Hon. Matthew Ochigbo has emerged as the governorship flagbearer of the National Democratic Party (NDP) in Benue.
NDP Media and Publicity Secretary, Mr Isaiah Adadu, announced Ochigbo’s emergence in a statement on Tuesday in Makurdi.
The governorship candidate was nominated at the party’s primary election, which was through affirmation/consensus.
According to Adadu, Ochigbo was unopposed and was unanimously endorsed by delegates drawn from the 23 local governments and council wards of the state.
He stated that the exercise was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies.
In his post-election speech, Ochigbo described the overwhelming endorsement as a call to greater service and responsibility to the people of Benue.
“This is not about me; it is about the people of Benue and the need for leadership that is responsive to their aspirations and committed to grassroots development.
“I pledge to pursue policies that will promote inclusive governance, economic growth, social cohesion and sustainable development across all parts of the state if elected governor in 2027,” Ochigbo said.
A stakeholder of the party, Mrs Maureen Egum, expressed optimism about Ochigbo’s candidature, noting that his track record in human capital development and community service would help foster unity and strengthen relationships among the various ethnic groups in the state.
She described his emergence as a positive development and a step in the right direction for the people of Benue.
Also speaking, another party stakeholder, Mr David Ortserga, said that Ochigbo possessed the requisite qualities and leadership capacity needed to bridge existing divides and provide purposeful governance for the state.
Ortserga urged the governorship candidate to place special emphasis on the development and welfare of women, youths and children, particularly in the areas of healthcare, education and economic empowerment.
He maintained that Ochigbo’s commitment to community service and inclusive leadership made him a suitable candidate to lead the state toward greater unity, peace and development. (NAN)
