From Dooshima Terkura Makurdi
The Mayor of Otukpo, in Otukpo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, Chief Aloga Ogbogo, has commended the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, for his efforts to restore water supply to Otukpo town and its environs.
In a statement he made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Monday, the Mayor, on behalf of the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty John Elaigwu Odogbo, the Idoma Area Traditional Council, and the entire Idoma community, extended profound gratitude to Governor Alia, saying his decisive steps in restoring water supply to the area was life saving.
He acknowledged the recent approval 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 under the leadership of Governor Alia.
He noted that the directive underscores the Governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people of Otukpo and Idoma land, recognizing the essential role of water in daily life.
He further praised Governor Alia as a beacon of development and hope for the state, emphasizing the significant achievements recorded within his tenure of less than two years.
Chief Ogbogo appealed to CGC, the Ministry of Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, and other relevant partners to ensure that the rehabilitation of the waterworks is executed in strict adherence to specifications to guarantee a sustainable and uninterrupted water supply for the people.
The Mayor also urged these stakeholders to conduct public sensitization on the rehabilitation process and ensure proper reticulation of pipelines across Otukpo town for efficient water distribution.
He also called on residents to safeguard all water installations to prevent vandalism or any actions that could disrupt the supply of water.
On behalf of the Och’Idoma and the Idoma Area Traditional Council, Chief Ogbogo extended warm Eid-el-Fitr greetings to the Muslim community in Otukpo and its environs.
He encouraged them to use the festive period to promote love, generosity, and prayers for peace, security, and harmony in Idoma land.
He also appreciated the efforts of the Acting Ward Head of Ward 2, Otukpo, Chief Ben Ochela, for putting adequate security apparatus on ground for community policing.
He urged residents of the ward to foster unity and avoid actions that could lead to discord or instability, stressing that peace and security are vital for progress and development.