2027: Kwande Stakeholders Back Gov Alia

Concerned stakeholders and leaders of Kwande and Ushongo local governments have disapproved of the purported endorsement of their kinsmen by selected persons to contest for the 2027 governorship race, describing it as misguided, unpatriotic, self-serving.

They also urged the public to disregard the endorsement.

Addressing the media, at the Benue State NUJ House Makurdi, the stakeholders, who spoke through the former chairman of Ushongo Local Government Area, John Moughsha, dismissed the purported endorsement saying, such an act is contrary to the collective will of Kwande people.

They insisted that the action of the few persons did not reflect the will of the Kwande people.

“Our vision is beyond 2027, so contesting with Governor Alia in 2027 will create a natural, undisputed pathway for Kwande in 2031.”

The stakeholders emphasised that Kwande remains firmly aligned with the current administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia who hails from Jerchira intermediate area, applauding the Governor’s developmental initiatives and inclusive governance.

They also affirmed their support and backing of the Tiv Traditional Council Worldwide, led by His Royal Majesty, the Tor Tiv, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ayatse, saying “the blessing for Governor Alia’s continuity reflects the collective wisdom, unity, and long-term interest of the Tiv nation.

According to the group, “the governor has delivered transformative infrastructure projects, including roads, hospitals, schools, and rural development initiatives with Kwande inclusive, we have enjoyed significant appointments, projects, and representation” under Alia’s administration.”

The leaders also commended the governor for restoring public confidence through regular payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities, as well as empowering farmers, traders, and youths through agricultural and economic programmes.

“We strongly believe that Alia’s priestly background has continued to reflect integrity, disciplined, and accountable governance deeply cherished by our people and we will not allow any of our sons or daughters to

“Any endorsement attempt by Kwande sons or daughters should be regarded as misguided, unpatriotic, self-serving, and represents a desperate effort to mortgage Kwande’s political future for narrow personal interest”

“We advise all sons and daughters of Kwande to remain focused on their noble responsibilities rather than be drawn into unrealistic, divisive, and ill-timed power projections”

Kwande remains firmly aligned with Governor Alia’s governance style, performance, inclusiveness, and fairness which reflect the justice and progress long demanded by our people”

“We call on all sons and daughters of Kwande and Ushongo and friends of our people across the State to reject divisive politics wholeheartedly and support Governor Alia’s second term bid, because when Jerchira finishes well, Kwande shall begin strong in 2031”