Benue LG Tribunal: I hold no resentment – Agatu chairman, Melvin Ejeh reacts to Appeal Court victory

The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Hon. James Melvin Ejeh, has described his victory at the Court of Appeal as both symbolic and a reflection of divine will, declaring that he bears no resentment toward those who contested his electoral mandate.

A three-man panel of justices, led by Hon. Justice D.M. Igyuse, unanimously upheld Ejeh’s appeal and set aside the earlier decision of the Local Government Election Petition Tribunal, which had nullified his election. The court ruled that the petition challenging Ejeh’s candidacy was a pre-election matter, falling outside the jurisdiction of a post-election tribunal.

Speaking in reaction to the verdict delivered at the NBA House in Abuja on Tuesday, Hon. Ejeh said the judgement not only reaffirmed the legitimacy of his election but also signaled the beginning of a new chapter for the people of Agatu.

“The Appeal Court has spoken. I remain deeply grateful to God Almighty, to the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, to the ALGON Chairman, Hon. Orwough Maurice, and to all who stood by me through this process,” he said.

Dedicating his victory to the people of Agatu, Ejeh extended an olive branch to his political rivals, calling for unity and collaboration in the interest of development.

“In my heart, I have no place for resentment. I have forgiven all those who opposed me and the unity of Agatu. I invite everyone—regardless of political differences—to come forward with ideas that will help move Agatu forward,” he added.