BREAKING: 2027: We want Benue South to produce the next governor, speaker of Benue State – Benson Abounu-led group

The Benue South Strategic Group, led by former deputy governor, Benson Abounu, has demanded that the zone be allowed to produce the next governor of Benue State, while also calling for inclusion in key positions such as Speaker of the State House of Assembly.

The group made its position known on Friday during a press briefing following a well-attended meeting of stakeholders from the Benue South Senatorial District, which comprises people of Idoma and Igede extraction.

Addressing journalists, the group lamented what it described as decades of political marginalisation, noting that since the creation of Benue State, the district has been largely excluded from major political offices.

According to the group, Benue South has neither produced a governor nor occupied the position of Speaker of the State House of Assembly, describing the trend as unjust and unacceptable.

“Since the creation of the state, our people have been sidelined from critical positions. Not only the governorship, but even the office of the Speaker has eluded us,” the group stated.

The group insisted that any presidential candidate seeking its support ahead of the 2027 elections must demonstrate a clear commitment to addressing the imbalance and ensuring fair representation for Benue South.

On the governorship, the group declared its unwavering commitment to producing a governor from the zone for the first time, while acknowledging the need to build alliances across the state to actualise the ambition.

“We are determined, but we also understand that we cannot do it alone. We will engage stakeholders across Benue to make this a reality,” the group said.

The meeting also addressed the senatorial seat, where the group proposed a zoning arrangement to correct perceived internal imbalances.

It noted that while constituencies such as Otukpo and Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo have produced senators multiple times—including prominent figures like David Mark and Abba Moro—areas like Apa/Agatu and Oju/Obi have never had the opportunity.

To address this, the group resolved that only constituencies that have not produced a senator should be allowed to contest the next election, with a proposed rotation between Apa/Agatu and Oju/Obi.

Responding to questions on which of the two constituencies should take the first slot, the group said the decision should be left to mutual understanding between stakeholders.

“Our position is clear—no group should be marginalised. Those who have not benefited should be given the opportunity, and a gentleman’s agreement can determine who goes first,” the group added.

The Benue South Strategic Group also called for fairness and equity in the zoning of other political offices, urging leaders at various levels to ensure justice in their decisions.

The resolutions, the group said, will guide its political engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.