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The Council of Chiefs in Iwukem, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa-Ibom State, has conferred an honorary chieftaincy title on Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, in recognition of his leadership and positive influence beyond state boundaries.
The title, ‘Obong Ibereidem Iwukem’ (the Pillar of Obong Ibereidem Iwukem), was bestowed on the governor during a thanksgiving mass at St. Joseph Parish, Iwukem, held in honour of the late Chief Sir Bernard Abraham Adaka KSJI, father of CSP Justin Adaka—the Chief Security Officer to Governor Alia.
In a parallel gesture of appreciation, a street within the community was officially named Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia Street. The dual honour underscores the mutual respect, goodwill, and strong ties between the people of Akwa-Ibom and Benue States, as well as Governor Alia’s far-reaching impact across regional lines.
The Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. Sam Ode, received the title and street naming on behalf of Governor Alia. In his remarks, Barr. Ode expressed deep gratitude to the Iwukem community, its traditional leaders, and the entire Etim Ekpo people for the prestigious recognition extended to the Benue State chief executive.
The event highlighted the cross-state camaraderie fostered by shared values, security collaboration, and personal relationships among leaders and citizens of both states. Chief Solomon Iorpev, Technical Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Media, Publicity, and Strategic Communication, confirmed the development in a statement.
The conferment and street naming are widely seen as a testament to Governor Alia’s growing stature as a unifying figure whose leadership style and policies continue to earn admiration far beyond Benue.
