Dr. Tonye Timi, Executive Director of Corporate Services at the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), has urged stakeholders in the Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency to prioritise competence and measurable performance over personal loyalty when electing representatives in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday, Timi emphasised that democratic representation is not a privilege but a responsibility rooted in accountability, responsiveness, and tangible results.
He noted that as Nigeria’s democracy continues to mature since the return to civil rule in 1999, citizens are becoming more conscious of the need to assess the effectiveness of their representatives at the National Assembly.
According to him, the approaching 2027 elections present a critical opportunity for stakeholders—including traditional institutions, political actors, civil society groups, and voters—to reflect on the quality of representation in the constituency.
“This reflection must be guided not by sentiment or familiarity, but by objective standards of legislative performance and the broader interest of the constituency,” he said.
Timi explained that the role of a member of the House of Representatives goes beyond occupying a seat in Abuja, stressing that it includes sponsoring bills, contributing to national debates, conducting oversight of government agencies, and attracting development projects to the constituency.
“These responsibilities are the core indicators of legislative relevance and effectiveness,” he said.
He added that lawmakers should be evaluated using clear benchmarks such as the number of bills sponsored, motions moved, participation in debates, and the extent to which they have facilitated federal presence through infrastructure and social programmes.
“Where these indicators remain consistently low over time, it becomes necessary to question whether continuity in office should be maintained,” he stated.
Timi also cautioned against equating longevity in office with effectiveness, noting that experience without tangible impact risks becoming symbolic rather than meaningful.
“Democracy thrives not on tenure alone, but on results—visible improvements in the lives of the people. Where there is no measurable progress, leadership renewal becomes necessary,” he said.
He further stressed the need for responsive and proactive representation, particularly in addressing challenges such as youth unemployment, infrastructure deficits, environmental concerns, and access to federal opportunities.
According to him, effective lawmakers must be active in raising motions, shaping policies, and ensuring their constituency’s interests are consistently represented at the national level.
On inclusion, Timi highlighted the importance of fairness in political representation across the diverse communities within the constituency.
He noted that rotational arrangements, where appropriate, could promote unity and give all segments a sense of belonging.
“Such approaches, when properly implemented, strengthen inclusiveness and reinforce collective ownership of the democratic process,” he said.
The former member of the Delta State House of Assembly concluded by urging stakeholders to focus on the collective good rather than personal affiliations.
“The goal is not just to elect a representative, but to secure an active, effective voice that will champion the aspirations of the people.
“As the 2027 elections approach, stakeholders must make deliberate, forward-looking decisions that prioritise effectiveness, inclusiveness, and sustainable development,” he added.
