**Decisions of the Benefited Few: Not the Conclusion of All**
In light of the recent political developments concerning Hon. Ojema Ojotu, we must critically examine the motivations behind his apparent shift from his original commitment to serve a single term. This change is particularly disheartening coming from a man of faith who has publicly espoused moral integrity and accountability. It raises an important question: why does a pastor, revered for his ethical teachings, now yield to the pressures from a select group within his party?
As residents of Apa/Agatu in Benue State, we must recognize that the encouragement he receives from party loyalists does not encapsulate the sentiments of our entire community. Even the allure of material incentives, such as the distribution of tricycles, will not sway those among us who prioritize integrity and envision a brighter future for our children and grandchildren.
While Hon. Ojotu is entitled to pursue a second term, we expect him to uphold the standards of integrity and accountability that come with his dual roles as both a leader and a pastor. Transparent representation is essential, particularly when our voices, as constituents, need to be heard and respected. The wisdom of our community leaders and elders should guide our political decisions, rather than being relegated to mere party politics.
Our constituency is rich in potential, brimming with intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and experienced politicians. Yet, we still grapple with extreme poverty, inadequate access to clean water, unreliable electricity, poor primary healthcare, and a low life expectancy—issues that too often go unaddressed by those in positions of power. We can no longer afford to remain silent in the face of these injustices, fearing to upset the political class. Inaction will only render us accountable in the eyes of future generations, who will bear the burden of our silence.
The ineffective representation we have experienced over the years has compounded our challenges. A crucial understanding exists regarding the political representation between our two local government areas (LGAs), which holds that each LGA would alternate in producing representatives for two-term spans. Unfortunately, this agreement is regularly overlooked when it suits those pursuing power, fostering division and disenfranchisement among the electorate.
It is imperative that we unify in our commitment to uphold this agreement and challenge any attempts to disregard our rights. Every qualified individual should have the opportunity to seek candidacy without being undermined by decisions made by a privileged few. We must remind our leaders of their commitments to the citizens of Apa and Agatu, particularly the personal promises made by Hon. Ojema Ojotu to our elders.
As we navigate the future, we must pledge to hold our representatives accountable, ensuring our voices resonate within our governance structures, and defending our right to fair and equitable treatment. The neglect and exploitation of our communities must cease. We must advocate for genuine representation and honor the integrity of our democratic processes, ensuring that our struggles yield fruitful outcomes for generations to come. If we are to prevent future political crises, we must reaffirm our commitment to accountability, collectively demanding that decisions affecting the many not be dictated by a privileged few.
To Hon. Ojema Ojotu, I pose this critical question: Are you truly seeking divine guidance, at all, for you once said; ” of God had not ask you to contest, you won’t contest” have you been swayed by the voices of those who received material benefits from you, when has their voices becomes the voice of God that made you accept their decisions for you to contest ?, knowing fully well that you have just one tenure, completing Agatu’s 20th years. As a pastor, we hope for your decisions to remain grounded in spiritual reflection, not merely in the transient joy bestowed upon you by a few beneficiaries.
I remain your sincere brother,
Comrade Paul G Edoh Jr.