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2027: Former NBA Chairman Gbagir Declares for Buruku State Constituency, Pledges Justice, Rule of Law and Good Governance
From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Makurdi Branch, Barrister Justin Gbagir, has declared his intention to vie for the Buruku State Constituency seat in the Benue State House of Assembly.
Gbagir made the declaration on Monday in Makurdi while briefing journalists.
According to him, his decision to join partisan politics was motivated by the need to effect broader change through legislative engagement and democratic governance.
He disclosed that during his 16 years at the helm of JRI, the organisation recorded significant achievements in human rights advocacy, strategic litigation and community empowerment, noting that the successes were the result of teamwork involving the board, management and staff.
Gbagir announced the appointment of Solomon Keghtor Torluam, Esq., the Senior Legal Officer of JRI, as Acting Executive Director, pending a decision by the organisation’s Board of Trustees.
He described the legislature as a symbol of democracy and the arm of government that gives citizens a direct voice in governance through lawmaking, debate and oversight.
He stressed that effective legislation was critical to peace, good governance and the protection of civil liberties, adding that lawmakers must remain accountable to their constituents and responsive to their needs and aspirations.
Gbagir also emphasised the importance of synergy between the legislative and executive arms of government, noting that such collaboration would reduce political tension, enhance public trust and promote effective policy implementation.
He said his aspiration was further informed by the need to support the development efforts of Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, whom he said had faced stiff opposition since assuming office in May 2023, particularly from “members of his party who have claimed he ran away with a pot of soup.”
According to him, the political rancour in the state has affected governance despite the governor’s commitment to people-centred policies aimed at addressing years of underdevelopment between 1999 and 2023.
“This opposition has created a chaotic political atmosphere in the state and has negatively impacted governance and the delivery of dividends of democracy. The lack of understanding of the governor’s policy initiatives and priorities by political stakeholders is linked to his determination and commitment to place the people at the centre of governance,” he said.
Gbagir noted that Governor Alia inherited a state burdened with salary arrears, unpaid pensions and decaying infrastructure, but added that the administration has recorded visible development strides in the last two and a half years, although more time is required to consolidate the gains.
He argued that meaningful development requires patience and continuity, stating that his quest for a legislative seat was driven by the desire to contribute to the governor’s development agenda and support his second-term bid.
Highlighting his credentials, Gbagir said he has over 23 years post-call experience, holds a Master of Laws degree from Benue State University, and is currently a PhD research candidate at Nasarawa State University, Keffi. He also noted that he has held several leadership positions in the past.
He announced that he would contest on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that he has registered as a party member in Mbaade Ward of Buruku Local Government Area.
Gbagir appealed to the people of Buruku State Constituency and Benue State at large for support, pledging to be a strong, transparent and accountable voice in the legislature, committed to integrity, inclusive governance and the overall development of the state.
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