Fidelis Duker, filmmaker, broadcaster, media entrepreneur and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South Federal Constituency, has unveiled what he describes as a listening-driven legislative agenda, promising more responsive representation and stronger engagement with constituents ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking during a media parley in Calabar, Duker said meaningful representation begins with understanding the concerns of communities before pursuing legislative action in the National Assembly.
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The event forms part of his early campaign activities as political parties gradually intensify preparations for the next electoral cycle.
The agenda is built around three themes that Duker identified as Listening Deeply, Representing Fairly and Delivering Boldly.
The candidate said the approach would prioritise consultation with residents across Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South before policy decisions and advocacy efforts are undertaken.
“You have spoken. I am ready to deliver your message,” Duker said.
He added: “Our people deserve a representative who listens before speaking, consults before acting and delivers with integrity. Representation must be measured by impact, not promises.”
Duker said the coastal constituency possesses significant maritime, tourism and commercial opportunities that require strategic legislation and sustained federal attention to unlock long-term development.
He pledged to advocate policies supporting youth empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure and greater economic inclusion, while strengthening representation for coastal and riverine communities.
The media engagement also highlighted Duker’s transition from the creative industry into elective politics.
Widely known as the founder of the Abuja International Film Festival and Regional Secretary General of the Federation of Pan African Filmmakers, Duker formally declared his House of Representatives ambition earlier this year after obtaining his party’s nomination forms under the NDC platform.
His campaign has consistently presented his international experience and media background as assets for legislative service.
A notable feature of the event was Duker’s emphasis on continuous dialogue with constituents rather than one-off campaign engagements.
Political observers say the approach reflects growing public expectations for elected representatives to maintain regular consultation and accountability beyond election periods, although voters will ultimately judge candidates on both campaign promises and future performance.
The Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South Federal Constituency is currently represented by Joseph Bassey of the All Progressives Congress, with political competition expected to intensify as parties prepare for the 2027 polls.
While Duker’s campaign has centred on responsive leadership and grassroots engagement, his emergence also adds another high-profile figure from Nigeria’s creative industry to the country’s evolving political landscape.
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Analysts note that personalities entering politics from outside traditional political structures increasingly face the dual challenge of translating public recognition into electoral support and demonstrating practical policy credibility.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
