By Greg Azubuike.
It is not often I discuss political issues publicly. The reason is simple: in politics you hardly know who to trust, and I don’t like to get down to the murk. However, exceptions are there for every rule. It is in this vein that I make bold to step out to comment on the raging issue of the desirability of a possible fourth term bid for our House of Reps member, Rt. Hon Idu Igariwey.
At the risk of sounding immodest, I write from the position of someone who has almost seen it all, known how legislative maneuvering happens, and how to attract maximum constituency projects. I therefore implore you to read with open mind my opinion on this issue. I write this piece with one purpose in mind: the welfare and advancement of Afikpo/ Edda Federal Constituency. I am not writing for anybody, and nobody asked me to write for him or her. What I write here are my personal convictions.
A seasoned legislator’s value is best measured not merely by tenure, but by tangible impact, institutional knowledge, and sustained commitment to public service. A member of the House of Representatives who has successfully served three terms embodies these qualities and, by any reasonable standard, has earned the opportunity to continue serving. Granting such a representative another term is not an act of complacency, but a strategic decision rooted in continuity, proven leadership, and the advancement of constituency interests.
Over the course of three terms, Hon.Idu Igariwey has build far more than a legislative record—he has cultivated relationships, mastered parliamentary processes, and developed a nuanced understanding of both local and national challenges. These are not skills acquired overnight. They are refined through years of navigating complex policy debates, advocating for constituents, and negotiating across political divides. Little wonder he is currently the Deputy Chairman of the all powerful Appropriations Committee— the reason he is able to attract all the projects he has executed in our constituency. Afikpo and Edda have never had it so good. And this is a fact!
Let me surprise you: do you know by being a ranking member, Hon Idu Igariwey is the Leader, South East caucus in the House of Representatives, just as Senator Abaribe is in the Senate; and that that makes him part of the Leadership of House of Reps?
Replacing such experience with inexperience risks slowing progress and weakening the constituency’s voice in critical national discussions.
Equally important are the measurable achievements delivered during those years in office. Readers may help me recollect the numerous roads concrete-paved in Afikpo and Edda, the great renovations at Govt Sec School, Owutu-Edda, his alma mater, street lights, health facilities, etc. A representative who has consistently facilitated infrastructure development, improved access to education and healthcare, supported job creation, or sponsored impactful legislation has demonstrated an ability to translate promises into results. Constituents benefit directly from this track record. Roads built, schools funded, healthcare programs expanded—these are not abstract accomplishments, but real improvements in people’s daily lives. Re-electing a proven performer ensures that these gains are not only maintained but expanded.
Furthermore, seniority in legislative bodies often correlates with increased influence. Lawmakers who have served multiple terms are more likely to hold more key committee positions or leadership roles, giving them greater capacity to attract more federal projects, influence budget allocations, and shape policy outcomes. In practical terms, this means more resources and stronger representation for our constituency. These are the bigger pictures we should be concerned with.
Voting out such a figure may inadvertently diminish our constituency’s leverage at the national level.
Critics sometimes argue that extended tenure can lead to stagnation or detachment. However, this concern should be weighed against actual performance rather than assumptions. If a representative remains accessible, responsive, and productive—as evidenced by their record—then longevity becomes an asset rather than a liability. Democracy thrives not simply on change for its own sake, but on informed choice. When an incumbent continues to deliver value, continuity becomes a rational and beneficial decision. It is my considered opinion that that is the case here.
Ultimately, elections are about trust and results. Idu has consistently met expectations, delivered development, and represented us effectively and has therefore earned that trust. Granting another term is not just a reward for past service; it is an investment in continued progress, stability, and experienced leadership.
My advice to Idu: if for any reason your political party of choice fails to give you the ticket, move to the next available party in time (considering the land mines planted in the Electoral Act, 2026). Your good stewardship will definitely see you through.
