Senate President visits Och’Idoma

—-Renews faith in Nigeria’s unity


President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has urged traditional rulers across Nigeria to rise up to the challenge of ensuring security, peace and unity of the nation at all times.

Senator Mark said traditional rulers and citizens alike need  to compliment government’s efforts in the onerous task of curbing crimes, especially the insurgency ravaging Nigeria.

He spoke at the weekend when he formally received the certificate of his Chieftaincy  title,the  OKPOKPOWULU K’IDOMA( meaning the brave warrior and defender of the Idoma people) from the paramount ruler of IDOMA nation in Benue State, Och’Idoma IV, Agabaidu Elias Ikoyi Obekpa in the latter’s palace in Otukpo.

The Senate President maintained that development can only take place where there is peace and congenial atmosphere just as he reminded those perpetrating violent crimes to sheath their swords and embrace dialogue .

Senator Mark said he would do more to attract developmental projects to his constituency but would require a peaceful atmosphere , the support and cooperation of the people.

Handing over the certificate to the Senate President, the Och’Idoma praised Mark for promoting peace in the country  and attracting developmental projects to his domain.

The paramount ruler listed the projects to include but not limited to the multi-billion Naira Otobi  multi-purpose dam;, construction of Oweto -Uloko Bridge , establishment of College of Medical and Health Sciences campus, Otukpo of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi as well as the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Otukpo study centre .

He however tasked the Senate President  to do more in order to realize the creation of Apa State out of the present Benue State, saying  that the people are homogeneous and hospitable.

The Och’Idoma added that the proposed State is economically viable and its creation will ultimately bring government nearer to the people.

Signed:
Paul Mumeh, Chief Press Secretary to the President of the Senate.