A former lawmaker from Oju II Uwokwu State Constituency, Okponya Okanga Joseph, has strongly criticised Deputy Governor of Benue State, H.E. Sam Ode, accusing him of attempting to interfere in the political fate of the constituency.
In a statement shared on the “Igede Firsts” platform, Okanga Joseph asserted that the Deputy Governor has no right to determine the political direction of Oju II Uwokwu, insisting that the constituency should be allowed to decide its own fate. He contrasted this with former Governor Samuel Ortom, whom he claimed previously disrupted the zoning arrangement in the area, leading to widespread unrest including the burning of houses and destruction of farmlands.
The former lawmaker accused Sam Ode of betraying his friend Isaac Arubi and the Cliq Oju II Unity Forum after they supported his emergence as the flag-bearer in 2018 through crowdfunding and collective effort. He further stated that the Deputy Governor has “no moral right” to speak against the incumbent seeking re-election.
Okanga Joseph also referenced the endorsement of Ikong Cyril Ijebe by the governor, describing the Deputy Governor’s reaction to it as lacking integrity. He urged Sam Ode to stay clear and allow the people of Oju II Uwokwu State Constituency to make their own political decisions.
The sharp rebuke highlights the ongoing tensions and zoning disputes within the Igede political landscape in Benue State as politicians position themselves ahead of future elections.
