Benue NUJ Chairperson, Victoria Asher laid to rest

Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has appreciated the traditional institution and the people of Tongov for cooperating with security personnel who are in the area to ensure peace return to the domain and do away with elements of banditry.

He said this Friday, February 12, 2021 at the burial of the late Mrs Asher at Tse-Maave, Ugber – Tongov in katsina-ala local government area.

The Governor emphasized that, with the cooperation of the people so far, he is optimistic normalcy will soon return in the entirety of Sankera comprising Katsina-Ala, Ukum and Logo local government areas.

The governor who described the death of the Benue State chapter chairperson of Nigerian Union of journalist (NUJ), late Mrs Victoria Asher as shocking prayed that his remaining years in office will not witness the loss of any life of the union.

The Governor who was represented by his Principal Special Assistant on Media, Nathaniel Ikyur, Governor Ortom said he is deeply saddened that in his six years as Governor he is burying two council chairmen of journalists which has distorted the various plans of the chairmen for Benue journalist to come to fruition.

Governor Ortom appreciated the NUJ in the state for been part of the vehicle that has driven his administration, ensuring accountability and transparency.

The Governor described the late Mrs Asher as a young , vibrant journalist and union leader whose life ambition , aspirations and prospect for higher heights were cut short by death.

He said the passage of Comrade Asher in her prime when her services are most needed is indeed painful not only to her immediate family and Nigeria union of Journalists but also to the entire state .

Comrade Kajo , who is the acting council Chairman appreciated Governor Samuel Ortom for always responding to their call noting that , the governor gave support when the late Victoria was on admission in the hospital and after she passed on , he still supported the council to ensure they bury their comrade .

Earlier at the valecdictory session, the National President of NUJ , chief Chris Isiguzo, lamented the frequent deaths of Chairmen of the council in the state.

He said though death is inevitable, it is his earnest prayers that , if he is returning to Benue state next time , it Should be for celebration , but not mourning.

Isiguzo said the late Victoria showed prospects in leadership by changing the status of the NUJ Pen College which was hitherto in comatose before she came on board.

In their separate funeral oration at the NUJ valedictory session , Acting Chairman NUJ , Comrade Martins Kajo, NUJ National President Comrade Chris Isiguzo , General manager Harvest FM Christy Odeh , Director General Radio Benue , Espy Uba , and Ben Agande General manager of the voice newspaper all extol the Sterling qualities of the late NUJ Chairperson saying death has thwarted her tall ambition of turning around the fortunes of journalist in the state for good.

By Amande Solomon