House of Representatives Member Urged to Address Security Concerns in Apa-Agatu, Benue State
As the Nigerian House of Representatives reconvened last week following a recess, constituents from Apa-Agatu, Benue State, are increasingly voicing their frustration over the absence of their representative, Honourable Ojotu Ojema, amid ongoing security challenges and recent tragic incidents in the Constituency.
Despite previous assurances from his aides regarding active engagement on pressing community issues, community members report that critical matters, including the recent killings in Akpete ward and the murder of local resident Ernest Owoicho, remain unaddressed. Owoicho’s death, allegedly at the hands of Nigerian Army personnel, has sparked outrage among community members who demand accountability and safety in their locality.
Constituents are calling on Honourable Ojema to return from his trip to the United States and advocate for urgent legislative action on behalf of his constituents. “Do we still have a representative advocating for us in the House of Representatives?” questioned comrade Paul Edoh Jr, a concerned local Constituents, emphasizing the need for the issues affecting the Apa-Agatu community to be brought to the floor.
While Honourable Ojema’s aides acknowledge his past contributions, there is a growing sentiment that silence on such significant matters undermines his leadership role. “It’s critical for him to bring these pressing concerns to his peers,” said Edoh Jr, pointing out that without advocacy from their representative, vital issues may continue to be overlooked.
Honourable Blessing Onyeche Onuh, representing the Otukpo/Ohimini federal constituency, recently illustrated the importance of addressing security challenges by raising concerns about violence in her constituency. Her proactive approach has drawn attention to urgent needs, underscoring the expectation that all representatives actively represent their constituents.
The tragic case of Ernest Owoicho, who reportedly suffered torture while in Army custody before his death on April 4, has left the Apa-Agatu community demanding justice. Local voices are uniting in their call for Honourable Ojema to take a stand and ensure that the issues impacting their safety and well being do not go unheard.
As the House continues its legislative business, the pressure is mounting for the representative to engage with his colleagues on these grave matters. Edoh Jr urge Honourable Ojema to listen, reflect, and take decisive action for the welfare of the Apa-Agatu people, reinforcing the idea that accountability is a shared responsibility that necessitates robust leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.