By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
A leading aspirant for the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 House of Representatives election, Barr. Joy Okpainmo Ameh, has called on youths and stakeholders from Apa Local Government Area of Benue State to unite ahead of the next political cycle.
Speaking at a town hall meeting organised by the Apa Youths Arise Movement for sons and daughters of the area in Abuja on Saturday, Okpainmo said cooperation among interest groups was crucial for Apa to produce the next representative for the constituency.
The incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Ojotu Ojema, from Agatu, is serving what stakeholders describe as Agatu’s term and is expected to hand over the seat to Apa in 2027.
Okpainmo, a lawyer and legislative draftsman, said Apa was endowed with “educated, knowledgeable and experienced individuals” who were capable of providing effective leadership.
She argued that the local government area was prepared to take on the responsibility of representing the constituency if its people present a united front.
She urged residents particularly the youth to align their aspirations and strengthen their collective bargaining power, noting that multiple uncoordinated ambitions could weaken the community’s chances.
In her address, Okpainmo referenced constitutional provisions promoting fairness and balanced representation, stressing that unity was essential for political progress in the constituency.
She also highlighted her own legislative experience, including contributions to bills and the drafting work that led to the establishment of the North Central Development Commission.
“Apa is ready not because one person says so, but because our history, our achievements and our human resources prove it,” she said, calling on the community to coordinate strengths, unify voices and harmonize aspirations ahead of the polls.
Okpainmo added that presenting Apa as a dignified and organised community would boost its chances of producing the next representative.
She concluded by urging youths and stakeholders to place collective interest above personal ambition, saying unity would make the community stronger, respected and unstoppable.
