Benue deputy gov dismisses rumour of replacement in 2027

Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, on Friday dispelled reports that his principal, Hyacinth Alia, is planning to replace him in 2027.

Ode was reacting to claims by a group known as The Idoma Youth Patriotic Movement that Governor Alia was planning to replace him as deputy come 2027.

The group had earlier issued a statement signed by James Ochoga and Friday Adah, its President and Secretary respectively, in which it reiterated its support for Governor Alia’s re-election in 2027.

The statement read partly, “However, we are worried over the growing rumours going round Benue South Senatorial District that you have decided to replace your current Deputy Dr Sam Ode in 2027.

“This rumours are growing so fast and strong to the extent that some individuals who are not members of the progressive family are said to be among those being considered.

“As a body we do not have any power to choose who will run with you in 2027 but we appeal that should you decide to drop your current deputy, kindly considered those within th progressive family not opposition members.

“We fear that if this rumours are true the matter is capable of causing serious division in the Idoma land. This is because the current deputy governor is also a bonafide son of the Idoma nation and deserves equal treatment.

“He must not be treated with such disdain and disrespect. He deserves our respect. He has never been found wanting at least to our knowledge while serving in that capacity.”

ALSO READ: Sokoto govt partners UNICEF, EU-SUSI to increase social protection coverage

The group further alleged that supporters of a member of the House of Representatives representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, Hon. Ojotu Ojema, were already celebrating the purported move.

Responding to the statement on Friday while speaking with journalists, the deputy governor said the claims were unfounded and intended to sow confusion among the people of Benue South Senatorial District.

He said, “I want to make it clear that these rumours are baseless and should be disregarded.

He added, ‘there is no truth to the speculation that Governor Alia is considering replacing me with Hon. Ojotu Ojema, a member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, or with any other individual.’

While calling for respect towards traditional institutions, the deputy governor urged the people of Benue South and political stakeholders to focus on the ongoing development initiatives of Governor Alia and to avoid distractions from falsehoods that threaten the peace and unity of the zone.

Ode also warned those attempting to sow discord among political actors in Idoma land to desist from such acts.

The deputy governor said he has a personal relationship with the House of Representatives member being fingered to replace him.

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE