Benue State University, Makurdi

Representation in Government and Development Challenges among Igede People of Benue State, Nigeria: The Imperative of Community Radio Broadcasting

OGBU, Benjamin Ejuwa^*

Abstract

This paper examines the contending issues in the representation of Igede people in government, the challenges of development and the imperative of community radio broadcasting. The paper notes the importance of minority representation in government to community development especially among marginalized groups and the need to have a communication channelfor expression of the people's development aspirations. The paper is anchored on Agenda Setting Theory. Analysis of the struggle for development in Igede land indicates that even though some challenges are self-inflicted largely due to lack of unity of purpose ,the lack of opportunities for election into major government positions at the state and federal levels have resulted to helpless exclusion of Igede people from the sharing of Nigeria's common wealth. Consequently, the area has remained undeveloped; lack of quality education and health facilities, bad roads, unemployment and general poverty among the people. Going forward, there is the need for community radio that will mobilize, educate, and foster unity and common front for Igede people that are struggling with underdevelopment and marginalization. The paper therefore, welcomes the development and operation of Choice FM community radio in the area and tasks the station to support the agitation for political power shift to the area as well as set agenda for the overall development of Igede land through dedicated programming.

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