2027: 26-year-old Wisdom Franklin Onah tipped as next Otukpo-Akpa Assembly lawmaker

There is a new energy in the Otukpo-Akpa political space, and much of the conversation centers on one striking detail – age. At just 26 years old, Hon. Onah Wisdom Franklin has joined the race for the Otukpo-Akpa seat in the Benue State House of Assembly, instantly positioning himself as the youngest aspirant in the contest.

On the streets of the constituency – across motor parks, school gates, market stalls and relaxation spots, residents say his entrance reflects the spirit of Nigeria’s “Not Too Young To Run” movement, which opened the door for younger Nigerians to seek elective office.

For many young voters, Onah’s candidacy is more than a political declaration. It is a test of whether the next generation is ready to step forward and take responsibility for shaping the future.

Onah currently serves as Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Council, Hon. Prince Maxwell Ogiri. Those familiar with the workings of the council describe him as focused, loyal and deeply committed to administrative discipline.

The Chairman himself has previously commended his commitment to constituted authority and his ability to manage responsibilities with maturity beyond his years.

Beyond politics, Onah has built a reputation as a capable business manager. He has successfully managed Unique Urban Minds Academy, a fast-rising private nursery and primary school in Otukpo, as well as Urban Village Hot Pot, a 24-hour restaurant regarded as the first of its kind in the area.

Associates say these roles sharpened his skills in financial and human resources management, planning, and day-to-day administration. A graduate of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, he is said to possess competencies in information technology, effective communication, and protocol duties, tools many believe are essential for modern legislative work.

Yet it is his philanthropy that often comes up first in street interviews. Traders in Otukpo-Akpa recall how, in January this year, he provided soft cash grants to selected small business owners across the constituency. Community members say he has silently continued such support periodically, using his limited personal resources to assist the poor and vulnerable.

“He has shown that giving is not about how big your pocket is, but how big your heart is,” one youth leader remarked during a conversation in Otukpo town.

Others point to his quiet support for youth development initiatives and community-based programs.

Hon. Onah’s youthfulness, charisma and broad appeal among young people are being described by supporters as potential game changers. In a constituency that has faced growing security concerns in recent times, many residents say they want fresh thinking and stronger youth engagement.

Otukpo-Akpa has remained in the public eye due to rising insecurity, and there is widespread agreement that mobilizing young people constructively will be critical to restoring peace and stability.

Onah, according to those close to him, believes that if elected in 2027, he can help organize and mobilize the youth within the bounds of the law to support community protection efforts and collaborate with security agencies.
The idea, residents say, is not vigilantism, but structured engagement, advocacy and preventive strategies driven by local knowledge and energy.

Perhaps one factor many observers say could strengthen Hon. Onah Wisdom Franklin’s chances is his origin from Otobi Ward, an axis that, according to community elders, has yet to produce a member of the Benue State House of Assembly since the creation of the Otukpo-Akpa State Constituency.

The constituency is made up of several wards, all of which have taken turns producing representatives over the years, except Otobi.

This reality has fueled a growing sentiment among residents of the ward that 2027 should mark their turn.

In conversations across the area, many Otobi indigenes openly project Onah as their preferred candidate, arguing that his emergence would not only satisfy a long-standing call for equity but also give their ward a long-awaited voice at the state legislature.

Still, the race remains wide open. The incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Angbo Kennedy, is seeking re-election and is regarded as a formidable contender with an established political structure.

Other aspirants, including Hon. Ondaje Emmanuel Stephen; Hon. Dr. Isaac Ikpa; Hon. Paul Inalegwu Okoh; and Hon. Peter Amedu Igoh, have also signaled strong interest in the seat. Each brings experience, networks and loyal supporters to what observers describe as an increasingly competitive contest.

Political analysts in Otukpo say this election cycle is shaping up to be less about party slogans and more about capacity, credibility and grassroots connection. For many voters, the central question is simple: who understands the daily realities of the people and can translate that understanding into effective representation at the state level?

At 26, Hon. Onah Wisdom Franklin’s entry has undeniably altered the tone of the conversation.

Whether his youth will prove to be his greatest strength or his biggest hurdle remains to be seen. But one thing is clear from the voices on the streets of Otukpo-Akpa: the next election will not be business as usual. The people are watching closely, weighing options carefully, and demanding leadership that speaks to both present challenges and future possibilities.