BENUE SOUTH LEGISLATORS: FALLEN GUARDIANS OF A ONCE-GREAT LEGACY
By Morgan Adikwu
In the golden era of Nigeria’s First Republic, Benue South stood tall, its capital Otukpo—popularly known as “Texas”—a hub of progress and pride. The founding fathers of the Idoma Nation, such as J.C. Obande, Abutu Obekpa, Col. Anthony Ochefu, Amb. Edward Ogbuyanga, Andrew Obeya, Vincent Ukwu, Justice A.P Anyebe, Dr. Edwin Idoko, Ogwiji Ikongbe, Ebije Ikwue, Amb. Ogah Okwoche, Ekah Onoja, Adeyi Ameh, Augustine Alechenu, Odeh Attah, Sen Godwin Okpe, etc., laid a foundation for collective growth and national relevance. Their vision extended far beyond infrastructure; it encompassed education, healthcare, and a legacy of integrity and service that elevated the Idoma people onto the world stage.
Today, the stark contrast between this golden past and the present reality across Benue South is a painful reminder of leadership failures. The region is marred by decayed infrastructure, poverty, and a lack of vision, all fueled by self-serving representatives who have shirked their responsibility to uphold the Idoma legacy. The decline of Otukpo, once a symbol of pride, mirrors the stagnation and regression of the entire Benue South district.
While Otukpo’s crumbling roads, broken pipe-borne water systems, and increasing unemployment encapsulate the neglect, the decay spreads across the nine local government areas of Benue South. Apa, Agatu, Obi, Oju, Otukpo, Ogbadibo, and others suffer the same fate—dilapidated schools, under-resourced healthcare facilities, and untapped agricultural potential. The neglect of these areas by successive representatives is a glaring indictment of leadership failures.
The current crop of legislators from Benue South falls woefully short of the ideals of the early patriots. Unlike their predecessors, who worked tirelessly to position Idoma on the national map, today’s representatives are defined by mediocrity, personal aggrandizement, and a lack of vision.
Senator Abba Moro’s tenure has been criticized for lacking transformative projects at the federal level, resulting in subpar infrastructure and social services in his region. Specifically, his tenure has been marked by inadequate interventions in crucial sectors such as agriculture, youth empowerment, regional development, industrial processing, and cottage industries.
The absence of meaningful investments in these sectors has stifled the region’s potential for economic growth and job creation. The neglect of cottage industries has meant missed opportunities for entrepreneurship, employment, and local economic development. Overall, Senator Moro’s failure to champion transformative projects has left his region in a dismal state, underscoring the need for more effective representation.
While Hon. Pastor, Chief Ojotu Ojema (Apa/Agatu) has shown limited engagement with his constituency. Apa and Agatu remain plagued by basic challenges, from poor roads to unemployment, with little effort to attract development initiatives. Hon. David Ogewu (Oju/Obi) has similarly been absent where it matters most. The pressing needs of his constituency—healthcare, education, and economic opportunities—remain unaddressed.
Hon. Blessing Onuh (Otukpo/Ohimini) has focused on short-term empowerment schemes that barely scratch the surface of the systemic challenges facing her constituents. Motorcycles and tricycles do little to alleviate deep-rooted poverty. Though ,Hon. Philip Agbese (Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo) stands out slightly for attempting to engage his constituency, but his efforts lack the scale and ambition to uplift the entire Benue South district.
State Assembly Members represent the lowest ebb of leadership. Their failure to challenge the marginalization of Benue South at the state level or advocate for the region’s interests is a betrayal of their mandate. Their inaction and complacency contribute significantly to the region’s decline.
The founding fathers of Benue South were not merely politicians; they were statesmen who embodied integrity and selflessness. They worked with a vision that sought to benefit all Idoma people. In contrast, today’s leaders have turned their positions into avenues for personal enrichment, leaving their constituents to languish in poverty and neglect. The electorate must recognize this betrayal and demand accountability from all representatives.
As political consultations begin for 2027, the people of Benue South must take a stand and demand more from their future leaders. It’s essential to scrutinize the antecedents of aspirants and demand clarity on their vision for the region. This includes ensuring that legislators prioritize the equitable distribution of resources and projects at both state and federal levels.
To achieve this, future leaders must focus on key areas such as roads, industrialization, schools, healthcare, and agriculture. These sectors should become priorities, with long-term strategies in place to address pressing issues like unemployment, youth restiveness, moral decadence and poverty. Moreover, representatives must work collectively, setting aside personal interests for the greater good. This unity and collective action will be crucial in advocating for the region’s development.
Ultimately, constituents must insist on accountability and transparency from their leaders. This can be achieved through regular town halls, progress reports, and evidence of impact. By demanding more from their leaders and holding them accountable, the people of Benue South can ensure that their region receives the attention and development it deserves.
Benue South cannot afford another cycle of failed representation. The legacy of the founding fathers calls for leaders who will restore the dignity, pride, and progress of the region. As consultations for 2027 begin, the people must demand a break from mediocrity and elect leaders who will embody the values of service, vision, and selflessness. The time to act is now.
