₦airaland Forum

By Joseph Itazi

Benue State Commissioner for Finance, Hon. David Olofu, has said all hope was not lost yet, for the governorship of Idoma extraction, come 2023.

This was, even as, he has also described as "unfounded and mischievous", the news making the rounds that he was working towards becoming the deputy governorship of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), against the governorship aspiration of the Idoma people.

Olofu, while interacting with Journalists in Makurdi on Friday, said, with the nomination of Engr. Benson Abounu as the Idoma consensus candidate in PDP, it is a pointer that the people were on the right track.

He said, "there has never been a time the Idoma people were as united and sincere in their agitation like this. Since 1999, this is the only time Idoma people would unanimously present one single candidate for PDP primaries. This is a good hope for us as a people and I pray it eventually ends in praise".

He advised his Idoma kinsmen, especially, various agitating groups, such as Olohi Ka'Idoma, to heed to the advice of Governor Samuel Ortom, by continue to lobby the Tiv stakeholders, for possible understanding before the primaries.

Speaking on the allegation by 'Olohi Ka'Idoma', that he was secretly working to jeopardize the chances of Idoma governorship, so he could emerge as deputy governor, Hon. Olofu said, "those behind the report were hallucinating", as there was nothing to suggest such move.

"Those who are conversant with political party activities and electioneering process in Nigeria would agree with me that, no one talks about deputy governorship of a state, except the governorship candidate emerges in the party, after primaries.

"How can one be talking about deputy governorship when we are yet to know who would fly the flag of the party? As a matter of fact, deputy governorship position is not like other positions that are contestable. It's usually zoned to a particular area and the stakeholders from the area would meet and present an acceptable candidate that can also help the party win general elections.

"To say one is contesting for deputy governorship position even when primaries are not yet done, is not only misleading, it is also unfounded and mischievous. It is the figment of the imagination of those who are peddling it.

"But I tell you, none of their antics would stop me or the party from standing by the truth or supporting a course that is people oriented and widely acceptable. No one would coarse me into supporting an unjust or unfair aspiration of any individual. I shall continue to work together with the like minds and leaders of the party, to ensure equity, fairness, justice and equitable distribution of positions and dividends of democracy", he added.

He stressed that, like other illustrious sons and daughters of Idoma nation, he had made his contributions towards the actualisation of Idoma governorship agenda, saying those in doubt should crosscheck with the Benue Rebirth Movement (BRM) under the leadership of AVM Monday Morgan (Rtd.).

The Olohi Ka'Idoma, had early hours of Friday, accused Hon. Olofu of undercurrent aspiration of deputising the Tiv consensus candidate in PDP, Rt. Hon. Titus Uba. The group also alleged that the Commissioner, who hails from Apa LGA of Benue South, was seriously against Idoma governorship agenda in 2023.

By Esther Daniels

Ahead of the next years' general elections,  Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has urged presidential aspirants on the platform of the PDP to maintain peace and harmony among them as they carry on with their campaigns. 

Governor Ortom made the appeal Friday, May 6th, 2022 when Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state, paid him a consultative visit at Benue People's House, Makurdi.

Mohammed, the former FCT Minister is one of the presidential aspirants on the platform of the PDP.

He stated that as qualified as all of them were with the requisite experience to lead the country, only one would be picked with the rest teaming up with the candidate to ensure that the party wins the election. 

The Governor maintained that the PDP has the task to take Nigeria from the failed APC and rebuild it, stressing that members of the PDP have a joint responsibility of ensuring unity among them. 

He said he can attest to the capacity of the former FCT Minister having worked with him as a cabinet members in the Federal Executive Council to develop the country. 

Earlier, Governor Bala Mohammed  stated that owing to the maladministration of Nigeria by the current administration, saying that Nigeria has been polarised along ethnic and religious lines and requires a bridge builder of his kind to pull the country together. 

Governor Mohammed assured that if given the mandate, he would work with the state Governments to tackle security and other development challenges that the country was facing.

By Juliet Akoh

A pressure group given to equity, fairness and good governance, has lambasted the Benue State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. David Olofu, for secretly fighting the chances of Idoma governorship of Benue State in the 2023 general elections. 

The group, 'Olohi Ka'Idoma', at a press briefing in Otukpo on Friday, also alleged that Mr. Olofu was secretly fighting for the position of deputy governor of the state, hence "his undercurrent gimmicks and scheming to jeopardize Idoma's ambition of governorship".

Idoma people, occupying mainly the Benue South senatorial district, have been agitating to occupy the government house in Makurdi, since 46 years that the state was created.

The Benue Rebirth Movement (BRM), through the national coordinator, AVM Monday Morgan, has been working tirelessly to see to the emergence of an Idoma governor in 2023.

But Comrade Emmanuel Adai, Secretary-General of Olohi Ka'Idoma, told Journalists in Otukpo on Friday, how the Finance Commissioner has been fighting a "selfish fight" at the expense of the general interest of Idoma nation. 

"He is an enemy of the Idoma nation and he would be exposed by God's grace. He is fighting a selfish fight, even right from his Apa local government area, down to other parts of Benue South. 

"We reliably gathered that he has been busy writing names of some persons whom he is promising to give appointment to if he finally emerges the deputy Governor. We are aware of his recent meeting with the outgoing Councillors from his Apa local government area, where he promised them appointment in Makurdi, if they could do his biding and vote out the incumbent House of Assembly Member, Abu Umoro.

"The only reason he gave such instruction is to prevent Umoru, who hails from the same Clan and Ward with him from emerging the candidate. He secretly told the Councillors that the Assembly and deputy governor positions won't come from same ward.

"We are also privy to the number of motorcycles and other items the Commissioner shared recently to prosecute his inordinate ambition of becoming the deputy governor, when the entire Idoma nation is clamouring for governorship position. This is sabotage of the highest order and we must guide against such people", Adai added.

He said the BRM and the entire Idoma people should be wary of the Commissioner and those of his likes, who would would stop at nothing to bring down their own and support outsiders, at the expense of the wishes and aspiration of their people.

By Esther Daniels


The Akpehe community in Makurdi metropolis Thursday, May 5th, 2022 paid a thank you visit to the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom to express their appreciation for the construction of the 2.2 kilometer NKST Yina-International Market road.

They were represented by the church led by Rev. Kurugh Antiev and Donald Anyogo, Chairman of the Landlords Development Association.

In his short but emotional speech, Pastor Antiev stated that the community had lived a life of complete neglect for more than ten years, as a result of the deplorable nature of the road.

He said members of the community are  now happy that the road was fixed by the Governor.

