Makurdi, Benue State — November 2, 2025:
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Benue State Chapter, has reaffirmed its position on the zoning arrangement for the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, popularly known as the Enone Federal Constituency, stating that Okpokwu Local Government Area is next in line to produce the constituency’s representative in the House of Representatives come 2027.
In a statement signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Ogli Joseph Inalegwu, APGA said the clarification became necessary following recent debates and speculations over the zoning formula ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the party, the Enone zoning arrangement, established at the start of the Fourth Republic in 1999, was based on an understanding among political leaders from Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo Local Government Areas to rotate the House of Representatives seat on a two-term, eight-year cycle. The system, APGA explained, was designed to promote inclusivity, fairness, and peace among the three local governments.
Historical Breakdown of the Rotation
APGA outlined the historical progression of the rotation as follows:
• Ado Local Government took the first turn in 1999 with Ambassador Sam Obande, whose tenure was cut short by internal political disagreements.
• The position then moved to Okpokwu Local Government, represented by Hon. David Idoko, who served two terms between 2003 and 2011.
• Ogbadibo Local Government followed, producing Hon. Hassan Saleh, who also served two terms from 2011 to 2019.
• In 2019, the seat returned to Ado Local Government through Hon. Dr. Francis Ottah Agbo, who served one term until 2023.
• The current member, Hon. Chief Philip Agbese, also from Ado, continues the rotation cycle that began in 1999.
The party stressed that with Ado having completed its turn, Okpokwu is due to take over in 2027, in keeping with the original agreement and the principles of fairness and balance that guide Enone’s political structure.
“The zoning template was never a personal favour to any politician or party but a collective covenant designed to ensure that no local government dominates others,” the statement read. “Okpokwu, which last produced a representative sixteen years ago, deserves to take its rightful turn as a matter of justice and continuity.”
Party Warns Against Distortion of Zoning Arrangement
APGA cautioned against any attempt to manipulate or distort the zoning agreement for personal or partisan interests, describing zoning as an effective mechanism for maintaining peace and managing political competition in diverse constituencies across Nigeria.
“Any attempt to undermine zoning would amount to a betrayal of the trust and understanding that have sustained the Enone family for over two decades,” the statement added.
The party further reaffirmed its commitment to rotational equity as a core democratic value and urged all political leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, and stakeholders across Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo to respect the long-standing understanding and work toward a smooth transition in 2027.
APGA’s Final Position
Reiterating its stance, APGA declared that its House of Representatives ticket for Enone Federal Constituency in 2027 will be reserved exclusively for a competent and credible candidate from Okpokwu Local Government Area.
“The unity of Enone lies in our collective commitment to justice and mutual respect,” Comrade Inalegwu stated. “Equity and fairness point clearly to Okpokwu as the rightful zone to produce the next House of Representatives member in 2027.”
