16/10/2024
COURTESY VISIT, CONGRATULATORY, & APPRECIATION MESSAGE
It was a great honor and privilege to attend the Local Government inauguration in Ogbadibo LGA, Benue State, on Friday, August 11th, 2024. The event brought together the new leadership of our local government, including the Executive Chairman, Comrade Hon. Sunday Ajunwa, the Secretary, the House Leader, and the distinguished Councillors. I had the unique opportunity to engage with them and witness firsthand their commitment to serving our people. As a proud son of Ogbadibo, I left the event filled with hope and optimism for the future of our local government.
On the eve of the inauguration, I also paid a courtesy visit to the newly inaugurated Executive Chairman, Comrade Hon. Sunday Ajunwa, to congratulate him on his assumption of office. During our conversation, I expressed my excitement about the leadership of our local government, and we had a fruitful exchange about the future of Ogbadibo. As the National Senate President of the National Union of Benue State Students (NUBESS) and the Coordinator of Youth Voice for Governance, I emphasized the importance of prioritizing youth and community needs, especially in education and agricultural development. As a humble leader, Comrade Hon. Sunday Ajunwa welcomed these ideas, demonstrating a leadership style that is open, inclusive, and people-focused.
In the course of the inauguration, the Executive Chairman and the Honorable Councillor representing Itabono Ward II, Hon. Fredrick Enenche, spoke words that truly resonated with me: “As we embark on this noble journey, we look forward to your continued support, cooperation, and collaboration. Together, we will strive to address the pressing needs of our community, foster growth, and create opportunities for all.” These words highlight a leadership vision built on unity and progress, and I stand ready to offer my unwavering support, alongside the youth and students of Benue State, in achieving these noble goals.
I was particularly inspired by the emergence of the youth-vibrant Hon. Iyanda Ogbada Peter (Obey), Councillor representing Ehaje Ward II, as the House Leader, as well as the appointment of a dynamic woman from Itabono I. The diversification of leadership positions across all districts in Ogbadibo (Otukpa, Orokam, and Owukpa) underscores a commitment to inclusivity, equity, and fairness. This is a testament to the people’s choice, as evidenced by the enthusiasm and celebration during the inauguration.
Let me clarify that my visit and participation in the event had nothing to do with political affiliations or the outcome of the election. It was not a platform to assess whether the leaders were genuinely elected or selected, as some have claimed. Rather, I visited in my capacity as a youth and student leader, and as a proud member of Ogbadibo, to celebrate the new leadership. The period of politics and campaigns is behind us; now is the time for leadership—leadership that serves the people, regardless of political affiliation. A leader, regardless of party, deserves our respect, and I implore the new administration to always consider the best interests of the people in every decision they make.
Furthermore, I used the opportunity to interact with the youth from various communities, encouraging them to remain law-abiding, to embrace peace, and to work together in unity. I emphasized the need for our youth to reject violent politics and to refuse being used as tools of destruction. Our focus must be on progress, cooperation, and the shared goal of building a better future for our communities.
Hon. Enenche Fredrick, in his appreciation message, said it best: “This victory is not just mine; it belongs to each and every one of you. Your collective efforts have paved the way for a brighter future for our community, and I pledge to work tirelessly towards the development and progress of Itabono Ward II.” His words reflect the true spirit of leadership and service, and I am proud to stand by his side in the journey ahead.
Finally, I call on all political leaders and local governments across Benue State to embrace the transformative leadership of our Executive Governor, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. Governor Alia’s vision is steering Benue State away from "stomach politics" (the short-sighted practice of distributing money to political cabals)—towards a future of industrialization, development, and people-focused leadership. His first year in office has already brought significant initiatives such as the Benue Fashion Hubs, ICT training programs, and skill acquisition schemes, alongside major infrastructure developments across the state. Despite the economic challenges Nigeria faces, Governor Alia continues to push forward with projects that will benefit all, not just a select few. I am confident that by aligning with his vision, we can usher in even more progress for our communities.
I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who continues to believe in and support the call for good governance. Together, with your ongoing cooperation, we will continue to effect positive changes in our communities and our state.
Thank you.
Comrade ISHALU CLEMENT
(National Senate President, NUBESS)
Coordinator, Youth Voice for Governance -FCT Abuja ~ 15/10/2024
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