Abuja: Chief Franklin Edonkumoh, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta, has called on Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori to halt the continued representation of Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency by Nicholas Mutu after a seventh term. Edonkumoh made the call in an open letter to the governor, a copy of which was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mutu, from Bomadi Local Government Area, has been representing the federal constituency since the return to democratic rule in 1999. Edonkumoh, in the letter, stressed the need for fairness, equity, and democratic integrity in the federal constituency, ahead of the 2027 general election.
‘As a leader who believes deeply in justice, fairness, and long-term stability of our federal constituency, I find it necessary to lend my voice in support of the principle underlying this agitation, which is anchored on equity, inclusion, and the rightful expectation of rotational representation,’ Edonkumoh stated. He further noted that his intervention was prompted by a recent civil protest in Patani Local Government Area, where residents peacefully gathered to advocate for a change in legislative representation.
The APC chieftain highlighted that democracy thrives on participation, inclusion, rotation of leadership, and the continuous renewal of representation. He noted that while longevity in office is not inherently undemocratic, prolonged dominance without measurable legislative impact, inclusive representation, or equitable power-sharing raises serious democratic concerns.
Edonkumoh described Mutu’s seven consecutive terms (1999-2027) as unprecedented, warning that a potential eighth term would extend representation to 32 years, limiting political participation across generations. He argued that such a prolonged tenure could entrench political patronage systems, weaken accountability, discourage emerging leaders, and undermine voter confidence in democratic processes.
Additionally, Edonkumoh pointed out concerns raised by stakeholders across the constituency over the lack of sponsored bills or motions directly impacting the constituency, alongside the absence of federal projects and minimal visible legislative advocacy and constituency development outcomes.
He emphasized that representation is about delivering measurable value to the people and highlighted that Bomadi Local Government has held the position continuously since 1999, while Patani Local Government has never had the opportunity to represent the constituency at the federal level.
Edonkumoh concluded by stating that there is growing public sentiment, civil pressure, and increasing grassroots dissatisfaction advocating for change. He argued that supporting a fair and open process in 2027 would present an opportunity for the state government to reinforce its commitment to democratic values, promote peaceful political transition, strengthen public trust and legitimacy, and avoid perceptions of bias or imposition.