He stated that by constructing the road and providing the community with an electricity transformer as he had promised  during his campaigns, the Governor has demonstrated that he was trust worthy and reliable.

Pastor Antiev who prayed for the Governor to complete his Government on a high note expressed hope that his wish of representing his people at the Senate would be granted for him to continue serving the people.

Chairman of the Landlords Development Association, Akpehe, Donald Anyogo thanked the Governor for standing by his promise of constructing the road and providing the community with electricity.

Anyogo listed the benefits of the two infrastructure to the community to include improvement of the socio economic well being of the people and reduction of traffic at the Wurukum market area.

Responding, Governor Samuel Ortom acknowledged the patience of the people of Akpehe to his Government, noting that even after failing in his promise to construct the road in his first tenure, they still gave him their support to win the 2019 election.

Governor Ortom stated that with the support of God, other projects that he had desired to carry out to alleviate the suffering of the people, would be completed before the end of his administration.

By Esther Daniels


Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has explained that he did not at any point promised to anoint his former Chief of Staff, Hon. Terwase Orbunde or any other  aspirant as his successor.

The Governor made the clarification Wednesday, May 4th, 2022 when stakeholders from the Kwande intermediate area paid him a solidarity visit at the Benue People's House, Makurdi.

He said the clarification became necessary to dismiss insinuations by the former Chief of Staff that he had betrayed him after the party zoned the governsorship position to Vandeikya.

"Terwase is my brother and friend. We have come a long way. That is why God told me in 1995 that he (Orbunde) will anchor my governorship campaign. So I came from Zaria where I was in school to inform him. When it was time, he joined me in 2015 to actualise my dream.

"I never promised Orbunde or any of the aspirants that they will succeed me. I am not God to annoint anyone to be governor. That is why I have allowed the process to be followed diligently. How could I have promised him that I will make him governor," he querried.

The Governor explained that with his vast experience in politics, coupled with the guidance from God, he had to allow the stakeholders to select the candidate to brighten the chances of the party winning the election.

Governor Ortom also denied ever receiving any amount from the former Chief of Staff in the course of his governorship campaigns either in 2015 or 2019 as he has claimed.

He noted that the private letter Hon. Orbunde wrote and brought to him in company of two elders from Kwande and Ushongo demanding for a refund of the sum of N160 million from the sale of his house in Abuja, which he later leaked to the social media came to him as a shock, stressing that "Orbunde never gave me money during the governorship campaigns."

He called on "those who are close to him (Orbunde) should pray for him. There is an assignment he said God sent him to do. He should go back to complete that assignment. I am sure God will uplift him."

On the forthcoming party primary elections into various elective positions, the Governor assured that a level playing field would be provided for those who have been cleared to participate in the exercise as any form of rigging would be met with stiff resistance.

By Esther Daniels

A Governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has defiled the zoning by the leadership of the party in the state and gone ahead to purchase the nomination and expression of interest forms to contest in the 2023 general elections.

The former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), stormed Makurdi, the Benue State Capital, Wednesday, after purchasing the governorship nomination forms from the national secretariat of party in Abuja.

His move confirms earlier reports that he has defied the decision taken by leader of Benue APC, Senator George Akume, that the governorship ticket of the party be zoned to Jechira intermediate area.

Aondoakaa hails from Kwande intermediate area, and was not favoured by the zoning decision of the party's leadership.

But it appears the former AGF has boycotted the Benue APC's zoning arrangement and has gone to purchase the Governorship nomination forms.

Sources disclose that such defiance by APC governorship aspirants in Benue of Akume has emerged to be a source of serious concern as it portends grave crisis in the party ahead of its governorship primaries.

There are also speculations that, with the indirect mode of primaries stipulated for the party to the 2023 elections, big money bags, like Aondoakaa, are very likely to muscle their way through to victory against Akume's wish.

It was learnt that the situation has raised deep worries within the Akume camp as to where the "humongous amount of finances needed to prosecute the primaries will be sourced from'.

By Esther Daniels

Critical stakeholders from the Kwande intermediate area have dissociated themselves from the decision of the former Chief of Staff to the Benue State Governor, Hon. Terwase Orbunde to leave the PDP and join APC.

The former Chief of Staff was one among the many governorship aspirants on the platform of the PDP from Kwande who lost out due to the zoning arrangement, which favoured Vandeikya local government area.

But Orbunde felt aggrieved over the decision and has decamped to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The leaders unanimously spoke Wednesday, May 4th, 2022 when they
paid Governor Ortom a solidarity visit at the Benue People's House, Makurdi.

They said they remained members of the PDP and not party to the decision of the former Chief of Staff to decamp to any political party.

Elder Atsaga Anemba and Prof Nicholas Ada in separate remarks said the decision of the party to zone the Governorship seat out of Kwande was "fair and transparent" and the people in the area "remain committed to the decision."

The Chairman of the party in Mbaketsa Council Ward, Hon. Tersoo Ukaa assured the governor that "No member of the party in the ward has decamped with anyone. We remain committed to the decision of the party leaders on the outcome of the zoning for the governorship seat."

The member representing, Kwande/ Ushongo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Mr. Bob Tyough said the people of Kwande have accepted wholeheartedly the decision of the party to zone the seat to Vandeikya and would stand with the Governor as the leader of the party.

On his part, Hon. Bem Dzoho who spoke on behalf of Government appointees in the area stated that based on what Governor Ortom has done for them in terms of appointments, the people of Kwande have resolved to stick to the wisdom of the party leadership at all times.

Two of the Governorship aspirants, Dr. Paul Ubwa and Mr. Adikpo Agbatse in their separate comments said they have no problem with the decision of the party and have resolved to work for Engineer Titus Uba to win the election.

Also speaking, Hon. John Jebe who spoke on behalf of the youths, assured that the youths would mobilize and vote the PDP in the next election more than they did in the previous elections.

Responding, Governor Samuel Ortom thanked the Kwande stakeholders for standing with the decision of the party but expressed displeasure over the decision of some of the aspirants who actively participated but later turned back to discredit it.

He said such people are not worthy to be trusted with leadership since they cannot stick to a simple resolution and insisted that the process, which led to the zoning and emergence of Engineer Uba as the consensus candidate was transparent.

Others who spoke at the meeting included Dr. Paul Ubwa, Mrs. Esther Adzongo, Hon. Bem Dzóhó as well as the Ushongo Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Joseph Asawa.

The PDP Chairman in Ushongo local government, Hon. Achia Agashi, Hon. Bob Tyough and the PDP zonal Chairman, Hon. Azua Ashongo also spoke in the same light.

