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In a momentous New Year celebration held at Koti-Yough, Mbakyaha, Ute in Vandeikya Local Government Area, former Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Titus Uba, officially dumped the opposition PDP and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing Governor Hyacinth Alia as an embodiment of true brotherhood.
Fresh from a medical trip abroad, Uba explained that his decision was taken in good faith, citing unethical practices and ideological incompatibility within the PDP as key reasons for his departure. He recounted how, during his recent illness, party associates in the PDP abandoned him, but Governor Alia stepped in decisively by facilitating his treatment abroad, securing accommodation for his family in Abuja, and ensuring his safe return—actions Uba said saved his life.
The former Speaker praised the developmental strides of the Alia administration, urging the people of Kunav and Jechira to set aside differences and rally behind the Governor’s re-election in 2027, insisting that no leader since 1999 has served only four years and that Jechira cannot be an exception. He warned against deceptive political actors and declared Governor Alia’s second term non-negotiable.
In response, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the distinguished guest of honour who was adorned in full Tiv cultural regalia as a mark of respect, expressed overwhelming joy at Uba’s recovery and return to active public life. He described his support during Uba’s illness as the least a brother could do, stressing that Kunav and Jechira identity transcends political party lines and that genuine brotherhood must always prevail.
The Governor welcomed Uba into the APC with open arms, extending the same invitation to others still in opposition parties to come home and work together for Benue’s progress. He cautioned the people to be wary of overly ambitious individuals with little to offer society.
Several prominent voices, including Chief Edward Ashiekaa SAN, Chief David Amo, Mue Ter Kyan, Sir Augustine Aule, Vandeikya LGA Chairman Hon. Guda Terkura Dennis, President General of KUDA Deacon Emmanuel Tor Yaji, and Mr. Dominic Agaku of Ute Development Association, echoed calls for unity and oneness among Kunav and Jechira people. They thanked Governor Alia for saving the life of their son and brother, describing the gesture as worthy of emulation.
The well-attended event brought together traditional rulers, clergy, party stakeholders, opinion leaders, top government functionaries, and prominent sons and daughters of Kunav and Jechira both at home and in the diaspora, signalling a powerful moment of political realignment and communal solidarity as Benue steps deeper into 2026.
