‘Benue South has failed to appreciate Alia’s achievements, he’s done a lot for us’ — Ado LG chair, Sunny Oche

The Executive Chairman of Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, Hon. Engr. Sunday Oche, has said many people in Benue South (Zone C) have failed to appreciate the achievements of Governor Hyacinth Alia, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, security and appointments.

Oche stated this during an interview with Idoma TV, where he defended the governor’s performance against criticisms from some residents of the senatorial district.

According to him, many of those criticising the governor have refused to acknowledge ongoing development projects and improvements in security across the zone.

“They have failed to see the positive side of the governor’s performance,” Oche said.

He cited the revival of investment in Ado Local Government, especially renewed interest by Chinese investors in the moribund Igumale Cement industry, as evidence that the security situation had improved significantly under the current administration.

The council chairman also pointed to road construction projects in Ado and other parts of Benue South, saying the state government had invested billions of naira in infrastructure across the district.

“In Ado alone, the government has invested over ₦25 billion in road construction. There is another road project from Agatu, and the Oju–Awajir Road is also ongoing. These projects are there for everyone to see,” he said.

On complaints that Zone C had been sidelined in political appointments, Oche dismissed the allegation, insisting that the governor had treated the district fairly.

He noted that several key government positions, including the Commissioners for Finance, Education and Water Resources, as well as the Head of Service and the Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, are occupied by indigenes of Zone C.

“So, whoever says appointments have been lopsided is not being fair to the governor. We have three zones in Benue State, and the governor has distributed appointments equitably,” he stated.

Oche also maintained that Governor Alia remained popular in Benue South and expressed confidence that the people of the district would support him if he seeks re-election in 2027.

“I believe the people of Zone C are beginning to realise why they should support him because of the projects that have been executed and those that are still ongoing,” he added.