Houston-based family physician, Dr Austin Orette, has declared his intention to contest the Delta South Senatorial seat in 2027, describing himself as the most qualified candidate to represent the district at the National Assembly.
Orette, who has over 40 years of medical practice experience, made the declaration in a statement issued on Sunday in Houston, Texas, where he currently resides.
The senatorial hopeful said his ambition was driven by a long-standing commitment to public service, stressing that serving the people had always been central to his life’s purpose.
“If not me, who? If not now, when? I will be the next Delta South Senator,” he said, expressing confidence that his academic exposure, global experience and professional background positioned him ahead of other aspirants.
He described his bid as his third attempt at the Senate seat and urged constituents to reject what he termed mediocrity in leadership by electing credible representatives.
Orette criticised what he called the culture of “king makers” in a democratic system, insisting that democracy should reflect the collective will of the people rather than the influence of a select few.
According to him, traditional rulers should remain non-partisan, adding that while he would seek their blessings, his primary support base remained the electorate.
He also warned against electoral malpractice in the 2027 general elections, condemning vote-buying and excessive campaign spending, which he said undermine genuine democratic choice.
The physician-turned-politician lamented that many elected officials treat constituents “as beggars and nuisance,” alleging that citizens are often reduced to queuing for palliatives instead of benefiting from sustainable development initiatives.
He said restoring public confidence in governance would require empowering citizens with knowledge and practical skills to overcome poverty and ignorance.
Orette expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu, stating that the President would be the best candidate to restructure Nigeria if re-elected in 2027.
He argued that Nigeria’s progress depends on significant constitutional and fiscal restructuring, including decentralisation of powers currently concentrated at the federal level.
Highlighting his legislative priorities, Orette pledged to focus on education, legal reforms, agriculture, healthcare and maternal welfare if elected.
He promised to establish a digital library to enhance access to global information, provide modern equipment and retraining opportunities for artisans, and promote vocational education to tackle unemployment.
The Delta South aspirant also vowed to push for a new constitution that, according to him, would recognise citizens as stakeholders in the Nigerian federation and promote true federalism through decentralised governance.
He maintained that his campaign would centre strictly on the Senate race, adding that meaningful change could be driven from anywhere in the world with the right vision and commitment.
