A political stakeholder from Kunav in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, Mr. Songuh Dennis, has opposed calls for the Jechira House of Representatives seat to remain in Konshisha, insisting that fairness and political balance demand that the position stays in Vandeikya ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a strongly worded statement, Dennis argued that the history of representation since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 supports Vandeikya retaining the seat.
According to him, the constituency has been represented by Hon. Tachia Jooji from 1999 to 2003, Hon. Aondona Dabo from 2003 to 2007, Hon. Iorwase Hembe from 2007 to 2017, Hon. Dorathy Mato from 2017 to 2019, Hon. Hembe again from 2019 to 2023, while Hon. Sesoo Gboko has occupied the seat since 2023.
Dennis maintained that attempts by some individuals to push for the seat to remain in Konshisha were unfair and politically motivated.
He also dismissed claims that the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, had directed that the seat should remain in Konshisha, insisting that the governor had publicly stated that he had not endorsed any aspirant for the contest.
“It is mischievous for anyone to claim the governor has directed that the seat remain in Konshisha when he clearly said every aspirant should go out and seek the support of the people,” Dennis stated.
He further criticized assertions allegedly made by Hon. Livitsar that Kunav people had rewarded him with the seat, questioning when and how such a decision was reached.
Dennis alleged that some individuals were falsely presenting themselves as speaking on behalf of Kunav people after allegedly collecting money and gifts.
He warned that allowing selfish interests to determine the future of the constituency could create long-term political problems for the people.
The stakeholder also called on Kunav sons, daughters, and wives to unite and defend what he described as their “rightful share” in the political arrangement of the Jechira federal constituency.
Dennis further appealed to Governor Alia to caution individuals against using his office and name to influence political narratives ahead of the 2027 elections.
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