Mr Obinna Simon, popularly known as MC Tagwaye, has officially declared his intention to contest for the chairmanship of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in the 2026 election on the platform of Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Simon disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja on Wednesday, highlighting his commitment to transforming the local government and addressing long-standing issues.
He promised more inclusive, progressive and sustainable AMAC, if elected as the council’s next chairman.
“My vision for AMAC is one of progress, inclusivity and sustainable development.
“I am driven by a profound conviction that I can catalyse transformative changes in AMAC by championing causes that uplift marginalized communities and advocate for policies that tackle our most pressing challenges,” he said.
While recalling his background as an educator with over eight years of teaching experience, MC Tagwaye announced his plans to prioritise education in AMAC.
“The first thing I will do as chairman is declare a state of emergency in education.
“Our children deserve quality education that prepares them to compete nationally and globally,” he said.
While evaluating the current AMAC administration, MC Tagwaye said: “My rating for the current administration is very low.
“Over 70 per cent of residents in AMAC do not even know who the chairman is, which reflects a leadership absence from the community.
“I personally visited all the 12 wards of AMAC, and there is a stark picture of neglect and poor infrastructure.
“There are places where vehicles can’t even reach. The roads are terribly bad. In a community in Sauka, a school which my foundation visited, teachers and students often have to use neighbouring homes or even the bush as toilets.
“This is in the FCT, just on the way to the airport,” he said.
The chairmanship hopeful called on residents of the council area to support his aspiration, saying that they should work together for a brighter future.
“I ask for your support, your vote and your prayers. Together, we can make a difference,” he said.
He expressed deep satisfaction with SDP, describing the party’s support as “tremendous” and as one free from internal crises plaguing other political parties.
“I have no regret joining SDP. The way they have treated me and my aspirations has been extremely wonderful. I encourage a lot of people to come to SDP,” he said.
He criticised the current AMAC chairman’s recent defection to another party, describing it as a sign of lack of direction and commitment to the people.
“At my age, I should leave legacies. That is why I’m coming to bring new ideas, experience and education to the table,” he said.
MC Tagwaye’s Campaign Director-General, Malam Abubakar Bello, described the event as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward effective leadership and grassroots development.
Bello explained that Nigeria’s leadership had historically been centered around national figures like presidents and ministers, while local governance often remained neglected.
“Local governance in Nigeria, including AMAC, lacks essential services, while education is under-funded and poorly managed.
“Schools lack proper infrastructure, with children still sitting on bare floors, deprived of seats and learning materials.
“This stark reality underscores the urgent need for grassroots leadership that can bring tangible change from the ground up,” he said.
Bello urged Nigerians to support the new leadership, emphasising that Nigeria’s future depends on collective efforts, resource allocation and unwavering support for leaders who genuinely serve the people.
