Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has reassured his deputy, Sam Ode, that he will remain his running mate in the 2027 elections, firmly dismissing speculations of a possible replacement.
Speaking in Makurdi on Monday during the swearing-in of 17 newly appointed commissioners, Governor Alia declared that there was “no vacancy” in the office of deputy governor, describing Ode as loyal, competent, and people-oriented.
The governor emphasized his strong working relationship with his deputy, warning political opponents who are “dreaming of a vacancy” to abandon such hopes.
He maintained that Ode’s contributions have been instrumental to the administration’s progress and stability.
Turning to the new commissioners, Alia tasked them to uphold transparency, accountability, and loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the state prepares for the next election cycle.
He charged them to work closely with the people, stressing that their performance would play a decisive role in securing APC’s victory in 2027.
