Otukpo/Ohimini 2027: I’m ready to serve – Lilian Adoyi declares for House of Reps seat

As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gather momentum, the race for the Otukpo–Ohimini Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives is increasingly tilting in favour of Ambassador Hon. Lilian Adoyi-Ofiebor, whose declaration of interest has ignited widespread conversations across the constituency.

Adoyi’s campaign has been buoyed by strong support from women’s groups and grassroots organizations across Ohimini, where she is seen as a voice for fairness, equity and accountability. Her message resonates with voters seeking leaders who prioritize inclusive development and social justice, “Let the women lead.”

Her aspiration comes at a time when zoning sentiment strongly favours Ohimini Local Government Area, following eight years of representation from Otukpo since 2019.

With the incumbent, Blessing Onuh, reportedly eyeing a historic third term, many stakeholders argue that equity, fairness, and political balance demand a shift.

Formally declaring on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adoyi-Ofiebor presented herself not merely as a politician, but as a daughter of the soil with a long-standing record of service.

“As a proud daughter of this great constituency born of Ohimini and rooted in Otukpo, I have lived amongst you, learned from you, and worked with you to better our communities,” she stated.

For many constituents, this declaration resonates because her presence predates her ambition.

“She has always been here,” a women leader in Ohimini said. “This is not election charity.”

Supporters point to her extensive humanitarian footprint through the Olohi Ga Eh Foundation, which has empowered women and girls, awarded scholarships, supported skills acquisition, and provided community health outreach.

“These are not just statistics; they are the lived realities of our people,” Adoyi-Ofiebor said while highlighting challenges such as unemployment, insecurity, poor healthcare, and gaps in education.

Her commitment to youth development is also evident in her founding of the Envoy Stars Football Academy, Abuja, which has helped young talents transition into professional sports careers locally and abroad.

In her declaration, Adoyi-Ofiebor outlined a people-centred agenda anchored on unity, empowerment, and development.

“True representation must prioritize grassroots empowerment,” she said.
“Development for Otukpo–Ohimini must be anchored in partnerships with government, the private sector, and community leaders.”

She pledged to focus on youth employment, girl-child education, healthcare access, security collaboration, and infrastructure development, including roads, water, and rural electrification.

“My aspiration is not only to be your voice in Abuja but your partner in progress,” she said.

“To build a constituency where every young person sees hope, every woman realizes her potential, and every family can thrive.”

Across Ohimini communities, her candidacy is increasingly viewed as a legitimate response to years of political imbalance.

“This is not about personalities; it is about fairness,” a senior APC stakeholder in Benue South said. “Ohimini has waited its turn.”

“Zoning has kept peace in this constituency,” a community elder remarked. “Ignoring it now will create unnecessary tension.”

Many voters have argued that while the incumbent’s service is acknowledged, leadership must rotate.

“Eight years is enough,” a civil society activist said. “Democracy grows when opportunities are shared.”

Women groups across markets and communities have openly identified with her message.

“She understands women because she has walked our path,” a market leader in Otukpo stated.

Within the APC, stakeholders have said her international exposure in hospitality management, agriculture, and community leadership positions her as a capable legislator.

“She has global experience but local understanding,” an APC chieftain said. “That balance is rare.”

Beyond politics, Adoyi-Ofiebor is known for promoting cultural heritage, particularly her consistent support for the Obaganya Masquerade and Dancing Troupe at the annual Echija Festival. Following her Hajj pilgrimage, she adopted the faith-reflective name Hajiya Khadijat Lilian Adoyi-Ofie, symbolising her advocacy for peace, tolerance, and unity.

With zoning sentiment favouring Ohimini, growing grassroots endorsements, and a candidate whose profile combines compassion, competence, and consistency, the Otukpo–Ohimini House of Representatives contest is shaping into a defining political moment.

As one youth supporter summed it up: “She knows our struggles, she has touched our lives, and now she wants to represent us.”

For many constituents, Ambassador Hon. Lilian Adoyi-Ofiebor is no longer just an aspirant; she is fast becoming the people’s choice.