Benue 2027: Tushima joins senate race, advocates fairness, inclusion in Zone A

By Tolu Temidire

A Professor of multidisciplinary background and development practitioner, Prof. Cephas Tushima, has declared his intention to contest the Benue North-East Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, promising to prioritise equity, inclusive governance, and impactful leadership.

Tushima made his declaration before members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, stating that his aspiration is rooted in a commitment to service and the advancement of the people of Zone A under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“My decision to run is anchored on responsibility and service to our people,” he said. “I am one of you. I understand our struggles and share in our aspirations.”

The aspirant, who hails from Kwande Local Government Area, emphasised his longstanding support for Governor Hyacinth Alia, noting that his involvement dates back to the early days of the governor’s political movement.

“I believed in the vision of His Excellency, long before it became mainstream, and I remain committed to that vision,” he stated.

Highlighting his track record, Tushima pointed to his role in supporting social intervention programmes, particularly the state government’s Care Initiative for vulnerable groups.

According to him, “I sponsored the enumeration process and facilitated the initial palliatives across all local government areas of Zone A.”

He used the occasion to challenge the prevailing notion that years in office equate to effective leadership. “We must stop equating longevity with performance. Leadership is about results, not just presence,” he said.

Tushima also raised concerns over what he described as the continued exclusion of Kwande Local Government Area from producing a senator in the district, calling for fairness in political representation.

“This is not just about Kwande; it is about justice, inclusion, and unity. Justice delayed must not become justice denied,” he stressed.

The senatorial hopeful urged constituents to reject vote-buying and embrace competence-driven leadership. “We must rise above ‘cash-and-carry’ politics and treat leadership as a sacred trust,” he said.

Outlining his priorities, he identified security, infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment as key areas requiring urgent attention in the district.

He assured constituents of effective representation if elected, saying, “I will be a strong voice for our people and ensure their interests are protected at the national level.”

He further called on the media to play an active role in deepening democracy through objective reporting and accountability. “The press must continue to guide public opinion with truth and responsibility,” he added.

Tushima urged the people of Benue North-East to embrace a new direction built on competence, justice, and purposeful leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.