oversee constituency projects and public funds responsibly if elected into office.
Beyond his business ventures, Inegbegha has been involved in youth advocacy initiatives. He previously served as a Youth Ambassador for Peace and Anti-Corruption under the West African Youth Council, part of the ECOWAS Youth Ambassador platform. In that role, he participated in programs promoting transparency, civic responsibility, and regional cooperation among young people.
He has also received recognition for leadership and integrity, including the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity. These accolades are being highlighted by his campaign as indicators of his commitment to ethical leadership and public service.
Central to his campaign message is youth empowerment. Inegbegha has emphasized the importance of skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and job creation as tools for reducing poverty and social instability. His platform includes plans to expand opportunities for young people through training programs and support for small businesses.
Community development is another key focus of his agenda. He has expressed interest in initiating projects that improve living standards, infrastructure, and access to basic services within Southern Ijaw Constituency I. His approach prioritizes practical interventions aimed at addressing everyday challenges faced by residents.
In addition, Inegbegha has underscored the need to support elderly citizens. He has advocated for policies and programs that ensure the welfare and dignity of older members of society, arguing that they should not be overlooked in development efforts.
Political observers note that his entry into the race reflects a broader trend of professionals and entrepreneurs seeking elective office, bringing private sector experience into public governance. His campaign positions him as a candidate offering what he describes as results-driven leadership.
Supporters argue that his track record in business and community engagement distinguishes him from other aspirants. They maintain that his experience could translate into effective representation and tangible outcomes for constituents.
The Southern Ijaw Constituency I seat is expected to be competitive, with multiple candidates vying for the APC ticket and eventual electoral victory. As the political process unfolds, voters in the constituency will assess candidates based on their credentials, vision, and ability to address local needs.
Inegbegha’s campaign continues to emphasize accountability, youth inclusion, and sustainable development as core pillars. His message highlights the importance of leadership that delivers measurable impact and responds to the concerns of ordinary citizens.
With the nomination form secured, the next phase of his political journey will involve engaging party stakeholders and constituents ahead of the primaries. The outcome will determine whether he emerges as the APC flagbearer for Southern Ijaw Constituency I.