“Gov. Alia not planning to replace me,” Benue deputy governor shuts down rumours

By Onyeje Abutu-Joel

The Deputy governor of Benue State, Mr Sam Ode, has said rumours circulating on the social media suggesting he might be replaced ahead of the 2027 general elections were intended to create unnecessary confusion within the political space.

“There is no truth in the speculation that Governor Alia intends replacing me with Ojotu Ojema or anyone else,” Ode said at the funeral of Mrs Elizabeth Apochi on Friday in Owukpa, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of the state.

Sam Ode, who represented Gov. Hyacinth Alia at the event described the claims as baseless.

According to him, the falsehood was deliberately circulated to mislead the people of Benue South Senatorial District.

He stressed that the rumours should be ignored and assured residents that his working relationship with the governor remained cordial and focused on service delivery.

Ode also said if Ojema considered joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), he would be warmly received into the fold.

“Benue South is largely controlled by the APC. Ojema is the only representative from the zone outside the party. His inclusion would strengthen us,” he explained.

The deputy governor also urged respect for traditional institutions.

He warned politicians and social media users against dragging Idoma’s traditional ruler, Dr Elaigwu Odogbo John, into political intrigues.

The Deputy Governor called on stakeholders to concentrate on Governor Alia’s ongoing development projects rather than allow themselves to be distracted by divisive falsehoods circulating online.

Ode warned against attempts to create discord in Idoma community, stressing that the unity of the people remained their greatest strength and must be preserved.

He also advised residents, particularly in Ogbadibo, to participate in INEC’s Continuous Voters Registration exercise to secure their voting rights in future elections.

The deputy governor’s remarks were intended to douse social media speculation about possible political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls.

(NAN)