Benue 2027: ‘Rice, salt not democracy’ — Dickson Akoh urges voters to reject transactional politics

Idoma elder statesman and political leader, Dickson Akoh, has condemned the rising culture of inducement politics in Benue South, warning that handouts of rice, salt, and other items do not constitute genuine democracy.

In a statement titled “The 2027 Mandates: Rejecting the Consultation Paradox in Benue South and the Failure of the Democratic Contract,” Akoh urged voters to reject transactional politics as the 2027 general elections draw near.

“The true measure of representation must go beyond tokenistic gestures such as distributing rice, salt, or fertilizers. These are temporary distractions that mask deeper systemic failures and keep our people trapped in cycles of dependency,” he said.

Akoh described the practice as part of a troubling pattern he called the “Consultation Paradox,” where politicians only engage constituents during elections and disappear once they secure power.

“Many political interactions are purely transactional rather than relational. They serve as pre-election rituals to win support, with no commitment to post-election accountability,” he added.

According to Akoh, these practices have weakened the political influence of Benue South, particularly among the Idoma people, while worsening underdevelopment and marginalization in the region.

He called on voters to redefine what constitutes democratic dividends by prioritizing tangible development outcomes.

“Verifiable public goods—motorable roads, quality healthcare, sound education, stable electricity, and improved security—are the real dividends of democracy,” he said.

Akoh also cautioned against aspirants who appear only during election seasons without a track record of service.

“True leadership is not seasonal. Those who have not maintained consistent engagement with the people cannot suddenly claim to represent them,” he emphasized.

Ahead of 2027, he urged a shift in political culture, calling on voters in Benue South to prioritize competence, integrity, and proven performance over party loyalty.

“The 2027 elections should be a moment of self-emancipation. We must reject superficial politics and demand accountability from our leaders,” Akoh said.

He proposed clear benchmarks for evaluating political leaders, including legislative performance, transparency in constituency projects, and regular engagement with constituents.

“An elected official who does not meet with the people regularly has no business representing them,” he stated.

Akoh further called on Idoma leaders and stakeholders to set aside personal differences and work collaboratively for the collective good of the region.

“The greatest threat to our progress is internal, not external. Overcoming division, bitterness, and selfishness is essential if we truly desire development,” he warned.

He concluded by urging the people of Benue South to take responsibility for their political future by asking critical questions and demanding credible leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.