Benue at 50: Tor Tiv, Ooni of Ife preach unity for a better Nigeria

At the Tor Tiv on Saturday, His Majesty Professor James Iorzua Ayatse and his Ooni counterpart of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, called on political leaders to embrace unity and place the interests of the people above personal and political differences as Nigeria strives for greater peace and development.

Traditional rulers asserted that the unity of Nigeria and that of the states can never be sacrificed for personal interests.

Speaking at the grand finale of the Benue State Golden Jubilee celebrations, at the IBB Square in Makurdi, the Tor Tiv commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for organizing the first official anniversary celebration of the state since its creation in 1976, describing the occasion as historic.

He praised the resilience of the Benue people despite years of insecurity and other challenges, saying the state’s 50th anniversary symbolizes “unity in diversity” and five decades of steady progress built by successive administrations.

He paid tribute to former leaders, especially the late Aper Aku, who he credited with laying a solid foundation for the development of the state, while acknowledging the contribution of other former governors in promoting the growth of Benue.

Professor Ayatse urged political leaders to put aside partisan interests and work together to formulate policies that promote inclusion, equitable development and a stronger sense of belonging in all parts of the State.

He stressed that the next generation of leaders must be guided by service to the people rather than personal ambition, adding that the Benue State Council of Traditional Rulers will continue to support government efforts to move the state forward.

Addressing the gathering, the Ooni of Ife also congratulated Benue on achieving 50 years of statehood and recalled his fond memories of serving the state during its National Youth Service Corps programme, three decades ago.

Describing the Benue people as warm and hospitable, the Ooni said they remained a beneficiary of the state’s generosity and appealed to Nigerians to believe in the future of the country, support efforts to strengthen national unity and work collectively to overcome security challenges.

He supported Tor Tiv’s call for political unity, expressing confidence that Nigeria will continue to make progress if leaders and citizens maintain their commitment to peace, solidarity and national development.