….Urges public to disregard opposing claims
By Lubem Gena, Makurdi
Kwande Stakeholders, led by former Ushongo Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. John Moughsha, have thrown their weight behind the incumbent Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, declaring their support for his re-election bid in 2027.
The group made the declaration during a media briefing on Monday, emphasizing that their position reflects the collective will of Kwande people and not the personal views of a few individuals.
Major participants at the meeting were: Benue state Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba; Prof. (Elder) Fidelis Aondover Gberindyer; Hon. Maurice Tsav; Barr. Terumbur Nyiatagher; Hon. Terver Kachina; Hon. Mkumaga Jombo; Hon. Sughur Humbe; Hon. Simon Tordue Nomanyam and Mr. Terzungwe Uzan.
Other stakeholders that caused appearance during the briefing are: Hon. Shior Terhemba; Hon. Terhemen Atii; Hon. Daniel Boor, Mr. Shisha Azenda, Hon. Bem Antyu and Mr. Teghtegh Vuulun.
Hon. Moughsha urged the general public—especially political actors within Benue’s Zone A—to disregard recent statements credited to Barr. Vincent Uji and Elder Atsaga Anemba, who advocated that the governorship seat should return to the Kwande extraction in the next election cycle.
The stakeholders stressed that such calls were purely personal opinions and did not represent the stance of the region’s broader leadership or populace.
According to Moughsha, Kwande stakeholders remain firmly aligned with Governor Alia, citing a combination of political, developmental, and moral grounds for their endorsement.
He listed fairness and equity as a major motivation, noting that Alia’s leadership has brought balanced representation and renewed inclusion of the Kwande bloc within the state administration.
He further explained that for the first time in several years, key appointments and government programmes have reflected the interests of the people of Kwande as a whole.
The group also argued that supporting Governor Alia offers a strategic political advantage, positioning Kwande to consolidate its relevance in Benue’s future political landscape.
They highlighted the governor’s unprecedented developmental strides, pointing to improvements in infrastructure, social services, and rural development since his assumption of office.
Hon. Moughsha further said Alia’s tenure has restored public confidence in governance, anchored on transparency and a leadership style he described as moral, disciplined, and God-fearing.
He added that the administration’s investments in security enhancement have contributed significantly to stability across several communities.
The stakeholders insisted that allowing Governor Alia to complete a second term would ensure continuity for sustainable development, preventing policy disruptions and guaranteeing the completion of ongoing projects.
They concluded by reaffirming their unalloyed support for the governor and called on all Kwande sons and daughters, irrespective of political affiliation, to rally behind him as the 2027 elections approach.
