Benue State Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, has urged heads of agencies and parastatals to support Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration to propel the state to greater heights rather than criticizing it.
Dr. Ode made this call on Wednesday during a condolence visit by the Forum of Heads of Agencies at Government House, Makurdi. He described the agencies as the engine room for economic growth and appreciated Governor Alia for appointing credible individuals to lead the agencies.
“The governor cannot do everything alone. We must support him, not just in words but through our actions and performance,” he said
Dr Ode appreciated Governor Hyacinth Alia for his visionary leadership and commitment to development through strategic appointments and creation of key agencies. He commended the transformation witnessed across sectors and encouraged the Forum to remain united and committed to good governance.
The Deputy Governor thanked the Forum for their show of love and support during the loss of his brother and mother-in-law, which he described as devastating. He noted that the love from various groups had eased his pain.
“God used those events to speak to me,” the Deputy Governor said, adding that he found peace through faith and the outpouring of support from the Benue State Executive Council, religious communities, and his colleagues.
Speaking on behalf of the Forum, Dr. Terna Francis, Executive Secretary of Benue State Education Quality Assurance, described Dr. Ode as a leader who has always stood by members of the Forum, saying the aim of the visit was to condole him over the loss of his loved ones.
“Your Excellency, you are a father and leader to us. Your composure and words have often consoled us during our own trying times. Today, we come to return that gesture of love and support to you,” Dr. Francis stated.
Other members of the Forum, including Dr. Matthew Onoja, Executive Secretary of the State Hospital Management Board, and Dr. Patience Achakpa-Ikyo, Director General of Benue Television, assured Dr. Ode of their support and prayed for God’s strength for him and his family.
Prayers were offered by Mr. Alexander Fanafa, General Manager of Benue Links Nigeria Limited, for God to console the Deputy Governor and his family, as well as for the Governor to overcome the challenges facing the state.
