An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in the Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, Franklin Edonkumoh, has called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to halt the continued representation of Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency by Nicholas Mutu after a seventh term.

Mr Edonkumoh made the call in an open letter to the governor on Saturday in Abuja.

Mr Mutu, from the Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, has been representing the federal constituency since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

Mr Edonkumoh, in the letter, stressed the need for fairness, equity and democratic integrity in the federal constituency, ahead of the 2027 general election.

He said, “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. My intervention at this time is compelled by a recent development of significant democratic importance.

“I was made aware of a recent civil protest in the Patani Local Government Area, where concerned residents gathered to advocate for a change in legislative representation. They were specifically calling for the opportunity for Patani to produce the next member of the House of Representatives for Bomadi/Patani federal constituency.

“It is important to note, and I do so with a strong sense of responsibility, that the protest was conducted peacefully, without any record of violence or breakdown of law and order. This alone reflects a commendable level of civic maturity and democratic consciousness among the people.”

According to the APC chieftain, democracy thrives on participation, inclusion, rotation of leadership and the continuous renewal of representation.

“But in Bomadi/Patani federal constituency, for over 27 years since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the constituency has been represented by a single individual (Nicholas Mutu), now serving his 7th consecutive term.

“While longevity in office is not inherently undemocratic, prolonged dominance without measurable legislative impact, inclusive representation or equitable power-sharing raises serious democratic concerns.

“I present a compelling case for equity, fairness and democratic renewal, urging the government of Delta and relevant stakeholders to allow open democratic competition and support the emergence of a candidate from Patani Local Government Area for the 2027 elections,” he added.

Mr Edonkumoh described seven consecutive terms (1999–2027) by one individual as unprecedented, adding that a potential eighth term would extend representation to 32 years, effectively limiting political participation across generations.

“Such prolonged tenure risks entrenching political patronage systems, weakening accountability, discouraging emerging leaders and undermining voter confidence in democratic processes. Democracy must not only exist, it must be seen to be fair, inclusive and competitive,” he said.

The APC chieftain also noted that stakeholders across the constituency had raised concerns over lack of sponsored bills or motions that directly impact the constituency. 

He said this was in addition to the absence of federal projects, whether completed, ongoing or abandoned, minimal visible legislative advocacy and constituency development outcomes.

“Representation is not merely about occupying a seat; it is about delivering measurable value to the people. After nearly three decades, the absence of tangible progress raises legitimate questions about the effectiveness of continued representation.

“Bomadi/Patani federal constituency comprises distinct local government areas, each deserving fair access to representation. Bomadi Local Government has held the position continuously since 1999. Patani Local Government has never had the opportunity to represent the constituency at the federal level.

“The call for a Patani candidate in 2027 is therefore not political exclusion, but inclusive rotation, a demonstration of justice, fairness and balance and a step toward strengthening unity within the constituency

“Importantly, this demand is not only from Patani, but also supported by stakeholders and opinion leaders in Bomadi, reflecting a shared commitment to fairness,” he said.

Mr Edonkumoh stated that the sustained tenure of a single representative was often linked to institutional patronage networks, which could distort internal party democracy, limit credible competition, prioritise loyalty over performance and alienate constituents from the democratic process.

“The Delta State government must recognise that continued patronage at the expense of fairness erodes democratic legitimacy. True leadership requires the courage to prioritise institutional integrity over individual alliances.

“There is a growing public sentiment and civil pressure, and an increasing grassroots dissatisfaction, particularly from stakeholders in both local government areas as well as youth groups and community leaders advocating for change.

“The people are demanding a democratic reset, and ignoring these voices risks heightened political tension, voter apathy or backlash and erosion of trust in government institutions,” he added.

Mr Edonkumoh 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.

(NAN)