By Emmanuel Onyilokwu
Date: June 1, 2025 | Location: Karu, Nasarawa
As the countdown to Nigeria’s 2027 general elections begins, political currents in Benue State are shifting, with the Igede community in Karu, Nasarawa State, throwing their full weight behind one of their own — Hon. Dr. Nelson Alapa — for the Senate seat representing Benue South Senatorial District (Zone C).
What was initially planned as a quiet courtesy visit by Hon. Alapa to the Omi Ny’Igede leadership in Karu Nasarawa state — Chief Sunday Ogah and group president Mr. Sunday Onyike — quickly transformed into a passionate show of solidarity and political endorsement. In what observers have now described as a defining moment, the Igede leaders declared their unequivocal support for Alapa’s senatorial ambition, describing him as “the voice Igede has been waiting for.”
“Zone C has waited long enough,” said Chief Ogah. “It is time we took our place on the red carpet of the National Assembly — not by request, but by right. Nelson Alapa is not just a candidate; he is the embodiment of that right.”
The endorsement resonates deeply with the people of Zone C, particularly the Igede, whose historical quest for equal representation has often been overshadowed. Alapa’s lineage — a first son of Lydia Egbe Ode from the esteemed Egbe Ode family of Igwe Omachi village in Uwokwu, Oju LGA — strengthens both his cultural and political connection to the Igede cause.
In the Company of Chief Inalegwu Entonu, Former Chairperson of Oju Local Government Madam Ire Arubi, Youth Activist Engr. Dan Atayi, Mr Austine Akogwu, Kelly Ekoyi Ekele and etc.
A seasoned politician and public servant, Hon. Nelson Alapa previously served in the House of Representatives, where he empowered an Igede son as his Senior Legislative Aide — a rare gesture hailed as both symbolic and strategic. He also facilitated key infrastructural projects across Igede land, leaving visible marks of development and advocacy.
Beyond legislative achievements, Alapa has remained a central figure in the Aligede movement, a political crusade for justice, inclusion, and recognition of the Igede people within the broader Zone C bloc. Supporters say his commitment is not driven by ambition but by a heartfelt dedication to the liberation of his people.
“Alapa has always stood where others fell silent,” said a community elder in Oju. “He has never turned his back on Igede, and now, it’s our turn to stand by him.”
The momentum behind his candidacy is gaining traction online and offline, with grassroots mobilization surging and social media flooded with hashtags such as #IgedeDeservesTheSenate, #NelsonAlapa2027, and #OligedeForTheSenate — signaling a groundswell of unity across political and generational lines.
Church leaders, traditional institutions, youth bodies, and women’s groups have also begun aligning in what is being described as a political awakening for Igede nation.
As the 2027 elections approach, it is becoming increasingly clear that the people of Igede are no longer content with the sidelines of political relevance. With Nelson Alapa at the forefront, they see a candidate who represents not just hope — but history in the making.