Stakeholders from Edda clan in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have intensified calls to produce the next member of the House of Representatives for the Afikpo/Edda Federal Constituency in 2027, citing what they describe as prolonged dominance by Afikpo LGA
The constituency, jointly shared by Afikpo and Edda, has witnessed renewed debate over zoning ahead of the 2027 elections, with Edda leaders insisting that equity and fairness demand a shift in representation.
Historical records show that since 1999, five lawmakers have represented the constituency. Agwu Nnachi Agwu (1999–2003) and Irem Ibom (2003–2007), both from Edda, held the seat for eight years.
However, representation shifted to Afikpo in 2007, with Christopher Omo Isu serving two terms (2007–2015), followed by the incumbent, Idu Igariwey, who has held the position since 2015 and is expected to complete a third term in 2027.
Out of the 28 years between 1999 and 2027, Afikpo is projected to have occupied the seat for 20 years, while Edda has held it for eight years, a disparity stakeholders described as unjust.
Speaking on the development, a community leader and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Julius Ama Oji, said fairness requires that Edda be allowed to produce the next lawmaker.“For the sake of equity and justice, it is the turn of Edda to produce the next representative,” he said.
Oji likened the constituency to a jointly owned property, questioning the fairness of one side dominating representation for such an extended period.
He also alleged underrepresentation and lack of development in Edda, calling on stakeholders and traditional institutions to support the demand for power rotation.
Corroborating his position, an elder in the community, Sylvia Nnachi, said while the demand for Edda’s turn is justified, the community must remain united to present a credible candidate.“Afikpo has held the seat three consecutive times. It is only fair that Edda takes a shot now,” he said.
Another stakeholder, who spoke anonymously, also backed the call, urging Afikpo leaders to respect the principle of equity.
A community mobiliser, Jennifer Eseni Uduma, dismissed concerns about competence, insisting that Edda has capable individuals to represent the constituency effectively.
“Out of seven National Assembly tenures since 1999, Afikpo has taken five, while Edda has had two. For fairness, Edda should produce the next representative,” she said.
The agitation underscores growing calls for equitable power-sharing arrangements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
