Group Launches 'We the People of Nigeria Initiative,' Demands Greater Citizen Participation in Governance, Faults Benue APC Primaries
By Our Correspondent In Makurdi
A group of concerned Benue citizens has launched the "We the People of Nigeria Initiative," a partisan political movement designed to promote active citizen participation in governance, political accountability, and democratic engagement across Nigeria.
The initiative was unveiled on Wednesday in Makurdi by its National Convener, Barr. Justin Gbagir, during a media briefing.
Gbagir said the movement would focus on civic engagement, political awareness, grassroots mobilisation, youth participation, community empowerment, advocacy, and constructive dialogue to encourage Nigerians to take active roles in shaping the country's democratic process.
He reaffirmed the group's commitment to promoting the rule of law, justice, fairness, transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance, urging Nigerians to join the movement in safeguarding democracy and strengthening public participation in governance.
The National Convener also congratulated Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and the people of the state on the 50th anniversary of Benue State's creation, the governor's 60th birthday, and his three years in office, commending the administration's infrastructure development efforts and initiatives aimed at stimulating economic growth.
However, Gbagir alleged that the recently concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Benue State were manipulated and failed to reflect the wishes of party members.
He claimed that candidates were imposed through the influence of individuals he described as the governor's "point men," alleging that the process undermined transparency, fairness, internal democracy, and grassroots participation while creating discontent among party faithful.
He questioned the legitimacy of the "point men" structure, arguing that it was neither recognised by the Constitution nor backed by any known government policy. He further alleged that meetings organised during the primary process were aimed at producing predetermined outcomes rather than building consensus among stakeholders.
Gbagir called on the APC leadership to rebuild confidence in the party by ensuring transparent candidate selection, promoting dialogue among stakeholders, and strengthening accountability to prevent further divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also referenced media reports indicating that the APC National Working Committee replaced some of the purported winners of the Benue primaries with loyalists of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, reportedly over concerns about the credibility of the exercise.
According to him, political leaders must place the interests of the people above factional considerations, stressing that democratic authority derives from the consent of the electorate.
He warned that continued disregard for the wishes of party members and citizens could fuel voter apathy and further erode public confidence in Nigeria's democratic process.
