PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Use
Engr. Peter Ashiekaa calls for support to the Governor Alia’s administration
…enjoins Ushongo people to rally round Commissioner Denis Iyaghigba
…..Hon. Iyaghigba lauds Governor Alia’s giant strides
A renowned Benue political tactician and respected community leader, Engr. Peter Ashiekaa, has called on the people of Ushongo Local Government Area and Benue State at large to give their unalloyed support to the administration of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
Engr. Ashiekaa made the passionate appeal on Sunday while playing host to the newly inaugurated Benue State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Terzungwe Iyaghigba, at his private residence in Makurdi, the Benue state capital.
While expressing gratitude to Governor Alia for finding one of his illustrious brothers worthy to serve in the State Executive Council, Engr. Ashiekaa urged the Ushongo people to unite behind the Commissioner and the Alia-led government in order to accelerate development in the area and across the state.
“Governor Alia has shown trust and confidence in us by appointing one of our own into this critical portfolio. Ushongo is known to be the pathfinder in several fronts and you are not an exception. You have always made us proud and we look forward for the same Midas touch in this current position”, Engr. Ashiekaa said.
“I call on all well-meaning Ushongo sons and daughters to rally round Honourable Iyaghigba and support the governor’s vision for a prosperous Benue”, he added.
He further charged the Commissioner to bring his over two decades of sectoral wealth of experience in marine, shipping, oil and gas, coupled with his proven administrative acumen, to bear on his new assignment, ensuring that the ministry contributes positively to the overall success of the Alia administration.
In his response, Hon. Denis Iyaghigba expressed deep appreciation to Engr. Ashiekaa for his unwavering support, describing him as a father figure and “worthy ally” whose words of encouragement would serve as an added motivation to deliver excellent results.
“I am humbled by this show of solidarity, I promise to justify the confidence reposed in me by Governor Alia and our people by working tirelessly to make a positive impact through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
“My major pre-occupation and that of my team is to ensure that we maximally serve as good ambassadors of His Excellency Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia and key into his developmental strides”, Hon. Iyaghigba added.
The visit, which was marked by warm interactions and strategic discussions on how Ushongo indigenes can leverage opportunities for collective progress, had in attendance several prominent personalities, including Dr. Samuel Iyaghigba, Hon. Mark Shie, Hon. Richard Imoter Nomkpo, Officer Thedeaus Iyaighgba, Hon. Terhemen Atii, Mr. Lubem Gena, Mr. Harris Dera, Mr. Moses Akorchioga, Prophet Isaiah Gbem, and Mr. Ephraim Makar.
The event demonstrated the growing consensus among political leaders and stakeholders in Ushongo to work collaboratively in supporting Governor Alia’s administration and ensuring that the appointment of one of their own translates into tangible benefits for the people.
See images as attached.
Signed:
Lubem Gena, FIIM
Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation Office of the Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy
Sunday, 7th September, 2025
