2027: Alia dismisses speculations of replacing dep gov

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State on Monday dismissed speculations suggesting a possible change of deputy governor in 2027, declaring that the office is not vacant. Alia, speaking during the swearing-in of new commissioners at the Government House in Makurdi, said his deputy, Sam Ode, remains fully trusted and capable of discharging his duties. “There […]

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State on Monday dismissed speculations suggesting a possible change of deputy governor in 2027, declaring that the office is not vacant.

Alia, speaking during the swearing-in of new commissioners at the Government House in Makurdi, said his deputy, Sam Ode, remains fully trusted and capable of discharging his duties.

“There is no vacancy for any Deputy Governor in 2027. I have a deputy governor who understands governance, who is people-oriented, cerebral and committed to the people,” Alia said.

He stressed that he has never contemplated replacing Ode, whom he described as dependable and aligned with his vision for Benue.

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“For anyone thinking otherwise, I do not know. My deputy is very capable; he understands what is good for Benue, and that is what he is doing exactly. If anybody is eating and dreaming deputy, there is no vacancy,” the governor emphasised.

Alia added that beyond official duties, he enjoys a cordial personal relationship with Ode and urged detractors to stop fuelling unnecessary speculations.