By Aloysius Umalo Makurdi
A senatorial aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Benue North-East (Zone A), Professor Cephas Tushima, has alleged that foreign mining interests, particularly Chinese firms, are contributing to insecurity in mineral-rich communities across Nigeria.
Speaking during a press briefing in Makurdi, Tushima expressed concern over the worsening security situation in parts of the senatorial district, linking it to activities surrounding solid mineral exploration.
He claimed that areas with significant mineral deposits often experience heightened insecurity, alleging that external actors may be fuelling unrest to gain access to the natural resources.
He cited instances in Guma, Logo and Kwande Local Government Areas of Benue State, where mining activities have coincided with rising insecurity.
According to him, the pattern has raised suspicions among residents about the role of foreign interests in destabilising such helpless Communities.
To address the challenge, Tushima pledged to collaborate with the Benue State Government to promote value addition in the mining sector if elected a senator.
He proposed the establishment of processing facilities for solid minerals, noting that such initiatives, similar to efforts in neighbouring Nasarawa State would not only boost the local economy but also reduce security risks associated with illegal mining.
The aspirant also assured of strong synergy with the state government to improve governance and development outcomes if elected in 2027.
Drawing from his background in academia, administration, and corporate governance, Professor Tushima said he is equipped to tackle complex governance challenges and deliver tangible results for the people.
He particularly criticised what he described as poor representation in the district, citing the relocation of a federal polytechnic from Adikpo in Kwande Local Government Area to Wannune in Tarka as part of leadership failure.
The aspirant argued that such a move should have been resisted more strongly in defence of the people’s interests.
He urged constituents to prioritise performance over longevity in leadership, stressing that years in office should not be mistaken as a yardstick to measure effective representation.
According to him, the district must reject “cash-and-carry” politics and instead embrace what he termed leaders with capacity, integrity and courage.
The professor further called for fairness and inclusion in the political arrangement of the zone, noting that Kwande Local Government Area has long suffered political marginalisation.
He maintained that addressing such imbalances was key to strengthening unity and ensuring equitable development across the district.
While acknowledging the challenges facing the area including insecurity, poor infrastructure, limited economic opportunities and inadequate representation, Tushima said his experience in policy design, advocacy and governance positions him to provide effective leadership at the national level.
He urged the people of Benue North-East Senatorial District to embrace a new direction anchored on accountability, performance and collective progress.
