OPINION: Deputy Speaker Lami Danladi Ogenyi represents a handshake across Ado blessed with organic followers for APC

True political leadership is defined not merely by holding public office, but by the depth of connection a leader builds with the people at the grassroots.

In the 10th Benue State House of Assembly, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chief Mrs. Lami Danladi Ogenyi representing Ado State Constituency, has masterfully carved a unique niche for herself, one that transcends traditional political divides and resonates across all ten council wards of Ado Local Government Area.

As a dedicated and purposeful lawmaker, Deputy Speaker Lami has consistently demonstrated that effective representation translates directly into tangible dividends for her constituents.

Beyond her primary legislative duties, she has facilitated numerous employment opportunities at both the state and federal levels. Remarkably, her personal office directly employs up to 20 personal aides drawn inclusively from across the land, ensuring that governance is truly participative.

Her commitment to human capital development and social welfare is evident across every corner of the constituency. From expansive welfare packages and support for students, women, and the elderly, to targeted interventions reaching the Ezza and Izzi communities, her impact is widely felt. Among her most celebrated initiatives is her comprehensive medical outreach, which managed critical health challenges and saved thousands of lives, an effort that remains a major point of praise throughout the land of the sage.

Deputy Speaker Lami’s developmental footprint is visible through substantial infrastructure projects funded through her office.

Educational & Community Infrastructure: Construction of standard classroom blocks in Apa Ward and Akpoge-Ogbilolo Ward, alongside a state-of-the-art community town hall for the people of Utonkon.

Water & Energy Access: Installation of solar-powered boreholes in Akpoge-Ogbilolo, Igumale, Ulayi, and Ijigban wards.

Inclusivity & Religious Support: Construction of a mosque, borehole, and solar energy installation for the Hausa Community in Utonkon.

Widespread Lighting Interventions: Deployment of solar streetlights across schools in all ten wards of Ado, extending this gesture to tertiary institutions including Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, and the College of Education, Oju.

What truly sets Hon. Lami apart is the organic, grassroots-driven nature of her political support. Her followership is built on service rather than coercion, reflected in organized voluntary support networks such as Lami Fathers, Lami Mothers, Lami Sisters, Lami Brothers, Alia and Lami Squad, Hausa Community for Lami, and the Ezza/Izzi for Lami coalitions.

By appointing indigenous representatives from the Ezza and Izzi communities as personal aides and facilitating paid government roles for them, she has built enduring bridges of trust.

Furthermore, her profound respect for traditional institutions has solidified her standing as a unifying figure. By consistently extending cultural and logistical support during major local festivals, such as Ujo Agila, Ujo Igumale, Erenonu of the Ari axis, and Jokah of Utonkon, she continues to promote cultural heritage and unity.

As a key champion for women’s advancement and welfare, Hon. Lami governs without discrimination regarding tribe, religion, or political affiliation. This inclusive approach was instrumental in delivering decisive majorities for both her election and that of Governor Hyacinth Alia in 2023.

Looking ahead toward 2027 electoral cycles, Deputy Speaker Lami Danladi Ogenyi stands out as a political anchor for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ado, a proven operator whose grassroots structure, developmental record, and genuine “handshake” across all communities make her an indispensable pillar of leadership in Benue State.

Comrade Samson Otokpa

Benue State Coordinator NYO