...As he felicitates with Muslims on Eid-El-Fitri

By Esther Daniels

Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has sent a message of felicitations to the Muslim ummah in Nigeria on the celebration of this year’s EId-el-Fitri.

The EId-el-Fitri is celebrated worldwide by Muslims to mark the end of the Ramadan fast.

The Governor in a goodwill message to the Muslim faithful to mark this year’s EId-el-Fitri praised the Muslim ummah for their sacrifices and prayers for the nation during the Ramadan fast.

Ortom, therefore, admonished them to sustain the spirit and lessons gained from the Ramadan period to further promote the peace, unity and progress of the nation.

He particularly urged both the Muslim and Christian faithful to pray for the nation to have a successful election and transition in 2023.

The Governor also called for religious tolerance between and among different adherents saying that “from my knowledge and understanding, all religions preach peace, love and good neighbourliness “.

He lamented that the security of lives and properties is still a serious challenge and enjoined all Nigerians to enlist in the battle against all forms of crimes especially terrorism and banditry which are threatening the unity of the country.

Ortom says he craves an egalitarian society where every citizen is free to ply his or her legitimate trade in any part of the country without any fear of intimidation or molestation

He wishes the Muslim ummah a successful celebration.

By Esther Daniels

The Vice Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) Benue State Zone A, Hon. Azua Ashongo, has emerged as the Chairman of the PDP State Vice Chairmen's Forum nationwide.

He was elected chairman of the forum at its Saturday's virtual national convention.

Ashongo, in his acceptance speech, a copy of which was sighted by our correspondent, expressed gratitude to his colleagues for electing him as pioneer Chairman of the forum.

He said, though his intention was not to create the forum and be made its chairman but he appreciate the honour done him.

"Personally, I wasn't creating this forum so as to be made the Chairman, but I was only doing it so that we can also come together as one family and deeply involved in the process of selecting someone who becomes the Party Flag-Bearer, come 2023 general elections.

"However, you have found me worthy to serve as the forum's Chairman and other officers, this is a great honour done to all of us and we are not taking this for granted", Ashongo said.

He assured the forum of his total commitment in making sure the forum becomes the PDP's strongest and most reliable forum in Nigeria.

Ashongo also solicited for the supports and contributions of his colleagues to ensure the success of the forum.

Other members of the new national executive include, Abraham Amah, Secretary; Hamisu Dogo, Treasurer; Akinlabi Taiwo, Publicity Secretary; Peter Sabo, Financial Secretary and Dr. Julius Takeme, Organizing secretary.

The forum also elected the following as coordinators from various geopolitical zones: Dr. Ozoani, South East; Hassan Sheriff, North East; Aliyu Namoda, North West and Hon. Jerry Satmark, North Central.

By Esther Daniels


Governor Samuel Ortom, Saturday, April 30th, 2022 doled out over 5 million to his kinsmen of Nzorov, Guma Local Government Area to enable them join the Muslim community in celebrating Sallah.

The kinsmen, who gathered at the Governor's residence in Gbajimba, also received 18,000 tubers of yam and 1200 bags of rice and pigs to go with them.

Addressing the mammoth crowd of the kindmen, some who have been displaced by the Fulani herdsmen, Governor Ortom said the gesture was his own little way of expressing gratitude for the blessing they had givien him years ago which has ontinued to be with him.

He noted that if not for the blessings and support he has been enjoying from his kinsmen, he would not have been able to survive the plethora of challenges he has encountered in his political journey.

While assuring of his assistance to them at all times, Governor Ortom advised them, especially the younger ones to stay off vices like drinking and smoking of harmful substances to be able to also contribute positively to the society.

Governor Ortom lamented the continued attacks and killing of the people, including security personnel by Fulani herdsmen, stressing that the time had come for everyone to rise up and defend themselves against the aggressors.

The Governor maintained that his administration has not relented in it's efforts to protect them, saying both the Livestock Guards and Community Volunteer Guards were set up by law to complement the conventional security agencies.

Earlier, outgoing Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Hon. Caleb Aba and Ter Guma, Chief Dennis Shemberga, acknowledged the infrastructure development the Governor has undertaken in road and rural electrification in the area and commended him for standing firm against herdsmen invasion.

By Esther Daniels

In line with provisions of its constitution and the Electoral Act of Nigeria, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Saturday, 30th April, 2022, held Congresses across the 276 council wards of Benue State.

The Ward Congress was meant for the elections of 3 adhoc state delegates who would be voting for State and National Assembly aspirants, as well as governorship aspirants of the party in the forthcoming primaries in May.

Reacting to the conduct of the exercise, the state's chapter of the party expressed satisfaction that the exercise was successful in all the council wards and it had elected 3 delegates from each of the wards peacefully.

Briefing Journalists in Makurdi, the State capital, Mr. Bemgba Iortyom, the party's Publicity Secretary, said "those delegates will enjoy an ad-hoc status and constitute part of the electoral college at its indirect primary elections slated for next month, to nominate candidates for the State and National Assembly as well as Governorship elections coming up in 2023".

The party commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for diligently monitoring the exercise in each of the council wards in strict compliance with provisions of the law.

"Equally, Benue PDP lauds the order and security maintained at each of the venues of the exercise by Security agencies which contributed immensely to its successful conduct and outcome.

"It is our faith that the next round of congresses slated at the various stages and the National Convention will enjoy similar success in reflection of the robust internal democracy culture of our great party", Mr. Iortyom told newsmen.

The primaries for the purpose of electing candidates for the State House of Assembly would hold May 7; House of Representatives, May 12; Senate, May 14; gubernatorial, May 21; while the national convention holds in Abuja between 28th and 29th May, 2022.

By Esther Daniels

Hoodlums suspected to be political thugs loyal to opponents of the Honourable Member representing Ado/Ogbadibo/Okpokwu Federal Constituency, Dr. Francis Ottah Agbo, has set one of the lawmaker's campaign billboard located at Ekeh Ward on the Otukpo-Enugu Express Way, in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State ablaze.

It was gathered that the incident happened over the weekend.

The lawmaker's media aide, Andrew Agbese, who confirmed the incident in a statement Sunday, said Ottah Agbo who doubles as Chairman of the Narcotic Drugs Committee as well as the Spokesman, Minority Caucus, said being a Christian, he has forgiven the arsonists.

Describing the act as criminal and unfortunate, the Feedback Lawmaker said it is unimaginable that people would resort to arson and violence in the 21st Century where dialogue, persuasion and delivery of dividends of democracy should be the hallmarks of politicking.

