Former Minister of State for Niger Delta during Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, Mr. Sam Ode, has stated that power rotation to Benue South come 2023 would bring about integration, confidence building and harmonious relationship between all groups and ethnic nationalities that are found in the State.
Sam Ode, who stated this during a chat with journalists in his Makurdi resident, hinted of his desire to lead the state after the expiration of the tenure of Governor Samuel Ortom saying he has consulted widely with all Benue people including traditional rulers and all stakeholders towards getting their approval to run for the post.
Mr. Ode who would be contesting for the position of Governor of Benue state for the third time said there is a clamour for an inclusion which will take place in an atmosphere of peace and negotiation using the instrumentality of diplomacy as opposed to hostility to rotate power to Benue South Senatorial District where he hails from.
He noted that it is common knowledge that since the creation of Benue from Benue/Plateau State, people of Benue South district are yet to lead the State.
“I have witnessed a growing concern about this imbalance and good enough, there are great patriots from Zone A and B who are also agitating that it is time to pass the baton to our brothers in Benue South. We as Benue people are one, we are indivisible and we share the same challenges and have same prospects.
He, therefore, expressed the belief that power rotation to Benue South is something that would bring about integration and confidence building.
“It will engender harmonious relationship between all groups and ethnic nationalities that are found in this State. And when this happens, the notion that minorities can have their say will also find expression. I believe we have challenges and these challenges are surmountable”, Ode further said
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The All Progressives Congress, (APC) stalwart while insisting that the State earnestly yearns for development, the former minister said the State has remained in one spot while the rest of the world is moving on saying if given the opportunity to govern the state, he will make a difference.
“I know the State very well. I have functioned in the local government system, the State government structure and was privilege by the grace of God to function in the Federal cabinet and coupled with all the intellectual attainment, I believe that my thought process is properly positioned to serve the State.
He also lamented that the country is in great turmoil at the moment arising from incessant clashes between herders and farmers, urging the need for confidence and peace building so that Nigeria does not decline into anarchy.
“We are better off a strong, virile nation. So let us encourage our people to rekindle their hope in the new Nigeria where there will be equity, fair play, progress and development. We can only achieve this in an atmosphere of peace, love and unity,” he said.
