A Call for Benue Deputy Shift for the sake of Equity and Balanced Political Representation in Benue South
As discussions surrounding the 2027 political arrangements in Benue State gather momentum, it has become increasingly important to reflect on the principles of fairness, equity, inclusion, and political balance that have sustained democratic participation over the years.
If the office of the Deputy Governor is to remain within Benue South, particularly within the Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency, then justice demands that the position should be ceded to another part of the constituency rather than remaining concentrated in the same axis.
Historically, the office has been occupied by individuals from Otukpo for three different tenures. While the first eight years witnessed visible developmental dividends and appreciable political inclusion, many people believe that subsequent years have not produced commensurate benefits across the entire federal constituency. Rather than deepening unity, the concentration of political power in one area has created feelings of exclusion and disappointment among other communities.
This is not an argument against the good people of Otukpo. Their contributions to the political development of Benue State remain significant and deserve recognition. However, equity requires that every component of the federal constituency should have an opportunity to contribute at the highest level of governance.
Communities such as Ugboju, Adoka, Akpa, and other districts within Otukpo Local Government, as well as the Apa-Agatu axis, possess capable men and women who are equally qualified to occupy the office of Deputy Governor. Rotating the position to these areas would strengthen unity, promote inclusiveness, and reassure every community that political participation is not reserved for only one section.
Equally important is the need to preserve the long-established understanding regarding the House of Representatives seat for Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency. For years, there has been a rotational arrangement between Otukpo and Ohimini that has fostered relative peace and mutual respect. By every reasonable measure, Ohimini deserves the next opportunity to produce the member representing the federal constituency in the House of Representatives.
Allowing Ohimini to take its rightful turn will preserve the integrity of this rotational understanding and prevent unnecessary political tension. It demonstrates respect for agreements that have helped maintain harmony within the constituency.
The ultimate objective should not be the dominance of one locality over another but the equitable distribution of opportunities across all constituent communities. Sustainable political stability is built on inclusion, fairness, and a shared sense of belonging.
As we prepare for the future, let us embrace politics that unites rather than divides. Let the Deputy Governorship be rotated to another deserving part of the constituency—whether Ugboju, Adoka, Akpa, or even the Apa-Agatu axis—while Ohimini rightfully takes its turn at the House of Representatives. Such an arrangement would strengthen justice, reinforce political balance, and promote lasting unity throughout the federal constituency and Benue State as a whole.
