Benue 2027 gov'ship: Kwande stakeholders reject endorsement of Kwande indigenes, pledge loyalty to Gov Alia

By Benedicta Aboh

Stakeholders from Kwande and Ushongo Local Government Areas (LGAs) have firmly rejected claims that any aspirant from the Kwande Intermediate Area has been endorsed for the 2027 Benue State governorship race.

Addressing reporters on Monday at the Benue State NUJ House in Makurdi, the coalition, which includes political leaders, traditional rulers, clergy, youth and women groups, and professional associations, spoke through its spokesman, former Ushongo LGA Chairman, Mr. John Moughsha.

Mr. Moughsha described the purported endorsements as “misguided, unpatriotic, and self-serving,” insisting that the pronouncements did not represent the will of the Kwande people.

“Such premature and diversionary politicking is injurious to the career and political prospects of any individual being pushed forward. It is important to state unequivocally that the voices behind these claims speak only for themselves.”

The stakeholders highlighted that Kwande remains firmly aligned with the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia, who hails from the Jerchira Intermediate Area, praising his record of inclusive governance and development.

“Governor Alia’s leadership reflects the justice and progress long demanded by our people. Kwande stands with him because his administration embodies fairness, equity, and transformative leadership.”

The group pointed to the backing of the Tiv Traditional Council Worldwide, led by His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse, the Tor Tiv V, noting that the blessing for Governor Alia’s continuity “reflects the collective wisdom, unity, and long-term interest of the Tiv nation.”

Moughsha emphasized specific achievements of Governor Alia, saying, “From roads to hospitals, schools, and rural development projects, the Governor has transformed communities across Benue State, including Kwande and Ushongo.”

The stakeholders further credited Governor Alia with restoring public confidence through consistent payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities. “Workers and retirees have regained dignity under his administration,” Moughsha added.

He also noted the administration’s economic empowerment programs. “Farmers, traders, and youths in Kwande have benefited immensely from agricultural support, rural road interventions, and economic empowerment initiatives,” he said.

On security, the coalition stated that Alia’s efforts have stabilized border communities. “Peace has returned to our towns, enabling uninterrupted farming, trade, and community development,” a member said.

The group warned against disrupting the Governor’s tenure, stressing that it would derail ongoing reforms and development projects. “Any attempt to interrupt this progress would be detrimental to the people of Kwande and Benue State at large,” they added.

The stakeholders outlined ten reasons why Kwande should support Governor Alia’s 2027 continuity, starting with equity and justice. “Since the creation of Benue State, Jerchira has never completed two uninterrupted terms. Supporting Alia restores fairness and political balance.”

They also highlighted strategic reciprocity. “Backing Alia from 2023-2031 positions Kwande to produce his successor in 2031. When Jerchira finishes well, Kwande begins strong,” he said.

The group cited unprecedented development as another reason. “No other administration has delivered rural roads, hospitals, schools, and infrastructure at the level of Governor Alia, comparable only to the era of Aper Aku."

On inclusion, they said, “Kwande has enjoyed significant appointments, projects, and representation under his administration. This is visible, fair, and measurable.”

The leaders also emphasized the moral and disciplined nature of Alia’s leadership. “His priestly background continues to reflect in integrity-driven, accountable governance cherished by our people,” Moughsha added.

Regarding continuity for sustainable progress, they warned, “Interrupting Alia’s tenure now risks halting ongoing reforms and development projects critical to Benue’s growth.”

The group underscored Kwande’s vision beyond 2031. “Supporting Alia for 2027 continuity creates a natural, undisputed pathway for Kwande to take the lead in 2031,” Moughsha said.

Finally, addressing the purported endorsement, the coalition dismissed it as “fabricated and politically mischievous.” “How can APC appointees and elected officials of an APC-led Federal Government be ‘endorsed’ by individuals claiming to be PDP stakeholders? The narrative is false, contradictory, and entirely illegitimate,” they emphasized.