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A series of press statements released by the Ior-Jemgbagh Development Association (IJDA) and responses from local leaders have highlighted both significant development strides and ongoing tensions in Benue State under the leadership of His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
Development Achievements in Jemgbagh and Beyond
The IJDA, representing the people of Ior-Jemgbagh, has publicly acknowledged the governor’s commitment to the region’s progress. Key projects include the near-complete underpass construction in Gboko (95% done), the ongoing low coast to Old Barn to St. Joseph Catholic Church underpass at Gyado Junction under construction, and the completed road construction on Ikyese Street, Adekaa. Other notable initiatives include the construction of the Ateku-Ikperger-Akpegher road in Mbatiav, the installation of over 2000 solar-powered boreholes across Gboko LG, and the development of a storey building block at Primary School Agidi-Mbatiav, St. James Primary School Genyi Yandev, and Mbaanue basic health clinic-Mbatiav. Additionally, the establishment of a Science and Technical School in Ateku, Mbatiav, underscores the administration’s focus on education and infrastructure.
In a related social intervention program, the governor has facilitated the release of N150,000 to over 2,500 households in Jemgbagh, totaling N375 million, aimed at boosting local economic growth. Furthermore, 30 micro projects, including schools and motorized boreholes, have been awarded around Gboko, Buruku, and Tarka LGAs via the ALIA-CARES or BEN CARES program, benefiting local farming and investment activities with grants of up to N30 million.
Leadership Appointments and Community Representation
The governor has also appointed several individuals from the Jemgbagh extraction to key governmental roles, demonstrating inclusivity. Notable appointees include Hon. Tiza Imojime (Commissioner for Youth and Sports), Hon. Ahumo Orpin (Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment), and Hon. Joseph Ter Jir (Commissioner for Power, Transport, and Energy). Special advisers and other positions, such as Hon. Iyoo Igbondo (Special Adviser on Labour Unions) and Dr. Mark Nyitse (Director of Research and Publication), further reflect this commitment.
Response to Criticism
The IJDA has countered a recent press statement by the purported Jemgbagh Development Association, led by Prince Yandev Amaabaai, which criticized the governor. The IJDA clarified that the governor, despite being from the Jechira cultural block, has shown remarkable commitment to all regions without favoritism. They dismissed claims of mistreatment of Tor Jemgbagh HRH Afaiyo Ajoko and Ter Gboko, HRH Gabriel Shosum, asserting that Tor Jemgbagh’s stay in a government guest house was temporary, with a relocation requested after renovations of his permanent residence. The IJDA also refuted allegations of disrespect, noting a cordial relationship maintained through a recent Toyota Hilux Vehicle donation to Ter Gboko.
Political Tensions and Clarifications
The IJDA addressed political maneuvers, stating that the resignation of Aondona Dajoh as Speaker of the State House of Assembly was voluntary and unrelated to the governor. They labeled attempts to undermine the Speaker and the governor’s office as baseless and misleading, urging continued respect for the SGF, a distinguished Jemgbagh son. The association emphasized that the governor’s development efforts in Jemgbagh are unprecedented and called for cooperation rather than division.
In a final appeal, the IJDA, led by Secretary Tivlumun Aminde, urged all Jemgbagh sons, daughters, and Benue residents to support Governor Alia’s peaceful leadership and ongoing state development initiatives.
This unfolding narrative reflects a complex interplay of development progress and political dynamics, with the IJDA seeking to foster unity and rationalization amidst challenges.
