Benue: Alia never abandoned Agatu – Ejeh fires back at critics
Agatu Council Chairman Defends Benue Governor Against Abandonment Claims
The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, Melvin Ejeh, has issued a robust defense of Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, countering allegations that he has neglected the local government area. Ejeh characterized these claims as politically motivated and unfounded.
Speaking in response to remarks made by the Agatu West Peace and Unity Forum, Ejeh emphasized the substantial interventions occurring in Agatu under Governor Alia’s leadership. He stated that anyone familiar with the local government’s progress would find it difficult to accuse Alia of neglect.
Ejeh highlighted his administration’s achievements, attributing them to the “active moral, spiritual, financial, and logistical support” provided by the governor. “There is nothing I would have done in Agatu Local Government without the support of Governor Alia,” he said, asserting that the local government’s transformations are a direct result of the governor’s efforts.
He noted that no previous administration has shown the commitment to Agatu that Governor Alia’s has, particularly regarding infrastructure, security, and the welfare of displaced residents.
A key project in Ejeh’s defense is the ongoing construction of the 43-kilometer Obagaji-Okokolo-Agagbe road, which is estimated to cost around ₦29 billion. Ejeh described the project as one of the most significant infrastructure initiatives in Agatu since the restoration of democratic governance, pointing out that past administrations had failed to make meaningful progress on similar promises.
“The road is currently under construction, with a significant portion already completed,” he noted. He also explained that the new road could reduce travel time between Makurdi and Agatu by approximately two hours when finished, enhancing economic access and security response times in areas previously known for insecurity.
Ejeh further highlighted the political representation for Agatu under Alia’s administration, including the appointment of Dr. Margaret Adekemi Ijaguwa as Commissioner for Education, which he claimed has had tangible benefits for the community. Plans are underway to establish a government technical school in Enungba as part of these initiatives.
He mentioned other strategic appointments of Agatu indigenes within the state government, including key positions aimed at enhancing community mobilization and governance.
In terms of health infrastructure, Ejeh revealed plans for the establishment of a teaching hospital for Benue State University in Agatu, stating that groundwork and site assessments have been completed, with construction expected to commence by year-end.
On security matters, Ejeh noted that the Alia administration has provided over 45 motorcycles for use by security personnel and local vigilante groups, significantly improving response times to threats.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in offering monthly food assistance to internally displaced persons in Agatu, which has continued through July. Furthermore, Agatu’s inclusion in a World Bank-supported project aims to allocate more than $5 million to support conflict-affected communities.
While Ejeh admitted that the return of displaced persons remains a challenge, he asserted that security conditions in previously volatile areas have improved. “Communities that were once besieged are now accessible,” he stated, inviting any detractors to provide evidence to the contrary.
He attributed the slow return of some residents to the destruction of homes and infrastructure rather than ongoing violence. In collaboration with the state government and development partners, the local council is focused on rehabilitating schools and health facilities to support resettlement.
Ejeh also commended Governor Alia for efforts to bolster the long-term security of Agatu, including the proposed establishment of a Nigerian Army mega battalion locally, a move he believes could be transformative.
In total, the combination of infrastructure projects, security enhancements, political appointments, education initiatives, and humanitarian support represent substantial state engagement with Agatu, he concluded. Ejeh urged critics to reevaluate their stance and recognize the ongoing developments.
“The challenges are significant, but the response requires continued collaboration rather than misinformation,” he declared. Ejeh affirmed that the governor’s interventions are critical not only for physical infrastructure but also for restoring confidence among residents who have faced prolonged insecurity.
