Bayelsa East Elders Council Calls On Senator Agadaga To Honor Zoning Formula

The Bayelsa East Elders Council has called on the Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District, Senator Benson Agadaga to respect, and uphold the fair long-standing zoning formula guiding political representation in Bayelsa East.

In a statement issued to newsmen on Wednesday after a high-powered critical stakeholders consultative meeting, the elders emphasized that the zoning formula remains a critical pillar for maintaining equity, fairness, and political stability in the senatorial district over the years.

They warned that any deviation from this established arrangement could trigger avoidable tension and undermine the unity and peace that has largely defined the senatorial district political evolution overtime.

Zoning As A Foundation Of Stability

The elders noted that since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance in 1999, the Bayelsa East political structure has largely been shaped by an informal but widely respected zoning principle over the years.

Historical Background Since 1999

1999-2003: Sen. Melford Okilo

2003-2007: Sen. Inatimi Rufus Spiff

2007-2011: Sen. Nimi Barigha-Amange

2011-2015: Sen. Clever Ikisikpo

2015-2019: Sen. Ben Murray-Bruce

2019-2023: Sen. Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo

2023-Date: Sen. Benson Sunday Agadaga

This zoning arrangement ensures that the key national assembly office (Senate) rotate among the three local government areas in Bayelsa East, promoting inclusiveness, and preventing domination by any LGA.

Critical stakeholders have often pointed out that this rotational approach has helped to manage competing interests, and fostering a sense of belonging among the three LGAs in the senatorial district.

According to the council, the zoning formula is not merely a political convenience but a moral contract among the people of Bayelsa East—one that must be honored by all stakeholders, including elected officials in the senatorial district.

Direct Appeal To Senator Agadaga

Addressing Senator Benson Sunday Agadaga directly, the elders urged him to respect, and align his political decisions and ambitions with the existing framework, stressing that as a serving senator representing the senatorial district, he carries the responsibility of preserving the integrity of the zoning arrangement.

“Leadership comes with a huge responsibility of fairness, equity and justice,” a spokesperson of the elders council blatantly stated.

“We expect our representatives to act in ways that strengthen unity rather than deepen divisions. The zoning formula is clear, and it must be respected for the overall interest, and benefit of the senatorial district.”

The elders further cautioned against actions or statements that could be interpreted as attempts to disrupt the established order, noting that such moves could erode public trust and create unnecessary political tension and conflict in the district.

The Bayelsa East elders council call comes amid growing debates over zoning and power rotation in Bayelsa East, particularly as political actors begin to position themselves ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

Political consultations in the state have brought critical stakeholders together, including lawmakers, traditional rulers, and party leaders, underscoring the importance of unity and coordinated representation and leadership in the national assembly.

Call For Unity And Restraint

Beyond their appeal to the serving senator, the elders also urged other political actors, stakeholders, and community leaders to exercise restraint and prioritize the collective interest of the senatorial district over personal and self-serving ambitions.

They reaffirmed their commitment to peace, dialogue, and adherence to established norms, emphasizing that Bayelsa East progress depends largely on its capacity to diligently manage internal dynamics without resorting to violent, divisive politics.

“We must continue to build on the foundations laid by our leaders, ensuring fairness, justice, and inclusivity for all–as the unity of the senatorial district must not be compromised,” the statement added.

Conclusively; as political activities gradually intensify in Bayelsa State, the position of the Bayelsa East Elders Council serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of zoning in the state’s governance structure.

Whether this call will influence the actions of Senator Benson Agadaga and other stakeholders remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly added a significant voice to the ongoing advocacy about equity, representation, and political order.