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The Igede-speaking communities of Oju and Obi Local Government Areas in Benue State appear to be largely absent from the emerging contest for the 2027 Benue South Senatorial seat, despite decades of voiced grievances over political marginalisation within the zone.
Since the return of democracy in 1999, the Benue South Senate seat has been consistently dominated by Idoma politicians. No Igede aspirant has successfully secured the position, and the last time an Igede indigene held the office of Deputy Governor was under Prince Ogiri Ajene, who left office in 2007. The prolonged exclusion has continued to fuel persistent calls for equitable representation and power-sharing in the southern senatorial district.
While the Idoma bloc already features more than 15 active aspirants openly pursuing the Senate seat and other key positions, only one name has so far emerged from the Igede axis: Hon. Harmony Ogbor. However, awareness of his candidacy remains limited, and mobilisation efforts appear subdued compared to the intense activity on the Idoma side.
Political analysts in Otukpo have described the current situation as “a strategic puzzle.” One commentator noted: “If a group believes it has been marginalised, the logical response would be strong participation. Yet, the Igede elite remain largely silent on the Senate race.” Stakeholders point to several contributing factors, including financial constraints, internal divisions, the absence of a consensus candidate, and the daunting challenge of unseating established figures such as the incumbent Senator Abba Moro.
Youth groups within the Igede communities have begun raising alarms, warning that continued absence from major electoral contests could further weaken their bargaining power in future zoning negotiations. “If you don’t sit at the table, decisions will be made without you,” one youth advocate stated.
Meanwhile, political interest has shifted noticeably toward the Oju/Obi Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat, where several aspirants are mobilising to challenge the incumbent, Hon. David Agada. Observers note that the House race requires less funding and fewer broad alliances than the district-wide Senate contest, making it more accessible and attractive to emerging contenders.
Although party primaries are still months away, the delayed mobilisation from the Igede axis has raised questions about whether the community will eventually assert itself in the 2027 senatorial race or continue to remain on the sidelines. The outcome could significantly influence long-term power dynamics and representation in Benue South.
