Rt. Hon. Herman Iorwase Hembe, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Governorship Candidate for the 2027 Benue State Governorship Election, on Friday led a delegation of party leaders on condolence visits to the people of Otukpo-Nobi and Ondo-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area.
The visits followed the recent deadly attacks on the two communities by suspected Fulani militia terrorists masquerading as herders, a pattern of violence that has continued to devastate many communities across Benue State.
Addressing grieving residents, Hembe expressed deep sympathy over the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property. He assured the people that if elected Governor in 2027, his administration would prioritize the security of lives and property from the very first day in office.
According to him, “The primary responsibility of government is the protection of the lives and property of its citizens, not the interests of aggressive outsiders.” He emphasized that Benue people deserve a government that is proactive, responsive and fully committed to safeguarding every community from violent attacks.
In their responses, community leaders lamented what they described as neglect, abandonment and betrayal by the current administration in the face of persistent insecurity. They expressed appreciation to Rt. Hon. Hembe and the ADC leadership for identifying with them during their time of grief and for bringing a message of hope to the affected communities.
The ADC gubernatorial candidate and his entourage also paid a condolence visit to the Palace of the Och’Idoma, where they commiserated with the Idoma Area Traditional Council over the tragic loss of lives in the kingdom.
Speaking at the palace, Hembe urged traditional rulers across the state to remain non-partisan, stressing that the strength and credibility of traditional institutions lie in their ability to serve as impartial fathers and rallying points for all sons and daughters of their respective communities. He reaffirmed his commitment to building a secure, united and prosperous Benue where every citizen can live, work and farm without fear.