He said: "By the grace of God and the will of the people, we shall win the PDP primary this month, as well as the 2023 general election because of the iron-clad support and solidarity, I enjoy from the people of Ado/Okpokwu,/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency. The anointing is with us and no amount of intimidation and violence can suppress the will of our people. The conspiracy against me will fizzle out like the candle in the wind. The naysayers are scanty and drowning and that is why they've resorted to crudity and destruction of my communicative billboards in Okpokwu.

"As a committed democrat and one of the journalists who fought for the return and entrenchment of democracy in this country, I will not descend to their level of brigandage and criminality.

"I am more concerned about using my office to get more sustainable employment to the youth in my constituency and have them develop entrepreneual skills rather than using them as thugs and arsonists against political opponents.

"Like I have always said, I have no human enemies to fight. My only enemies are poverty, ignorance, diseases and underdevelopment and not burning of the property of my opponents."

The Lawmaker called on the youth not to allow themselves to be used as thugs and arsonists and reminded them that the politician who usually sends them to carry out such criminal acts will not use his children to do so, because of the risks involved!

"Great Enonites, don't allow him use you, he has secured good jobs for his children but he is using you for criminal acts. Resist him for he doesn't mean well for you.

"Next time he asks you to go and kill or burn someone's property, tell him to use his children," he said.

The Lawmaker however said he has reported the matter to the relevant authorities for necessary action.

Meanwhile, political leaders and several groups and associations in Ado, Ogbadibo, Okpokwu Federal otherwise known as Enone Constituency have condemned the dastardly act and expressed solidarity with the Lawmaker.

By Esther Daniels

Kassim Afegbua, a former commissioner for information in Edo state, says former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar should respond to the US claims of corruption against him.

Atiku’s row with the US authorities began after the FBI investigated a bribery scandal involving William Jefferson, former US congressman, in 2004. 

He was accused of demanding a bribe of $500,000 to facilitate the award of contracts to two American telecommunication firms in Nigeria.

In a statement on Sunday, Afegbua who was the spokesperson of Abubakar's campaign in 2019, said the report of the US congress on the allegations is too "damning to be ignored."

"The report of the United States Congress on the investigation is too damning to be ignored, if we truly want to sustain the ethics of a transparent leadership and positive governance," the former commissioner said.

"I am therefore calling on the United States Government to commence the process of inviting Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to the United States to face those charges without further delay. I am aware of the threats to my life over my strong position against the aspiration of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and other northern aspirants who are running against the run of play.   

"I am therefore, using this opportunity to plead that the United States Government takes expedite action on this matter in the interest of rule of law, justice and transparency. 

"The United States of America should please take deliberate steps to help Nigeria grow her anti-corruption initiative, deepen her democracy and provide the opportunity for a robust economy that will benefit the majority and not a select and privileged few. It will help consolidate both private and public sector effort at reducing the incidents of corruption and financial malfeasance. 

"The earlier Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is made to face the full wrath of the law, the better for our anti-corruption crusade, and the best for our fledgling democracy. 

"I am a Nigerian who desires to see a more proactive government that would respond positively to the yearnings and aspirations of its citizenry. A stitch in time, saves nine. This is the time to act urgently too."

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has described the conduct of 2022 Local Government elections in Benue State as peaceful, fair and credible.

The Governor made the observation at LGEA Primary School, Gbajimba, Guma Local Government area shortly after casting his vote.

He expressed happiness with the large turn out of the people to cast their votes across the state, stressing that having worked very hard, the People's Democratic Party would come out victorious.

He said that despite the invasion of the local government by Fulani terrorists which has made more than half of the local government displaced, the massive turn out by voters is a clear testimony that the people are conscious of their rights by actively participating in all democratic processes for good governance.

The Governor advised the incoming chairmen and councillors to repay the confidence the people have in voting them by working with the state Government to bring development and peace at the grassroots.

The Governor had, before casting his vote,  visited the two Internally Displaced Persons Camps in Gbajimba where he provided them with food items, meat and cash.

The food items include ten thousand tubers of yam, 100 bags of rice and four pigs.

Governor Ortom while addressing the IDPs enjoined them to remain peaceful and exercise patience as Government was working hard to end the Fulani invasion which has kept them away from their ancestral homes and to enable them go back to their respective villages.

By Esther Daniels

Governor Ortom has described the death of young Micheal Abounu as painful and very difficult for the family.

He said it is traumatising for parents to bury their children.

The Governor spoke Thursday, April 29th, 2022 at the funeral of the son of the deputy governor of Benue State, Engr Benson Abounu at Otukpo-Icho.

He said the gap created in the family by the demise of the young Abounu may be difficult to fill but advised them to accept it as the will of God who decides everything as he pleases.

Governor Ortom prayed God to grant the soul of Micheal Abounu eternal rest and advised the people to turn to God for them to enjoy the benefits of serving him.

Bishop of the Methodist Diocese of Otukpo, Right Reverend Oliver Abah in his message titled , "There is hope for the dead" declared that since de ath is designed by God, "It can come to anybody at anytime regardless of age."

Bishop Abah said, though at a young age, the death of Micheal had been programmed by God and admonished the people to get prepared so that when their time comes they would be rejoicing with the Almighty in heaven.

Governor Ortom led members of the Benue State Executive and Security Councils as well as other top government functionaries to witness the burial including a one-time Nigerian Ambassador to Mexico, Prof Iyorwuese Hagher.

By Esther Daniels

The crisis brewing in the All Progressives Congress, APC Benue State Chapter has blown following breakdown of relationship between former National Chairman of the People's Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Barnabas Gemade, and Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs and leader of the party in the state, Senator George Akume.

It was learnt that the Benue APC capsized into crisis following battles over the guber ticket of the party, with Gemade particularly, daring Akume that it will not be business as usual for him.

In obvious reference to Akume who has been the leader of the party in the state since its formation, Gemade stated categorically that he will not be available to a stooge of a few individuals in the party.

He specifically warned against micro zoning of the governorship ticket, stressing further that any attempt to impose a candidate on it from a few in the party will be totally unacceptable.

The offensive by Senator Gemade has not taken many by surprise as it has long been known that he was not seeking the Benue APC Guber ticket at the benevolence of Akume who has at every election year single handedly awarded the ticket to anyone of his choice without going through the primary election process.

It would be recalled that Gemade in 1999 as Leader of PDP in Benue, single handedly installed a relatively unknown Akume as Governor of the state over better qualified aspirants to the seat, but down the years Akume has grown into the political force he now is, but the relationship between him and his erstwhile godfather soured bitterly with injuries inflicted on the father by the son which could hardly heal in the span of one lifetime.

