2027: I'll hand over to Benue South after four years, says ADC gov'ship candidate Hembe

By Johnson Arua

The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State, Mr. Herman Hembe, has vowed to spend only one term in office if elected in the 2027 governorship election, promising to hand over power to Benue South Senatorial District after four years.

Hembe made the pledge on Thursday in Makurdi during the unveiling of his running mate, Mr. John Abba, saying his decision was based on the need to uphold equity and fairness in the state's power-sharing arrangement.

According to him, the Jechira axis of Benue North West Senatorial District, where he hails from, is entitled to only the remaining four years of an eight-year governorship slot, after which power should shift to Benue South, a zone he noted has never produced an elected governor since the state's creation.

"We are coming to complete the remaining four years of the eight years allotted to the Jechira axis. Our administration will last for only one term, and thereafter the governorship should move to Benue South," he said.

The former lawmaker said his emergence as the party's flag bearer was ordained by God, stressing that although other aspirants were equally qualified, the party had made its choice. He appealed to members to close ranks and work together to secure victory for the ADC in the 2027 elections.

Hembe pledged that his administration would immediately grant full financial and administrative autonomy to local government councils, saying grassroots development could only be achieved when councils are allowed to function independently.

He further promised to prioritise investment in rural road infrastructure, potable water, electricity, agriculture, healthcare, education and human capital development, describing them as critical sectors for the economic revival of Benue State.

Speaking at the event, the deputy governorship candidate, Mr. John Abba, thanked the party leadership for the confidence reposed in him and assured supporters that an ADC administration would restore effective governance and improve the welfare of the people.

Also addressing party faithful, the ADC's Benue South Senatorial candidate, Dr. David Olofu, urged members to remain united and committed to the party's vision, expressing confidence that the ADC has the capacity to win the 2027 elections and provide purposeful leadership for the state.