Reps Member-Elect Agbese, congratulates Gov Alia, Deputy on assumption of office

*As gov decries the state of government properties

The member-elect for Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, Chief Philip Agbese, has congratulated Governor Hyacinth Alia and his Deputy, Dr. Sam Ode, on their inauguration and subsequent assumption of office.

Governor Alia on Tuesday visited the state secretariat complex, Makurdi unannounced, and was taken around the two-story building housing offices of state agencies and parastatals by the Head of Service, Veronica Onyeke.

The governor expressed total displeasure at the level to which government files, furniture and other valuable property at the secretariat were torn, defaced and left unkempt by workers.

Agbese who spoke Wednesday in Abuja, was delighted that the new administration has hit the ground running, demonstrating the much-needed will to change the fortunes of the state.

He noted that in the last 24 hours, the governor has taken drastic steps to cleanse the land of the ills of the previous administration.

Describing the N187 billion debt left behind by the last government as unfortunate, Agbese however expressed confidence that Governor Alia will turn things around. According to him, the governor’s decision to place a ‘Post No Debit’ order on all state bank accounts was a welcome development and proof that he is prepared for the tasks ahead.

He added that the governor and his deputy have come up with a well-thought-positive blueprint to bring peace, progress, and prosperity to the land.

“Alia’s decision to revisit the contentious anti-grazing law should be commended, especially as its implementation has been perilous. With Alia and Ode on the saddle, Benue is automatically reconnected to the Federal Government and will enjoy all the accompanying benefits.”

The lawmaker-elect further stated that the governor has made it clear that the plight of the workers and pensioners will receive immediate attention. He, therefore, urged Benue residents to be optimistic, stressing that “the beginning of an assured hope is here.”

The member-elect noted that although the governor has no magic wand, he has already shown to be compassionate, focused and dedicated to the cause of making the state work again.

On his part, Agbese assured that he will do his best in the 10th National Assembly and use his contacts to lure both the Federal Government and investors to the state. He also pledged that Benue State will witness an unprecedented level of economic boom, enhanced security of lives and property as well as better conditions for workers and pensioners.