It was, therefore, from the onset a time bomb only waiting to explode when Gemade opted to pitch tent in APC as he was clearly seen as a master in his own right not under the leadership of Akume, and his governorship ambition presented a perfect recipe for a bloody civil war in the broom wielders party in Benue at an appointed time.

Gemade has now rolled out on the offensive in a 'smash-and-grab bid for the Benue APC Guber ticket, which he is reported to be prosecuting on a number of fronts within and outside the state.

Within Benue the former two term Senator for Benue North-East (Zone 'A') is reported to have, using his network of political contacts and established structures oiled by a huge financial war chest, amassed a sizeable pool of delegates to the party's indirect primary election to hold sometime next month.

Gemade is also said to have used his depth of reach in national politics to outflank Akume by rigging together an extensive network of alliances including with the National Chairman of the APC, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, who only recently warned against imposition of candidates on the party's gubernatorial ticket, with particular reference to Benue.

Feelers have already emerged that Akume lacks the influence within the regime and the financial muscles to contain Gemade's Guber ambition given that the later enjoys a superiority in connections within Aso Rock and boasts a financial war chest which could wipe out any Akume sponsored aspirant at the forthcoming primary election of the party.

It has been argued by many that Gemade's superiority over Akume was calibrated by the Aso Rock cabal when it refused to move the former Benue State Governor from the inconsequential Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs to a more lucrative one at the recent cabinet reshuffle, thereby leaving him politically and financially emaciated and defenceless against the blitzkrieg now launched by the wily and foxy former BCC helmsman.

By Sunny Green Itodo

"The spirit that prevails among men of all degrees, all ages and sexes is the spirit of liberty" -Abigail Adams, former United States first lady.

The world over, democracy is the most legitimate form of government, because of its penchant for equity, justice and the rule of law; which invariably brings peace and development. This is instructive to why most of the global icons - from the great Mahatma Gandhi to Nelson Mandela are heroes of democracy who fought tooth and nail for the political liberations of their people.

Today, there is a 'Messiah' rising from the heart of Igede nation for the liberation of the people of Benue South Senatorial District, in the person of Chief Hon. Bright Igodo Ogaji, the Odukanho of Epwa-Ibila and Alagbajuju 1 of Egbema kingdom. 

Armed with the passion to rescue his people (Zone C) from the sociopolitical and economic crunches, and the obvious need for quality and effective representation at the red chamber, Chief Ogaji, an accomplished businessman and astute philanthropist, ventured into the race to represent the good people of Benue South at the Senate on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), ahead of the 2023 general elections.  

His declaration of interest to contest for Senate, was greeted with widespread jubilations, especially amongst his Igede people and friends who are abreast with his track records and antecedents as former Chairman of Oju Local Government Council.

According to some pundits of Benue politics, his (Ogaji) scintillating performance as Executive Chairman of Oju could only be compared to that of the first Executive Governor of Benue State, late Aper Aku, who was called upon (elected governor) to replicate his unequivocal strides as Chairman of Kwande Local Government, across the state.

Chief Bright Igodo Ogaji, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Synergy Group of Companies - comprising oil and gas, tourism and hospitality, as well as automobiles with branches in Nigeria and the United States, was nicknamed "I Go Do", an anglicisation of his middle name 'Igodo' - because of his dispositions to doing good and his integrity of keeping to his words.

During his recently concluded consultation tour of the nine local government areas in Benue South Senatorial District, Chief Ogaji reiterated his commitment to people oriented, participatory and all-inclusive leadership and service.

"As an individual, I stand to represent you in the red chamber to bring the needed leadership and stewardship on behalf of the good people of Zone C. And I tell you this again, you know leadership is all about the people. Representative is all about service. And when you want to serve the people, it is not possible for you to bring the biggest man in your community to serve you. Is it possible? Will you be able to send him a message? Will you be able to send him on an errand? He would rather lord himself over you. But this is just me as common as I am, just like all of us here. 

You can come to me. I can come to you. You can access me. And we can interface and discuss on issues. What I will represent for the good people of Zone C is participatory service," the Senatorial hopeful stated, while addressing stakeholders in one of the local government areas.

While Chief Bright Ogaji has not based his campaign on sentiments, it is on record that all the sections that made up Benue South Senatorial District, viz: Old Otukpo, Old Okpokwu and Old Oju, had produced Senators except Old Oju where, Chief Ogaji hails from. 

Apart from the fact that it is the turn of his own section (Old Oju/Igede) to produce the next Benue South Senator, Chief Hon. Bright Igodo Ogaji, who holds B.Sc. (Hons) and M.Sc. degrees in Criminology and Security Studies as well as Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from the National Open University of Nigeria, has the resumè and capacity to lead even the United States of America.

He embodies the hopes and aspirations of the marginalized people of Zone C; the Igedes, the Ufias, the Akweyas, the Agatus, the Ezzas. He is also a symbol of liberation for the entire Benue South Senatorial District which have been marginalized in Benue politics since the creation of the state. 

The election of an Igede man from a supposed minority section of Zone C as Senator will no doubt give more credibility to the call for an Idoma Governor in Benue State.

More so, history has shown that the people of the defunct Idoma Division (Benue South Senatorial District) are better united when an Igede man is at the helm of the Zone. It is a well known fact that Idoma land witnessed more progress during the reign of Agaba'idu Abraham Ajene Okpabi, Och'Idoma (II), an Igede man, than any other Och'Idoma. His (Okpabi) legacies are still palpable, even in the Idoma "red and black" traditional attire that has now gone global. 

Having an Igede person as Senator of Zone C entails that the people (of defunct Idoma Division) will have one voice, sociocultural and political renaissance as well as sense of belonging and ultimately, peace, unity and development.

Born on the 3rd March, 1973 to the family of late Pa Ogaji Ikoni of Epwa-Ibila, in Ibila Council Ward of Oju Local Government Area of Benue State, Chief Bright Ogaji, by dint of hard work and dedication, rose to the pinnacle of business world as Chief Executive Officer. His youthful hue, sagacity and eloquentness epitomizes the kind of leader the people of Benue South need to voice their concerns at the Senate.   

"My coming here today is not in anyway to preach any separating message. I have come to appeal to you. To the glory of God, I'm telling you today that I'm throwing my hat into the ring to contest for the position of the Senate representing the good people of Zone C: Not only the good people of Oju, not only the good people of Obi, not only the good people of Igede; but the good people of this unified family called the Idoma Nation," Ogaji stated during one of his meetings with stakeholders.

