It’s unfortunate Ochi’Doma did not enjoy new palace – Ortom

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has expressed dismay that Ochi’Doma IV, Agaba-Idu Elias Ikoyi Obekpa did not live long to enjoy the ultra-modern Palace being built for him before embarking on a hunting expedition.

Governor Ortom spoke Friday, November 12th, 2021 while inspecting construction work on the Ochi’Doma’s Palace in Otukpo, headquarters of the Idoma nation.

He stated that the Palace when completed will be of the same standard with that of the Tor Tiv, saying the Palaces as they were, were not befitting of such monarchs.

The Governor stated that though the construction work experienced a challenge, he expressed happiness that the hurdle has been overcome and work will now progress steadily without further challenges.

Deputy Governor, Engr Benson Abounu said he was proud that Governor Ortom has changed the status of paramount rulers in the state by ensuring that their Palaces are among the best in the country.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barrister Ken Achabo said the Governor has directed that the building be completed in March 2022 when the coronation of the next Ochi’Doma will be done.

He stated that by that arrangement, the coronation exercise will be a double celebration in Idoma land and the state in general.

Project Contractor, Engineer Agaba Ikwue, said though they lost five months of their schedule due to delay in demolishing a particular structure, he is optimistic that by the next four months work should be completed.

By Jimin Geoffrey