Stephen Okpako Ikade from Wanihem, North Ukelle in Yala local government area of Cross River State is a Geologist, Social Entrepreneur, politician and businessman, widely recognized for his contributions in various capacities. Stephen has a strong academic background, having studied Geology at the University of Calabar, Calabar. He obtained his West Africa Senior School Certificate in Federal Science, College Ogoja, Cross River State.
He has a first-rate interpersonal relationship style and an artistic communication skill. He is known to be an unrelenting and passionate personality who does not hide his stance when it comes to issues, especially as it pertains to the masses. His dedication to learning and his profound sense of responsibility and integrity are just enormous.
Okpako has been actively involved in Nigerian politics and business. He has held several political positions. His active engagement in politics and his cerebral nature on social and political issues have made him a well-known figure. He is also known for his active presence in political gatherings where he shares his views on contemporary issues and engages with the public. His forthright opinions have garnered him cheers, support and making him prominent in our political discourse.
Okpako is the Legislative Aide to Distinguished, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe representing the good people of Cross River Northern Senatorial district. He was before now the Legislative Assistant to Rt. Hon Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe when he was a Member of the House of Representatives representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the 8th Assembly. Where he serves as the Chairman of Cross River State Legislative Aide forum and Ad-hoc Committee member of the finance Committee of National Association of legislative Aides forum.
He was also a member, Student Welfare Scheme Board, University of Calabar in 2005. He did his National Youth Service Corps as a teacher in Government secondary school Ebako, Kogi state in 2007/2008. He further attended the National Water Resource Institute Mando, Kaduna State on scholarship under the sponsorship of Cross River State Government in 2011.
Stephen has a philosophy that in service accountability, trust, transparency, accessibility are key that is why he’s in politics and believes with sincerity in humanity, that is why he will always go out of his way to enhance the lots of people around him. Service to him too is sacrifice and as such he gives back to the society when ever opportunity avails itself.
Stephen Okpako is a rare gem in our sociopolitical parlance, business and beyond. He has had a robust and illustrious career as a Legislative Aide in the National Assembly spanning several years and his dedication to improving the lives of the people is commendable. Despite his not being in any elected position, he remains a fascinating and influential figure in the society, and his impact on our political and economic landscape cannot be ignored.
He is always passionate about societal growth and development and from the very day he got involved in active politics , decided to creditably distinguished himself by carving a niche for himself. Through dint of hard work, personal conviction to succeed, and visionary doggedness, he has been in active politics and a card carrying member of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP). By reason of Stephen Okpako’s ‘think home’ mentality, burning desire to create jobs, empower the youths and bring the needed development to Yala LGA, he has decided to vie as Yala Council Chairman. And by the grace of God, he is the consensus candidate for Yala Chairmanship forthcoming council elections.
A man of a immense humble background, amiable, likeable and good -natured personality, Mr Stephen Okpako Ikade is happily married with two wonderful kids and he balances his personal life with his political engagements actively.