As delegates across the 102 council wards of Benue South warm up to elect the flagbearer of the PDP in the coming weeks, I cannot but appeal to the consciousness and collective sensitivity of the great people of Idoma, to consider the youngest but bravest contender, Chief Bright Ogaji as their choice, for the sake of equity, fairness and justice. 

Igede ronu! Idoma ronu!! Benue South ronu!!!

(Itodo writes from Otukpa, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State).

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has described as intolerable, murder of the Benue born Youth Corps member, Stephanie Se-Ember Terungwa, who was posted to Abuja by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for her one year mandatory national service.

Terungwa, a graduate of Microbiology from the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Benue State, was reportedly kidnapped alongside her one-year-old baby in the Lokogoma area of Abuja, some weeks ago and had been declared missing.

However, the baby was later found but the mother was still missing until the NYSC confirmed her death on Thursday, through its Director of Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa.

The corpse was said to be found wearing the NYSC khaki trouser with the face defaced beyond recognition and some parts of her body were tempered with. The security agencies subsequently identified the body as that of the missing Terungwa with State Code Number FC/21B/5807.

Governor Ortom while reacting, said Terungwa's death was one too many, calling on the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, to do all within his powers to fish out the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

"Just 6 months ago, the Vanguard newspaper's correspondent, Tordue Salem went missing in same manner in Abuja and was later found death. Up till now, no headway on the investigation.

"This death of Stephanie Terungwa should not go in same vein. The Inspector General of Police and other relevant security agencies should intensify efforts to fish out those behind these acts.

"This is one death too many for us and we shall not take this lightly. Our innocent farmers are not safe back home and their children whom they labour to train in school are being murdered in reckless manners, while in their places of service to the nation. The security must work with the management of NYSC to get to the roots of this", Ortom said.

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has charged communities in the state to always be ready to protect government infrastructures in their domain.

The Governor gave the charge Thursday, April 28th, 2022 when a delegation from  Ugondo Mega Layout community in Makurdi paid him a courtesy visit at the Benue Peoples House.

The delegation compromised leaders from Ayihe, Tigi, Tse-Shigh and Tse-Kwembe that make up the Mega Layout.

He said community leaders should ensure that criminals are not allowed to vandalise facilities provided for them by mobilising enough security to protecting them.

The Governor who lamented that an electricity transformer which Government had provided for the community was vandalized by hoodlums said communities need to take responsibility of Government infrastructure provided for them.

While appreciating the delegation from the Ugondo Community for recognizing the minimum efforts his administration has made in uplifting their living standards, Governor Ortom assured that more would be done for them and other communities.

He implored them to register or update their voter cards before the expiration of the registration exercise by the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, stressing that by doing so, they would be empowered to participate in the elections by voting credible people into office.

Spokesman for the delegation, Chief Emmanuel Nyiyongo had earlier thanked Governor Ortom for the efforts he has made in developing the state, especially in the area of roads construction and maintenance as well as opening up of streets within Makurdi and other major towns.

Nyiyongo who noted that the Ugondo Community has also benefitted from the Governor's development efforts however appealed to him to ensure that the road linking George Akume way through Ayihe, Tse-Shigh, Tigi, Tse-Kwembe to Yaikyo is constructed to assuage the suffering of the people.

By Esther Daniels

A top contender for the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency seat in Benue State, Chief Phillip Agbese, has picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination and expression of interest forms to contest in the 2023 general elections.

The UK-trained lawyer and media entrepreneur picked the form at the APC national headquarters, Abuja on Wednesday, amidst mammoth crowd.

He became the first aspirant to purchase the N10m nomination forms under APC for Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, otherwise known as Enone.

It was also gathered that the foremost philanthropist and humanitarian purchased the form without any form of financial assistance from any group or individual.

His purchase of the nomination form has sparked widespread jubilations amongst constituents who took to social media to congratulate him and expressed their joy in his candidacy.

Agbese had earlier toured the three local government councils in Enone, where he formerly declared his intention to contest for the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Consistency House of Representatives seat in the 2023 general election.

The youth activist was seen presenting his purchased forms to the respected leader of the party from the region, Elder Barrister John Ochoga.

He was accompanied by his Director General, Barr. Akor Ikwuoche; former Chairman, Okpokwu LGC, Hon. Juliana Obetta; former Assembly candidate and Chieftain of the APC, Hon. Mathias Omikpa; amongst other stakeholders.

By Esther Daniels

Governor Samuel Ortom has ordered the immediate arrest of the leaders of the illegal group, 'Hunters and Forests Security Guards in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

On Tuesday April 26th, an illegal group known as Hunters and Forests Security Guards caused heavy security breaches on the streets of Makurdi and shaved a young lady's hair.

The Governor who distanced himself and administration from the activities of the illegal organisation who forcefully shaved a young lady's hair on the street of Makurdi saying "they are not an agency of the state government."

He maintained that the state government has no relationship with the Hunters security outfit and will not in anyway condone their operations in the state.

"The Hunters and Forest Security Guards is not a creation of the Benue State Government and we absolutely do not have any relationship with it in whatever form. As the Chief Security Officer of the State, I am appalled by the unlawful acts of these people and I condemn this in unequivocal terms and state categorically that my government has nothing to do with this group and its actions"

Governor Ortom stressed that his government does not condone injustice of any form and inhuman treatment of persons based on gender, social, political religious or ethnic segregation.

The Governor emphasized that as a government, which has been in the forefront of the fight against insecurity and all forms of injustice and discrimination against her people, he would not fold his arms and watch some lawless persons maltreat his subjects.

"I have repeatedly maintained that i will never allow criminals take over the state. Benue citizens are law-abiding and we cannot allow illegal bodies to operate and harass people here."

Consequently, the following persons who are leaders of the group have been arrested by the Police for breach of security in state.

Those arrested include Ajonye Peter, State Commandant, Leva Luther, Deputy Commandant, Jov Peter Charles, Admin Officer and Godwin Adinya, State Adviser.

The Governor charged the police to properly investigate those involved in the act and ensure that justice is done in order to serve as a deterrent to other persons or groups that may want to take laws into their hands to visit mayhem on innocent citizens.

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has denied borrowing money from his former Chief of Staff, Hon. Terwase Orbunde to prosecute his 2015 governorship elections.

Orbunde had in a letter dated 16th April, 2022, requested that the Governor reimbursed him to the tune of N160m, which he claimed he "invested" in Ortom's governorship campaign in All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2014.

According to him, the amount was a proceed of his property in Wuye, Abuja which he allegedly sold at that time; adding that, he would be needing the money to move his family out of the official apartments given to him in Commissioner's Quarters, Makurdi.

