From Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi

The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) in Benue State has issued certificates of return to the state Governor-elect, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, and his Deputy, Mr Sam Ode.

The commission also issued certificates to all the Benue state House of Assembly members elect.

Speaking during the event, the Benue state INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, (REC), Professor Sam Egwu, who noted that elections are over, urged the Governor-elect to focus on delivering good governance to the people of the state.

In his response, Rev Alia appreciated INEC for doing a good job during the election and for issuing them with certificates saying: “It is a great rest for us in the State. Today marks the beginning of a new Benue which I believe is very possible.”

Alia, who expressed confidence that the members elect will provide work-friendly environment, said: “I remain hopeful in an assembly that will produce and create avenues for peace, and economic growth by making all assertions meaningful for the State.

He said his administration “will apply this trust maximally, optimally to the benefit of the State. We will not take this trust of yours for granted. We remain indebted to all who make this day possible.

Related News

“We will remain loyal and patriotic to the tenets of our nation. We will remain faithful and great citizens of the State and nation.

“We look forward to working with different groups and all parties in the State. We are looking forward to taking our state to great heights. We must all be architects of a new face of Benue.”

The Governor-elect promised to make the civil service which is the engine room of the state functional.

The Deputy Governor-elect, Mr Sam Ode, pledged to work hand-in-hand with the governor-elect for the development and growth of the state.

Speaking on behalf of Zone A, Prof. Steve Ugba, pledged that they were willing, ready and capable to assist him to deliver democratic dividends to the people while Mr Hinga Biem, who spoke for Zone B, disclosed that the people of the zone were trusting that Alia would form an inclusive government and would do better given his antecedents.

Also speaking, the House of Representatives elect for Gboko/Tarka Federal Constituency, Mrs Regina Akume, encouraged the people to support the governor-elect to deliver on his mandate.