SGF’s Kinsmen Commend Alia for Development Projects in Jemgbagh, Urge Continued Support

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Ior-Ijemgbagh Development Association in Benue State has commended Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia for the numerous developmental projects executed in the Jemgbagh intermediate area.

The group also appealed to the people of the state, especially the Jemgbagh community, to continue supporting the governor so he can deliver more democratic dividends.

Jemgbagh, which comprises Gboko, Buruku, and Tarka Local Government Areas, is home to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

Applauding the governor’s inclusive leadership style, the group pledged its full support, stressing that Alia has embraced all interests across the state in appointments and distribution of infrastructure.

In a statement signed by its secretary, Tivlumun Aminde, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi, the association distanced itself from an earlier statement by the Jemgbagh Development Association, which accused the governor of neglect and of undermining the SGF. The Ior-Ijemgbagh group described such claims as misleading and untrue.

“Despite being from the Jechira cultural bloc, our governor has demonstrated inclusivity by accommodating every interest across the state without favoritism. He has also shown strong commitment to the development of Jemgbagh just as he has done in other parts of Benue,” the group stated.

Highlighting some of the projects, the group listed the construction of an underpass in Gboko, now 95% completed; the ongoing Ring Road project in Gboko; Ikyese Street road in Adekaa; and the completed Ateku–Ikpenger–Akpegher road in Mbatiav. Other projects include over 2,000 solar-powered boreholes in Gboko LGA, new classroom blocks at Agidi-Mbatiav and Genyi Yandev, a health clinic in Mbaanue-Mbatiav, and the establishment of a Science and Technical School at Ateku, Mbatiav.

On social interventions, the group noted that more than 2,500 Jemgbagh households benefited from N150,000 each, totaling N375 million. In addition, 30 micro-projects covering clinics, schools, and boreholes were awarded across Gboko, Buruku, and Tarka LGAs under the ALIA-CARES (BEN CARES) initiative. Local cooperatives have also received grants worth over N30 million through the ACReSAL program to boost farming and investment activities.

The group further addressed concerns raised over the resignation of former Speaker Aondona Dajoh, clarifying that he voluntarily resigned, and the House of Assembly constitutionally elected a new speaker. They stressed that the governor had no hand in the matter.

Describing Senator George Akume as a respected leader at both state and national levels, the group urged Jemgbagh sons and daughters, as well as all Benue people, to support Governor Alia’s developmental agenda.

“The SGF remains a vital institution in our governance structure. We call on the public to disregard baseless claims and instead focus on promoting the government’s tangible achievements and the welfare of Benue people,” the group added.