By Milcah Tanimu
The reception held in honor of the newly sworn-in Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, was notably absent of the presence of the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. The ceremony took place in Abuja on Monday, following Prof. Utsev’s swearing-in by President Bola Tinubu.
Notwithstanding Governor Alia’s absence, the event saw the participation of key figures, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, the immediate past governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, Ochi’doma, His Royal Majesty Agaba-Idu, Dr. Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, represented by Chief Dominic Akpe (Ter Gwer), and others of high prominence.
Furthermore, Senator Titus Zam, who represents Benue North-west, and members of the National Assembly from the state, Second Republic Senator Chief Jacob Tilley Gyado, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Aonodona Dajoh (represented by his wife, Cynthia), the state chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Austin Agada, and various other dignitaries also graced the reception.
During the event, Senator Akume’s wife, speaking on his behalf, expressed that her husband, a compassionate and forgiving man, has extended his forgiveness to former governor Ortom despite the conflicts of the past eight years. It’s noteworthy that Akume had supported Ortom’s rise to the position of Benue State Governor in 2015, but their paths diverged in 2018 when Ortom moved from the APC to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and secured his second term.
The absence of the current state governor at the event was acknowledged by the SGF’s wife, indicating a potential reconciliation between past political figures.
Former Governor Ortom also congratulated Prof. Utsev, highlighting his fitting qualifications for his ministerial role. Ortom acknowledged Utsev’s past service as the Commissioner for Water Resources and Environment in his administration and conveyed his best wishes for Utsev’s success in the new position.
In response, Minister Utsev expressed his commitment to ensuring abundant water resources in Nigeria and maintaining good hygiene practices. He thanked President Tinubu for his appointment, Senator Akume for his ongoing support, and various party leaders and supporters for their dedication.
Minister Utsev concluded by seeking prayers for his success and promising to carry out his responsibilities effectively in the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
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