But Ortom, via his reply dated 23rd April, 2022, denied knowledge of any "investment" in his 2015 campaigns to the tune of N160m from his erstwhile Chief of Staff, even though he obliged to offer any kind of help to Orbunde, just as he has always been doing.

"The fact that we worked together in 2014 to realize my Governorship ambition cannot be over-emphasised. However, as the Chief visioner, I was always aware and in control of all the interventions from friends and associates aimed at prosecuting my elections and such were always acknowledged. I really cannot recall when we discussed and you made available or invested the sum of One Hundred and Sixty Million Naira (N160,000,000.00) in my campaign or election in 2015 or at any other time at all.

"As my political ally, if this request is coming from you for assistance, it would be understood and I can always assist as usual to the best of my ability. I am rather surprised that this appeal for reimbursement is coming after seven (7) years of my becoming Governor of Benue State and therefore, I consider same as made in bad faith, to say the least", Ortom said in his reply.

It would be recalled that, Orbunde, a native of Kwande Local Government Area, after resigning his appointment as Ortom's Chief of Staff late last year, went into the contest for Benue State Governorship in the 2023 elections.

He was, however, not favoured in the just concluded consensus arrangements by the Tiv stakeholders, as the position was rather zoned to the neighbouring Vandeikya Local Government Area, with the Speaker of Benue House of Assembly, RT. Hon. Titus Uba emerging from the area.

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has called on the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management to offer more interventions to victims of herdsmen attacks in the State as it is being done to other States across the country.

Governor Ortom stated this on Tuesday, April 26th 2022 during the flagoff of the Victims Support Fund intervention programme in the State initiated by the TY Danjuma Foundation.

He expressed appreciation to General Theophilus Danjuma for his humanitarian works, saying through the Victims Support Fund, he has been able to assist the State to offer succour to victims of terrorism any time the State called on him.

Inaugurating the programme at the Ortese IDP camp, Guma local government area, leader of the Victim Support Fund team, Mrs Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji said the intervention was to support victims of attacks in six local governments in the State including Guma, Logo, Konshisha, Gwer West, Ado and Oju, pointing out that the intervention would involve monthly distribution of various food items to the victims for six months.

She explained that as captured in the programme, the VSF would offer interventions to the IDPs in the areas of health and medical facilities, rehabilitate the Naka Water Works, provide economic empowerment support as well as set up comfortable shelters for them.

Mrs Akerele-Ogunsiji further stated that the Victims Support Fund would also roll out a psycho-social and wellness programme for the victims to take care of their mental health, saying educational support would also be offered through registering the students for WAEC as well as JAMB examinations.

She bemoaned the level of destruction that has been caused to Benue communities by the herdsmen attacks over the years and enjoined other local and international organisations to assist in alleviating the plight of the victims.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Professor Magdalyn Dura and Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency, Dr Emmanuel Shior in separate remarks, commended the Victim Support Fund for the intervention and appealed for expansion of the programme to cover more local government areas in the State.

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has charged his appointees to actively participate in the forthcoming Local Government election and the PDP Ward Congresses.

The council elections and the ward Congresses have been slated to take place simultaneously on Saturday, April 30th, 2022.

Addressing the appointees at the New Banquet Hall, Benue People's House, Makurdi, on Monday, April 25th, 2022, Governor Ortom charged the appointees to go back to their various communities and work in synergy with party leaders to ensure the success of the two exercises.

He tasked them to cooperate with one another during the ward Congresses where three ad-hoc delegates are expected to emerge for a successful conduct of the exercise.

He explained that the constitution of the PDP encourages zoning and consensus, saying the emergence of Engineers Benson Abounu from Benue South and Titus Uba from Benue North East senatorial district  was done transparently involving all the stakeholders from the three zones and will be concluded without any hitch.

Governor Ortom appealed to those that would emerge as delegates and other members of the PDP, including aspirants who may have lost out to accept the decision of the party regarding the selection of candidates and work together to ensure that the party comes out victorious in next year's elections.

Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Professor Anthony Ijohor who spoke on behalf of the appointees, expressed appreciation to Governor Ortom for always carrying them along and assured that they will abide by his directives.

By Esther Daniels

The senatorial ambition of former Executive Chairman of Oju Local Government and established business mogul, Chief Hon. Bright Igodo Ogaji, got yet another boost on Thursday, as stakeholders of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Apa and Agatu Local Government Areas of Benue State, threw their weight behind his aspiration to represent Benue South at the Senate in 2023.

The Senatorial hopeful while addressing the Apa PDP caucus at Ugbokpo, the local government headquarters, said that he is in the race to bring quality and effective representation to the people, stressing that he would run an all inclusive pattern of leadership and service if given the opportunity.

"With due respect to our past leaders who had held the position of Senator, they have given their best, they have served in their own ways to the best they could give us. And I think we should applaud them," Chief Ogaji stated.

His words, "yes, they [past senators] have tried. But I am coming to you differently as one of you, as your son, as part of this community. For you to see the need as community people that we are, so that for you to see the difference between sending a big a message and sending a small boy a message. Beginning from me, by the grace of God, as one of you like I said, in my own pattern of government and service as a Senator representing the good people of Zone C, I am going to run an all inclusive pattern of leadership and service, I am going to run people oriented pattern of leadership and service. And I am going to run people participatory pattern of leadership and service. This way, everybody voice will count. Your voice, your opinion, will count. And that is the only way we can collectively make the needed change that we are all clamouring for".

In their separate responses, Apa PDP Chairman, Hon. Joseph Otokpa, Leader of the Legislative council, Agaji Magaji, and Hon. Mrs. Blessing Adanu, who spoke on the be half of women, all expressed confidences in the ability of Hon. Ogaji to give the good people of Zone C fair, just and all inclusive representation, and assured him of the support of Apa delegates at the forthcoming primaries of the party.

Similarly, in Obagaji, the Agatu Local Government Headquarters, the PDP stakeholders gave the Senatorial hopeful their blessings while assuring him of maximum votes from Agatu delegates at the party's primaries.

The Agatu PDP Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Eche, Leader of the Legislative council, Hon. Ochekwu Alilu, Women leader, Hon. Mrs. Maria Ngaji, and Elder Fodio Achegbani, who spoke on the be half of the delegates, all hailed Chief Ogaji for his youthful hue, courage and eloquentness, stressing that he is the kind of leader that the people need to voice their concerns at the red chamber.

Earlier, Chief Ogaji told the Agatu caucus that he is well acclimatized with the sufferings and yearnings of the people of Agatu, having come from a humble and deprived section himself.

