Useni Mark Bako

Mark Bako Useni, RT. HON, is a Nigerian politician affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Takum/Donga/Ussa in the House of Representatives.

He has served as Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly during both the 7th and 8th terms consecutively. His career spans roles in both executive and legislative governance, including committee leadership in the National Assembly since June 2023.

Born on June 30, 1970, in Vom (originally part of Benue-Plateau State), Useni’s early education began at Salama Primary School, Takum (1976–1981). He later attended Mbiya Government Secondary School, Takum (1981–1986) before pursuing A-level studies at the College of Preliminary Studies in Yola (1986–1988).

He earned a National Diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Jos in 1990. Useni began his professional career as a news reporter for Taraba Television in 1993, transitioning to higher education with a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Mass Communication from the University of Maiduguri (completed 2003). He later obtained an M.Sc. in Mass Communication from Benue State University, Makurdi (2004–2007), and earned his PhD in Mass Communication in 2014.

Politically active since the early 1990s, Useni held administrative roles such as caretaker councilor for Takum Local Government and special assistant to the Speaker of Taraba State House of Assembly. He was appointed Sole Administrator of Takum LGA (2004) before contesting and winning multiple elections as an Executive Chairman of the local government.

His legislative tenure includes four terms in the Taraba State House of Assembly (2007–2019), where he served as Chairman of the Local Government Committee. He was elected Speaker twice—first after the resignation of the previous leader and again in 2016, stepping down later due to internal party arrangements.

After decamping from his prior party, Useni contested a federal seat via APC, winning a supplementary election in April 2023 for Takum/Donga/Ussa. Currently, he represents this constituency as a member of the House of Representatives and chairs the Committee on Basic Education & Services.