Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
Several political, opinion, and socio-cultural groups in Benue State have thrown their weight behind the 2027 governorship aspiration of Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Esq., MON, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.
The endorsements came during a series of thank-you visits paid to Dr. Akutah by delegations including the APC Tombo Concern Forum for Senator George Akume, the Forum of Selected Wives of Members of the Benue State House of Assembly led by Mrs. Jabi Nguevese, the Progressive Pastors Forum, and the Sankera APC Stakeholders Forum led by Retired Colonel Edwin Jando.
The visits were in appreciation of Dr. Akutah’s personal generosity in settling the hospital bills for Mr. Terver Shaaka, popularly known as Bob Shaaks—one of their sons—who recently underwent a second surgery to remove an implant from his leg following an accident. The Sankera delegation described the gesture as humane and compassionate, noting that his financial support and prayers played a key role in the success of the procedure.
Speaking during the interactions, Dr. Akutah reiterated that his desire to contest for governor in 2027 stems from a passion to reverse negative trends in the state, particularly in areas of accountability, infrastructural development, investment attraction, security of lives and property, and overall citizen welfare. He expressed confidence in his preparation to deliver purposeful, people-centered leadership that would accelerate development with broad support from the electorate and stakeholders.
He urged the people of Tombo—a subset of the Jemgbagh geopolitical bloc—to continue backing Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, whom he called “the pillar of modern democracy in Benue State,” stressing that sustained support for the SGF would bring greater democratic dividends.
In response, leaders of the various groups praised Dr. Akutah’s proven competence, integrity, and track record in public service, pledging unwavering support for his ambition. Representatives from the APC Tombo Concern Forum, Progressive Pastors Forum (comprising Pentecostal and NKST pastors), Forum of Selected Wives, and Sankera APC Stakeholders all assured him of grassroots mobilization, prayers, and full backing ahead of 2027.
The Sankera delegation, in particular, affirmed that the entire axis stands solidly behind Dr. Akutah, promising unalloyed loyalty as he pursues the governorship under the APC platform. The endorsements signal early momentum for the federal appointee as political alignments begin to take shape in Benue State.
