As Nigerians continue to assess the performance of members of the 10th House of Representatives, attention has turned to how first-time lawmakers have performed in their legislative duties, constituency projects, public communication, and accountability to the people.
Across the country, some first-time members have earned praise for sponsoring bills, attracting projects, engaging regularly with their constituents, and openly explaining how they are representing the people in Abuja.
Among those widely recognised for their performance are Philip Agbese (Benue), Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan (Lagos), Kafilat Ogbara (Lagos), Paul Nnamchi (Enugu), Donald Ojogo (Ondo), Afam Ogene (Anambra), Harrison Nwadike (Imo), Hart Cyril Godwin (Rivers), Amobi Ogah (Abia), and Aliyu Mustapha Abdullahi (Kwara). These lawmakers have been commended in different quarters for sponsoring bills and motions, participating actively in debates, carrying out oversight functions, empowering constituents, and maintaining regular communication with the people they represent.
However, the situation appears different in the case of the member representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency, Hon. Victor Abang.
Since assuming office, Hon. Abang has faced repeated criticism from many residents of Ikom and Boki over what they describe as poor communication, limited accountability, and the absence of regular public updates on constituency projects and legislative activities.
Many constituents have repeatedly called on the lawmaker to provide clear information on projects attracted to the constituency, the progress of constituency interventions, and his activities at the National Assembly. Critics argue that such information has not been communicated consistently, leaving many people unsure of what has been achieved during his first term.
Another issue that continues to generate debate is the February protest organised by youths from Boki, Ikom, Etung and other communities under the "No Road, No Election" campaign. The protesters demanded urgent action on the poor state of the federal road linking the area and called on elected leaders to do more.
Instead of engaging directly with the concerns raised, Hon. Abang came under criticism after publicly warning that those behind the protest could face arrest by security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS). His response was condemned by many residents and civil society voices, who argued that peaceful protest is a democratic right and that dialogue would have been a better approach.
While every lawmaker may face criticism during their tenure, many constituents believe that stronger communication, greater transparency, and regular engagement with the people would improve public confidence in the representation of Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency.
At a time when several first-term lawmakers across Nigeria are being recognised for visible legislative work and active constituency engagement, many residents say they expect Hon. Victor Abang to demonstrate greater accountability, communicate more openly with the people, and provide clearer evidence of his stewardship before the end of his tenure.
Editor's Note: This report reflects issues that have been publicly raised by constituents and compares publicly visible legislative performance. Performance assessments are inherently subjective and different observers may reach different conclusions.
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