The Nigerian House of Representatives has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently restore three suppressed State Constituencies in Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo Local Government Areas of Benue State, following a motion moved by Hon. Philip Agbese, the Member representing the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency. The House also directed INEC to conduct elections into the restored constituencies by 2027. The motion, seconded by Kelechi Nwogu of Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency in Rivers State, was passed unanimously during plenary on Tuesday, under the leadership of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
Agbese, who also serves as Deputy Spokesperson of the House, highlighted that historically, each of the three LGAs had two distinct State Constituencies before INEC’s delimitation exercises reduced their representation. He noted that Ado had Ado State Constituency 1 and 2, Ogbadibo had Ogbadibo and Otukpa State Constituencies, and Okpokwu had Okpokwu State Constituency 1 and 2. These arrangements reflected the significant landmass, population, number of wards, and cultural identities of the Idoma-speaking communities in the region.
The lawmaker expressed concern that the suppression of three out of the six constituencies has left each LGA with only one State Constituency, forcing large populations and vast territories to be represented by a single member in the Benue State House of Assembly. He argued that this has led to gross under-representation, inadequate legislative voice, and inequitable access to developmental projects, resources, and state attention. Agbese emphasized that the current arrangement violates the principles of federalism, justice, equity, and fair representation.
He further stated that the suppression has caused widespread agitation among constituents, who feel marginalized despite the developmental needs of the three LGAs. Agbese called for the restoration of Ado II, Okpokwu II, and Otukpa State Constituency in Ogbadibo LGA, bringing the total back to six constituencies as existed historically. He stressed that this move is essential to correct past injustices, align with demographic realities, and strengthen democratic representation in Benue State.
In response, the House mandated the Committee on INEC to engage with INEC, the Benue State Government, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure immediate restoration and operationalization of the constituencies. The directive underscores the legislative body’s commitment to fair electoral representation and democratic accountability. The decision also builds on previous resolutions passed by the House concerning the restoration of Ukum II, Gboko, and Nyamatsor State Constituencies in Benue.
With the 2027 election timeline set, the restoration of these constituencies is expected to enhance political inclusivity and developmental equity in the region. The move is seen as a step toward addressing long-standing grievances and ensuring that every Nigerian community has a fair voice in governance.
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