Benue Deputy Speaker endorses vote of confidence on Gov Alia, applauds women empowerment, development strides

By Benedicta Aboh

The Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Chief Hon. Mrs. Lami Danladi Ogenyi, has expressed strong support for the vote of confidence passed on Governor Hyacinth Alia, describing it as well-timed and merited by the administration’s achievements in governance.

Mrs. Ogenyi gave her backing while contributing to a motion moved by Pharmacist Thomas Dugeri on the floor of the House, where she highlighted what she described as unprecedented inclusion of women in leadership positions under the current administration.

Introducing herself as the lawmaker representing Ado State Constituency and Deputy Speaker of the 10th Assembly, she said the decision to support the motion was based on the governor’s performance, particularly in empowering women.

“This is the first time in the history of Benue State that women have been given such opportunities in governance,” she said. “We have a female Deputy Speaker, a female Secretary to the State Government and a female Chairman of SUBEB. We asked for 35 per cent affirmative action and the governor has given us more than that.”

Speaking on behalf of women in the state, the Deputy Speaker declared their total support for Governor Alia, noting that his administration had surpassed expectations in several sectors.

“Your Excellency, the women of Benue State are solidly behind you. You have given us more than we asked for, and we appreciate all the opportunities you have brought to our people,” she stated.

Mrs. Ogenyi also commended the governor’s infrastructure drive, with special emphasis on road projects in Ado Local Government Area. She said a key road abandoned for about 25 years had now been rehabilitated, significantly improving movement and access to healthcare.

“The Ado people are grateful for the road that was abandoned for decades but has now been fixed. Our pregnant women no longer suffer or die because of bad roads, and our people can move freely,” she said.

She further praised the administration for landmark projects such as the construction of the first underpass in Benue State, improved road networks, street lighting and notable progress in the health sector.

According to her, the upgrade of facilities at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital has reversed medical tourism out of the state. “We no longer travel to Zaria for treatment; instead, people now come from Zaria to Benue because of the quality doctors and facilities we have,” she noted.

On education, the Deputy Speaker lauded the recruitment of over 20,000 teachers, describing it as a major boost to the quality of education in the state.

She concluded by reaffirming her support for the vote of confidence and offering prayers for the governor. “You have done exceedingly well in every aspect of governance, especially in including women. We will continue to support and pray for you, and by God’s grace, your second tenure will be smooth,” she said.