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By Tracy Moses
MAKURDI – The Movement for the Actualization of Kwande Governorship Agenda (MAKGA) has intensified its push for the Kwande Intermediate Area to produce Benue State’s next governor, declaring its readiness to challenge the incumbent administration in 2027.
The renewed momentum follows the presentation of a comprehensive report by the 84-member Kwande 2027 Inter-Party Governorship Advocacy Committee to stakeholders, elders, and political leaders of Kwande and Ushongo Local Government Areas.
According to MAKGA, the governorship project has secured strong endorsements from key power blocs, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, and former Governor Samuel Ortom. Both leaders reportedly encouraged the bloc to pursue its ambition, signaling broad acceptance across party lines.
The Advocacy Committee, co-chaired by Elder Atsaga Anemba of the PDP and Barrister Vincent Uji, APC Zonal Chairman for Zone A, toured Tiv intermediate areas, Sankera, Jemgbagh, Gwer, and Lobi, where they received what MAKGA described as “overwhelming approval” for Kwande’s 2027 aspiration.
MAKGA Convener, Leonard Ikyem, said the consultations reveal a strong consensus that it is Kwande’s turn to lead the state.
“The Kwande Intermediate Area has received a clear and overwhelming endorsement to vie for the 2027 governorship,” Ikyem stated. “Our interactions across Tiv land affirm that the mandate is legitimate, timely, and widely supported.”
During a well-attended briefing in Ushongo town, stakeholders from other intermediate areas formally expressed their backing.
Hon. Laha Zever, speaking for Jemgbagh, said the time had come to correct longstanding political imbalances, affirming the bloc’s support for Kwande. Ambassador Chive Kaave, representing Sankera, described the aspiration as consistent with the historic bonds between the two blocs.
Representatives from Lobi and Gwer, Charles Torbunde and ACG Peter Pevigo (Rtd), respectively, praised the sincerity and strategic depth of the consultations, noting that Kwande had taken the right steps at the right time.
The gathering also passed a vote of confidence in Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Member of the House of Representatives for Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency, applauding his record of representation and project delivery. Ugbor assured constituents that he was consulting widely and would soon make his political intentions known.
Former Chief of Staff to Governor Ortom, Hon. Terwase Orbunde, renewed his call for support toward Kwande’s quest, reiterating his long-standing interest in the governorship.
In closing, MAKGA emphasized that the bloc remains united and will support any qualified son of Kwande who emerges as candidate of any political party. Ikyem assured supporters that the group would intensify consultations to ensure Kwande takes the mantle of leadership in 2027.