BAYELSA EAST STAKEHOLDERS REJECT ZONING DISRUPTION, INSIST ON ROTATION TO BRASS

Stakeholders in Bayelsa East Senatorial District have rejected moves to disrupt the existing zoning arrangement, insisting that the long-standing rotation formula must be maintained as the current tenure comes to an end.

The position was made known during a protest on Monday by leaders and residents from Ogbia, Nembe and Brass Local Government Areas, who emphasized that the senatorial seat has rotated among the three areas since 1999, a system they say has sustained unity, stability and inclusiveness in the district.

The stakeholders maintained that it is now the turn of Brass Local Government Area to produce the next senator, warning that any attempt to allow a second term for the incumbent or alter the arrangement could undermine peace and fairness.

Speaking during the protest, Comrade Quincy Mac-Odo, a youth leader and former National Vice President Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Council Worldwide and High Chief Olerua John-Salvation, the Otokeiwoi the 3rd, said the arrangement must not be sacrificed for personal ambition, stressing that it has played a key role in ensuring balance across the district.

Other stakeholders, including Hon. Timilah Austine, President of the Bayelsa Comrade Family, Mr. Lante Desmond-Taria of the Nembe Unity Forum, and Mrs. Gift Esere, described the demand as a call for equity and justice, urging all parties to uphold the zoning structure.

They also expressed confidence that the ongoing screening process will reflect the will of the people and preserve peace in Bayelsa East.

Addressing the protesters, Dr. Helen Bob, a member of the Bayelsa East screening committee and Federal Commissioner representing Bayelsa State in the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, called for calm, assuring that the zoning arrangement will be respected in the selection process.

Reported By Isaac Eyedoude