He reiterated his promise to run a just and all inclusive pattern of representation if given the mandate as Benue South Senator in 2023.

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has asked the families of the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Engr Benson Abounu and Chief Akange Audu to take solace in God over the unfortunate deaths of their loved ones.

He stated this Sunday, April 24th, 2022 when he paid condolence visits on the two families over the death of their relations.

The deputy Governor lost his second son, Michael Abounu while Chief Audu lost his wife, Juliana Audu in the early hours of Sunday, April 23rd.

He admonished them to be comforted in God, stating that the Lord gives life and takes at his appointed time.

"As Christians, when things like this happens we can not do anything except to give glory to God"

Engineer Benson Abounu in an emotion laden voice thanked the Governor for the visit, stating that his visit has brought a lot of comfort to the family.

On his part, Akange Audu appreciated the visit of the governor, stating that the family is consoled by the fact that the deceased loved God and died as a Christian.

Mrs Juliana Audu was a former Chairman of Makurdi Local Government.

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has asked the families of the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Engr Benson Abounu and Chief Akange Audu to take solace in God over the unfortunate deaths of their loved ones.

He stated this Sunday, April 24th, 2022 when he paid condolence visits on the two families over the death of their relations.

The deputy Governor lost his second son, Michael Abounu while Chief Audu lost his wife, Juliana Audu in the early hours of Sunday, April 23rd.

He admonished them to be comforted in God, stating that the Lord gives life and takes at his appointed time.

"As Christians, when things like this happens we can not do anything except to give glory to God"

Engineer Benson Abounu in an emotion laden voice thanked the Governor for the visit, stating that his visit has brought a lot of comfort to the family.

On his part, Akange Audu appreciated the visit of the governor, stating that the family is consoled by the fact that the deceased loved God and died as a Christian.

Mrs Juliana Audu was a former Chairman of Makurdi Local Government.

By Esther Daniels

Governor Samuel Ortom and his Deputy, Engineer Benson Abounu on Saturday, April 23rd joined other dignitaries to witness the burial of Mrs. Judith Obla, wife of former chairman of Otukpo, Chief Godwin Obla, SAN.

In his funeral oration, Governor Ortom poured ecomiums on Mrs. Obla, describing her as his personal friend and a woman who related well with everyone, irrespective of their political affiliations.

The Governor who stated that both the Obla family and the entire state would feel the vacuum that has been created by her demise, however expressed hope that God would give her loved ones the heart to bear the pains.

He said that the presence of members of leaders of various political parties in the state is a sign how the family of Chief Obla lived a life by impacting others in the society.

Earlier in his sermon, Reverend Innocent Oyifioda who described death as the beginning of another world where every individual shall receive God's judgement, urged Christian's to always be ready when God would call them back and in order to gain eternity.

Reverend Oyifioda called on all to live with  eternity in mind by impacting lives of humanity.

The burial ceremony which took place at Ogobia, Ugboju in the Otukpo Local Government area was also attended the by the Senator representing Benue South senatorial District, Senator Abba Morro and other top political, military and the legal profession.

By Esther Daniels

PRESS STATEMENT

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has commiserated with the government and people of Oyo state over the transition to the great beyond of the Alaafin of Oyo , Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.

Governor Ortom in a condolence message to his Oyo state counterpart, Seyi Makinde described the late Oyo monarch as a brave and courageous king who did everything possible to preserve the culture and tradition of his people.

He noted that Oba Adeyemi’s reign witnessed peace and unity of the kingdom, which created the enabling environment for growth and development, not just in Oyo State but also in Nigeria.

Ortom lamented that the late monarch departed at a time when his wisdom and wealth of experience was needed to navigate through the the murky waters of politics and the national insecurity threatening the corporate exitence of our dear country, Nigeria.

He went on, “Oba Adeyemi was a respected royal father who was conscious about the peace and unity of his kingdom and the nation. We shall miss his tutelage and wise counsel”, the governor stressed.

He however admonished the people of Oyo state to take solace in the fact that the late monarch lived an eventful and accomplished life worthy of emulation.

The Governor asked the governor of the state to immortalize the Oba in recognition of his sacrifices and contributions to the development of the society.

By Esther Daniels

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has charged couples to love and submit to each other in order to have a successul union.

The Governor gave the charge Friday, April 22nd, 2022 at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Nyiman where he witnessed the wedding of Mr. Benjamin Ngutsav and Lucy Atsaga.

He explained that as people who are coming from different backgrounds, there is bound to be misunderstanding, saying with Love and submission to each other, they can conquer.

Governor Ortom expressed appreciation to Benjamin and Lucy for honouring God and their parents by going through with the Holy Union and urged their peers to emulate them

The Governor also thanked the couple for their commitment, diligence and dedication to work, adding that as pioneer staff of Benue Television, they have worked hard to add value to the development of the station.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. James Tartor who centred his message on the golden secrets of marriage enjoined the couple to develop good managerial skills to be able to handle every situation that might arise during the marriage.

In another development, Governor Samuel Ortom led other members of the state Executive Council to pay a condolence visit on the Benue State Organizing Secretary of the PDP, Hon. Moses Audu who lost his wife, Rose Member Audu.

Governor Ortom who described her death as unfortunate and painful, however, said death was an inevitable end for all and encouraged the family to have faith in God to take care of them.

The Organizing Secretary of the PDP and husband of the deceased, Hon. Audu thanked Governor Ortom for finding time to visit the family to commiserate with them.

He prayed God to bless him as he continues to reach out to others who may be in similar situations.

The Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Tivlumun Nyitse, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr Michael Gusa, Dr. James Anbua and Hon. Abrahams Kwaghngu and other members of the cabinet.

By Esther Daniels

Former Chief of Staff to Benue State Governor and 2023 Governorship Aspirant, Terwase Orbunde, has assured his supporters that his aspiration was alive and achievable.

Orbunde said while addressing close associates in Makurdi, on Thursday, 21st April, 2022, that the assurance became necessary following concerns raised through persistent phone calls and messages of inquiry about his political future.

He stated that the more he has reflected on the inspiration to offer service to Benue people as Governor, their support and goodwill, the more he was convinced that his decades of political tutelage and apprenticeship contained the resilience to withstand and overcome obstacles on the way to Government House.

The former Chief of Staff stressed that recent developments with regard to the governorship race and his participation were challenges that could be overcome by the grace of God and the support of the people.

He solicited prayers and sustained support for God's will to prevail in his political career and promised to issue a more comprehensive statement on his involvement in the election process as soon as he has concluded ongoing consultations.