FIC Report (Benue State) – The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, has officially flagged off its Political Arena, a platform designed to foster issue-based engagement between political actors and the electorate ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
Speaking at the inauguration of the forum, on Friday 5 June 2026 The Chairman of the NUJ Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, said the initiative was created to provide a credible platform for political candidates to present their visions and programmes while allowing citizens to make informed electoral choices through direct interaction with aspirants.
He noted that the forum would promote democratic participation, accountability, and informed public discourse, urging political parties and candidates to focus their campaigns on ideas, policies, and practical solutions to the challenges facing the people of Benue State.
The NUJ Chairman also called on journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, accuracy, and objectivity in their reportage, emphasizing the media’s critical role in shaping public opinion and strengthening democracy.
“As the electioneering season gathers momentum, politics should be about service, development, and the collective interest of the state rather than personal ambitions or divisive narratives,” he said.
The event featured the APC flagbearer for Buruku Federal Constituency, Hon. Gideon Inyom, as the maiden guest on the platform.
Addressing journalists and stakeholders, Inyom unveiled a comprehensive development blueprint anchored on four key pillars: security, human capital development, infrastructure and economic opportunity, and inclusion.
The APC candidate described journalists as custodians of public memory whose contributions remain essential in preserving history and promoting accountability in society.
Presenting his vision for Buruku Federal Constituency, Inyom said his agenda is built on “vision, innovation, and impact,” stressing the need for leadership capable of connecting local realities with national and international opportunities.
On security, which he described as the foundation of development, the aspirant pledged to champion technology-driven security initiatives, support stronger intelligence gathering, and advocate policies aimed at protecting lives and property.
He also emphasized human capital development through investments in education, vocational training, and digital skills acquisition, promising to promote scholarship opportunities, technical education, and ICT programmes for young people.
Inyom commended the Benue State Government for establishing a Government Technical College at Ukah, Nifon, describing the initiative as a positive step toward youth empowerment through practical education.
Speaking on infrastructure and economic development, he pledged to attract federal projects, development partnerships, and investments that would improve living conditions and stimulate economic growth across the constituency.
The APC flagbearer further stressed the importance of inclusion, noting that every community in Buruku deserves a voice in governance and development.
Reflecting on his political journey, he cited his involvement in the Not Too Young To Run movement, previous Senate ambition, and advocacy against insecurity in Benue State as experiences that have strengthened his commitment to public service.
He also referenced his victory in the APC primary election, where he secured 10,471 votes out of over 22,000 votes cast, describing the outcome as a mandate for service and responsibility.
Inyom assured constituents of accessible, accountable, and innovative representation if elected, urging stakeholders to focus on solving societal challenges rather than merely winning elections.
The engagement concluded with renewed calls for issue-based politics and collective efforts toward building a more prosperous, inclusive, and secure Buruku Federal Constituency.
VERONICA AZEMBA
For Head of Center FIC Makurdi
