By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
The Ior-Ijemgbagh Development Association on Friday distanced itself from a recent communiqué issued by the Jemgbagh Development Association, describing it as a misrepresentation of facts and an attempt to incite the people against Governor Hyacinth Alia.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Tivlumun Aminde, and made available to journalists, the association, which represents Jemgbagh sons and daughters across Gboko, Buruku, Tarka local government areas and in the diaspora, reaffirmed its support for the governor.
The group noted that Governor Alia, despite hailing from the Jechira bloc, has demonstrated inclusivity by appointing Jemgbagh indigenes into key positions in his administration and by initiating several development projects in the area.
They highlighted projects to include the nearly completed Gboko underpass, the Gboko ring road, rural road construction in Mbatiav, solar-powered boreholes, new school buildings, and a basic health clinic, among others which the governor has done.
The group also cited the governor’s social intervention programme, which released N150,000 each to over 2,500 Jemgbagh households, and several micro-projects in schools, clinics and water supply facilities.
On political concerns, the group clarified that the resignation of former Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Aondona Dajoh, was voluntary and not instigated by the governor, as alleged.
It also dismissed claims that Governor Alia disrespected Jemgbagh traditional rulers, insisting that his relationship with them remains cordial.
“The press release by the purported president of the Jemgbagh Development Association is falsehood aimed at causing disaffection. It does not represent the voice or position of the Jemgbagh people. We have not witnessed such unprecedented development in Jemgbagh as we are seeing under Governor Alia,” the statement read in part.
The association urged Jemgbagh indigenes and the people of Benue State to remain united and allow the governor to continue his development agenda in peace.
