*Benue Rep Member on Hot Seat: Over Image Maker’s Comments*
The office of the Honourable Member representing the people of Apa-Agatu Federal Constituency is facing scrutiny following a controversial article attributed to a legislative assistant, Mr. Olikita Ekani. Critics have expressed disappointment over what they deem a poorly constructed and misguided communication, questioning the professionalism and competence within the office of the Honourable member.
In a recent turn of events, constituents of the Apa-Agatu Federal Constituency have voiced their concerns regarding the inability of their House of Representatives member to address the alarming security challenges plaguing the community. Multiple write-ups by Benue, Apa social rights activist and journalist Paul Edoh have highlighted the ongoing issues, leading to a critical reply from the office of the Honourable member, through his legislative aid, Mr. Olikita Ekani.
In Ekani’s response to Edoh’s article titled “A CALL; ADDRESSING THE SILENCE ON INSECURITY IN APA-AGATU, BENUE STATE,” he characterized the piece as “balderdash,” accusing Edoh of engaging in a “campaign of calumny” against the Honourable member, Chief Hon. Pst. Ojotu Ojema FESMI, who also serves as Chairman of the House Committee on National Inland Waterways. Ekani’s derogatory remarks included, “This is reminiscent of a man making mockery of his parents over the loss of his siblings.”
Continuing in this vein, Ekani suggested that Edoh should focus his energy on raising awareness about the community’s security challenges to attract attention from the state and federal governments, rather than criticizing the Honourable member. He went further to imply that Edoh should seek more stable employment, indicating that his current endeavors might reflect poorly on his capabilities.
The reaction among constituents has been overwhelmingly critical, with many expressing concern over their representative’s office dragging a community activist into personal attacks instead of addressing the substantive issues at hand. Comments circulating in local social media and WhatsApp groups reflect a growing frustration with the Honourable member’s lack of responsiveness to pressing community needs.
Elaigwu Matthew, an Abuja based lawyer interviewed by our team, condemned the Honourable member for surrounding himself with individuals who fail to recognize constructive criticism. He cited Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech, and noted the relevance of international charters that support this right. Matthew also pointed to sections of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention.) Act, which addresses cyberbullying, arguing that Ekani’s insults towards Edoh may constitute such behavior.
As public sentiment continues to mount against the Honourable member and his office, many constituents are calling for a more accountable and responsive representation that prioritizes the safety and welfare of the people in the Apa-Agatu Federal Constituency.
Edoh in reaction to the media outburst state that, he has made sincere efforts to draw the Honourable’s members attention to critical areas in the comstituency that needs him to draw the Federal government attention, but regretted that to have meet hitted insults and name calling for expressing community’s need.
” I have made sincere efforts to engage with the office of the lawmaker over the past two weeks, seeking constructive dialogue and clarification on pertinent issues. Unfortunately, it is greatful that no substantial response has been forthcoming.”
Edoh further states that;
” In the interest of transparency, accountability, and respectful communication with the constituents, I hope that moving forward, the office will prioritize constructive engagement and upholding the dignity expected of their position.”
In addition to his reply, Edoh further tongue lashed Olikita Ekani, rated him as ” unprofessional image maker that, migrated from Guma federal constituency, hence his negligence over pertinent issues, which proves his lack of concern for the plight of the Apa-Agatu.
In Olikita’s write up to Comrade Edoh’s Article; calling on Honourable Ojotu Ojema to Address the attacks on Akpete ward in Apa local government by marauding herdsmen and bring the case of late. Owoicho a Constituent member that was brutalized and killed by personnel of the Nigerian army.
Before the house upon resumption from its recess in recent days.
Olikita however assured Edoh in his write up that; the Honourable member who is far away in the United States of America will have all this presented once he returns back.
Our leaders are far from us at this critical period which is very unfortunate for them to leave us for enemies to eliminate us, my question is that, who’ll vote them if they killed all of us in the constituency?