From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
A group under the auspices of the Movement for the Actualisation of Kwande Gubernatorial Ambition (MAKGA) has renewed its agitation for the governorship of Benue State to move to the Kwande intermediate area to enable them to complete the tenure of former Governor Aper Aku.
The convener of the group, Hon. Leonard Ikyem, stated this while briefing newsmen in Makurdi on Wednesday.
Ikyem said, “We, the offspring of the dynamic, patriotic, and progressive people of the Kwande intermediate area, comprising Kwande and Ushongo Local Government Areas of Benue State, wish to inform the good people of Benue of our desire to renew the governorship ambition of the Kwande people in 2027.
“As we are all aware, the democratic process in Nigeria will open another chapter in 2027 with fresh opportunities, and we intend to mobilise our people to step forward and explore this new frontier.”
The group noted that the Kwande intermediate area’s intention to contest for the state’s highest elective position, which they canvassed for in 2023 but could not realise, remains valid.
They said the Kwande area has established a tradition of selfless, committed, and dedicated service to the people of the state in all areas of life. If given another opportunity, a Kwande indigene with the requisite qualifications, experience, and capacity “will not only sustain that tradition but surpass the yet-to-be-matched milestones achieved by Governor Apollos Aper Aku of blessed memory.”
The group stated that the Kwande governorship agenda, predicated on a solid desire to offer unparalleled service delivery, is not a new venture, as they are only seeking to complete an assignment that is yet to be realised.
They said that as offspring of confident patriots who have made sacrifices multiple times and provided proven, undeniable quality service to the state, they are confident that Benue would recognise their demand and reciprocate by giving them another opportunity.
The group stated that the greatest security challenges confronting the state remind them that Kwande once made solid contributions to the survival of inhabitants of the Benue Valley by providing a platform and rallying support that repelled deadly marauders in the past. They said that victory can be consolidated.
Describing the divisions, unnecessary polarisation in the polity, acrimony, and bitterness within the state as painful, they stated that these are signs that Benue has been waiting for Kwande, adding that they are ready with the solution.
They, therefore, solicited the support of the Benue electorate to sustain and actualise their ambition.