Benue 2027: Kwande Bloc Gets Full Endorsement to Vie for Governorship

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Kwande Intermediary Area has secured a full endorsement to contest the Benue State governorship position in the 2027 general elections.

The convener of the Movement for the Actualization of Kwande Governorship Agenda (MAKGA), Ikyem Leonard, disclosed this in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Tuesday.

According to Ikyem, the endorsement followed extensive consultations with political leaders and other intermediate blocs across Tiv land. During a well-attended meeting in Ushongo Town over the weekend, the 84-member Kwande 2027 Inter-Party Governorship Advocacy Committee presented its report to party stakeholders and prominent sons and daughters of the area.

The Committee also received delegations from other intermediate areas who came to formally express their support for Kwande’s 2027 governorship ambition. Leaders of the Advocacy Committee, Elder Atsaga Anemba of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Barrister Vincent Uji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Zonal Chairman for Zone A, highlighted the extensive consultations and the widespread acceptance received across the state.

They explained that the consultation tour began with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and former Governor Samuel Ortom, before extending to Sankera, Jemgbagh, Gwer, and Lobi intermediate areas. Speaking on behalf of Jemgbagh, Hon. Laha Dzever described Kwande’s aspiration as legitimate and timely, stressing Jemgbagh’s resolve to support Kwande in order to correct long-standing political imbalances.

Ambassador Chive Kaave, representing Sankera, recalled the historic ties between Sankera and Kwande and pledged full support toward achieving political fairness. Similarly, Charles Torbunde of Lobi declared an unequivocal endorsement, commending Kwande for its early and strategic engagements, which he said earned Lobi’s enthusiastic backing.

On behalf of Gwer, ACG Peter Pevigo (Rtd) said Kwande’s consultations were sincere and well-received, while noting Gwer’s desire to produce the Governor of Benue State in the future. The Advocacy Committee therefore urged all eminently qualified sons of Kwande to formally declare their intentions and begin consultations, expressing confidence that the 2027 gubernatorial ambition stands on a solid political foundation.

Member representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency, Terseer Ugbor, addressed the constituents, who unanimously passed a vote of confidence in his performance. He reaffirmed his commitment to people-driven leadership, adding that he is praying, consulting widely, and would make an official declaration in due course.

Former Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Terwase Orbunde, delivered goodwill remarks and appealed for continued support as he continues to pursue his mandate to govern Benue State, a mission he had previously pursued in 2023.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Akutah, represented by Dr. Bem Dzoho, expressed support for the committee and sought the backing of the Kwande people to become the governorship candidate, while also pledging to support whoever emerges from the bloc. Similarly, Engr. Nick Wende, member representing North Central on the Board of the NDDC, represented by Vershima Utile, pledged support and apologized for his absence. Chief Michael Aondoakaa also sent apologies for being unavoidably absent.

The gathering concluded with a collective resolution that Kwande will stand with all its sons and that whoever emerges as a governorship candidate from any political party will enjoy the unified support of the Kwande people. MAKGA convener, Ikyem, expressed gratitude for the widespread endorsement and pledged to continue the advocacy to ensure Kwande produces the next Governor of Benue State.