From Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
Thousands of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters in Benue State, on Monday, thronged the streets of Makurdi, the state capital, on Monday to celebrate the party’s victory at the polls.
As early as 12 noon, youths and groups had begun to gather at various points in the state capital to await the announcement of the results.
Although the final result of the governorship and House of Assembly elections, which were held on Saturday, was announced Monday evening, the supporters waited, drumming and dancing to political songs.
On hearing the results, which indicated that Hyacinth Alia, a Catholic priest, had won the election for governor, some major junctions and roads were blocked by rough-driving motorcyclists, motorists poured into the road in celebration.
The junction at the adjoining INEC office at the B Division point, Gboko road at Judges Quarter’s junction leading to George Akume’s residence, Old Otukpo road, New GRA where the Governor-elect lives, Terwase Agbadu road, among other areas, were all blocked with a crowd of supporters who bore palm frond, broom and we’re chanting victory songs.
Supporters who trekked from the INEC office to the residence of the Governor-elect to celebrate him also followed him to Judges Quarters where their party leader, Akume lives to celebrate with him.
This caused heavy traffic along Gboko road where motorists had to navigate their ways or change routes to enable them to continue their journey
Speaking to our correspondent, Emberga Baaki, said they were happy that their votes counted in the governorship election.
“We are dancing and jubilation because this is what we voted for. We got exactly who we want and we are happy and sure that he will do well.”
Another resident, James Onah said “Alia doo; Alia is good. We voted Alia and we got Alia. So we are happy. I am are 100 per cent sure that Benue will be better.”
An elderly woman who identified herself simply as Mama Adawa said, “Alia has healed many people in Benue. Alia will heal Benue too.
“We are happy that he won this election. After we voted in the presidential election, we were waiting to vote for Governor and now that we have who we want, we are happy,” she said.