The Mayor of Otukpo, Otukpo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, Chief Aloga Ogbogo, has stated that the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty, John Elaigwu Odogbo, the Idoma Area Traditional Council, and the entire Idoma community are happy with the efforts of the State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, aimed at restoring water supply in Otukpo and it’s environs.
The Mayor who extended the gratitude of the Idoma people to the state governor, on behalf of the Och’Idoma explained that it was a thing of joy for the Idoma people that Governor Alia has taken decisive steps in restoring water supply to Otukpo, which is the headquarters of the Idoma nation.
In a statement signed and made available to Daily Independent in Makurdi on Monday, Ogbogo acknowledged the recent approval by Governor Alia, for the immediate payment of the outstanding contract sum to CGC, the Chinese company that constructed the Otobi/Otukpo and Katsina-Ala Water Works, as authorized by the Benue State Executive Council.
He particularly noted that the Governor’s directive underscores his commitment to the welfare of the people of Otukpo and indeed Idoma land, by recognizing the essential role of water in daily life.
The Mayor also hailed Governor Alia as a beacon of development and hope for the state, emphasizing the significant achievements recorded by the Alia led administration in less than two years.
Furthermore, Chief Ogbogo charged the contractors, CGC, the Ministry of Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, and other relevant partners to ensure that work on the project was executed in strict adherence to specifications, a move that would guarantee sustainable and uninterrupted water supply for the people.
He also urged stakeholders charged with the responsibility of carrying out sensitization on the rehabilitation process to work towards ensuring the proper reticulation of pipelines across Otukpo town for efficient water distribution.
In order to safeguard all water installations and prevent the vandalisation on the project sites or any actions that could disrupt the supply of water, the Mayor called on residents to take ownership of the project.
He also used the channel to felicitate the Muslim community on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, on behalf of the Och’Idoma and the Idoma Area Traditional Council, with a call on Muslims to use the festive period to promote love, generosity, and prayers for peace, security, and harmony in Idoma land.
Also, the Och’Idoma appreciated the Acting Ward Head of Ward 2, Otukpo, Chief Ben Ochela, for putting adequate security measures in place through community policing, even as he urged residents of the ward to foster unity and avoid actions that could lead to discord or instability.
The paramount ruler stressed that peace and security were vital ingredients for progress and development.
