By Paul Aondoakaa 

Benue governorship aspirant Engr. Benjamin Akaakar has unveiled a governance proposal focused on strengthening community participation in state administration. The proposal advocates formal roles for traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, women representatives, farmers and traders in governance processes.

Benue governorship aspirant Engr. Benjamin Akaakar has presented a policy direction centred on community-led governance, arguing that sustainable development in Benue State requires stronger engagement with grassroots leadership structures.

In a statement titled “A Collective Agenda for Benue: Centering Community Leadership in Governance,” Akaakar said governance should reflect the realities and needs of communities rather than operate independently of them.

According to the statement, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women representatives, as well as leaders of farmers’ and traders’ associations, should play structured roles within governance systems.

He noted that such groups serve as custodians of local knowledge and often provide early signals on security, social and developmental concerns within communities.

“A government that sidelines them weakens its ability to understand challenges accurately and implement sustainable solutions,” the statement said.

Akaakar described his governorship aspiration as a collective agenda rather than an individual political project, stressing that Benue’s challenges require coordinated efforts across generations, communities and sectors.

The statement identified security, stable institutions and improved public services as priorities for older citizens, while highlighting employment opportunities, skills development and inclusion for younger people.

He further proposed strengthening local security partnerships, revitalising agricultural value chains, improving healthcare and education services, and promoting transparency in public resource management.

According to the statement, effective governance would require collaboration between state institutions, community leaders, civil society organisations, the private sector and development partners.

The proposal comes amid continuing political conversations in Benue ahead of future electoral activities, with governance, security, agriculture and youth development remaining key issues in public discourse.

The views expressed remain policy proposals and political positions by the governorship aspirant and do not constitute official government policy.