In every functional democracy, the principles of fairness, balance, and inclusive representation are not up for debate. Leadership is never meant to be the inheritance of a select few, nor should public office become a perpetual entitlement. That is why conversations around power rotation are not only legitimate but essential for any society that seeks sustainable progress.
Today, within Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency, one glaring reality can no longer be brushed aside: the deepening imbalance in political representation between the two sister local governments. By 2027, Egbeda would have held the House of Representatives seat for an uninterrupted 20 years, while Ona-Ara—despite its population, electoral strength, and unwavering loyalty—would have had just 8 years.
Placed side by side, the disparity speaks for itself.
It is on this foundation of fairness that youth stakeholders in Ona-Ara are calling on all political parties—APC, ADC, PDP, and others—to display true democratic sensitivity by zoning the 2027 House of Representatives ticket to Ona-Ara. Their demand is simple, logical, and morally grounded: no constituency can claim justice when one part remains perpetually marginalized.
To insist on yet another term for Egbeda, after two full decades of control, is indefensible by any ethical or democratic standard. Only a self-serving mind, unconcerned about the future of the constituency or the next generation, would argue against power rotation at this critical moment. Leadership must reflect the joint ownership of the constituency, not the narrow ambition of a privileged minority.
For nearly twenty years, Ona-Ara has displayed patience, loyalty, and political maturity. The people have supported constituency-wide initiatives, contributed to electoral victories, and remained steadfast partners in development. What they now ask for is not special favor but equity—the basic democratic right to be represented.
This call for zoning is not driven by rivalry or bitterness. It is a call to restore balance, to give every child in both local governments the assurance that their community counts. It is about strengthening the federal constituency on the pillars of justice, inclusion, and mutual respect.
As 2027 draws closer, political actors must recognize the urgency of doing what is right. The constituency will be stronger, more united, and more progressive when every component feels seen and heard. Democracy thrives when no community is left behind.
Ona-Ara has waited for 20 years. In 2027, equity must finally prevail. It is only just, only fair, and only democratic that the House of Representatives seat returns to Ona-Ara.
