By Ochokwunu Daniel
In a significant political development, the Apa and Agatu local governments in Benue State are collaborating to advocate for the Apa-Agatu federal constituency to have its next representative in the House of Representatives come 2027. The two local governments are rallying behind the argument that it is Apa’s turn to lead, stressing that Agatu has dominated representation for nearly two decades.
As of 2027, Agatu will have seen a continuous representation span of 20 years, a period that has included notable figures such as the late Hon. Solomon Agidani, Hon. Samuel Odagboyi Godday, and the current member, Chief Dr. Pastor Ojotu Ojema. In contrast, Apa, which is recognized for its substantial political presence and comprises the third largest political wards in the constituency, will have only had eight years of representation by that time.
Local leaders from Apa assert that this upcoming election cycle presents a critical opportunity to reclaim political power. They are bolstered by the backing of influential figures across various sectors, united in their call for change.
Prominent social rights activist Comrade Paul Edoh Jr. is reportedly mobilizing efforts to address Apa’s perceived marginalization and social development imbalance. He is organizing a think tank gathering in Abuja where community leaders and elders will brainstorm on strategies to champion a development blueprint aimed at propelling Apa’s interests. Though the specific date and venue for the event remain undisclosed, it is expected to attract key figures, including the Member representing Apa state constituency in the Benue Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abu Umoru, Benue state’s Governor’s aid and senior legal aid to Distinguished Senator Abba Moro, Senator representing Benue zone C at the 10th Senate, a Director in ICPC as well as aspiring candidates from major political parties including the APC, PDP, and ADC.
Despite criticism for choosing Abuja as the event’s location instead of Benue State, the organizing committee, the Apa Youths Arise movement insists that the decision serves the program’s objectives better. They emphasize the need for an intellectual and strategic discourse to educate voters leading up to the election.
While Edoh’s event solidifies its influence, dissenting voices do exist. Comrade Isaiah Adanu, a long time associate of Edoh Jr and former schoolmate of the sitting lawmaker, has announced an alternative gathering at Caecer Gate Hotel Abuja aimed at addressing similar themes of marginalization, targeting a select group of youths from Apa.
As the political climate heats up, all eyes are on how these factions will position themselves, ahead of the upcoming federal elections. The unity of Apa’s voices may redefine the constituency’s political landscape, setting the stage for a potentially riveting election season in 2027.
Stay tuned as developments unfold in this crucial political endeavor.