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As Tor Tiv Commissions 3.5km Road in Vandeikya
The Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom says his desire to execute more projects was stalled by paucity of funds at the disposal of his administration.
Governor Ortom stated this Friday, May 19th, 2023 during the commissioning of a 3.5km road leading to Tse Uganden Akaazua, the ancestral home of Tor Jechira’s palace in Vandeikya local government area.
He said despite paucity of funds, his administration was able to construct critical infrastructural projects to add value to the socio-economic development of the state.
The Governor lamented how he was denied several opportunities by the Federal Government because of his insistence on justice, equity and fairness to the State and the country.
He pointed out that the N20bn infrastructure development funds disbursed to other states could not be accessed by his administration owing to politically motivated reasons.
Governor Ortom further explained that a N42bn loan facility was approved for the state to clear arrears of salary and pension but again, vested political interests frustrated the efforts to access the funds.
He however expressed optimism that whatever his administration was unable to achieve, the incoming administration could access the funds which were already approved for the state and do more in terms of executing projects for the state.
While commending Benue people for the support given to his administration, the Governor charged them to extend the same support to the incoming administration, stressing however, that they must eschew the culture of insulting leaders but rather support and pray for them to succeed.
In his remarks, Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse who commissioned the road project, commended the Governor for the numerous achievements he recorded in office, stating that he will be remembered and better appreciated after his tenure for his laudable footprints in the state.
The paramount ruler who described Governor Ortom as an illustrious son of the Tiv nation appreciated him for the honour and dignity he bestowed on the traditional institution, saying “you have built ultra modern palaces for Tor Tiv and Och’Idoma, we will never forget you whether in or out of office.”
The Royal Father, particularly affirmed that Governor Ortom has laid a firm foundation upon which his successor will build to move the state forward, admonishing his subjects to refrain from insulting their leaders while in office.
In his words, “let’s stop insulting our leaders but pray for them and encourage them,” he stated.
Tor Jechira, His Royal Highness, Chief Clement Uganden expressed appreciation to the Governor for constructing the road, which he stated was impassable and made access to the community difficult until the Governor’s intervention.
Earlier, Commissioner of Works and Transport, Engr. Jude Uungwa said the road is a 3.5km constructed to asphaltic finishing with all hydraulic structures in place and hailed Governor Ortom’s infrastructure projects.
Chairman of Vandeikya local government, Barr Alex Tyonongo commended the governor for siting the projects in the area, saying the people were happy with his accomplishments.
The Contractor of the project, Engr Stephen Akange on behalf of Privent Nig Ltd, thanked Governor Ortom for patronizing local contractors, saying he has been diligent in meeting contractual obligations, adding that the company has constructed a total of 21 roads for the State Government totalling 45 kilometers.
Peoplesmind
