Solomon Semaka
In the history of Nigerian politics, loyalty is not a virtue to be assumed; it is a character forged in the fires of consistency, humility, and absolute dedication.
As the political landscape of Benue State shifts toward 2027, the toxic political ecosystem in Benue was saturated with intense speculation over whether Governor Hyacinth Alia would retain Dr. Sam Ode as his deputy for the 2027 Gubernatorial election.
Obviously, the choice of Right Honourable Sam Ode as the running mate to His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia has effectively brought to a close the evil suspicions, shameless lies, envy and morbid ambitions surrounding the choice of who becomes the deputy to the Governor in 2027. The affirmation stands as a powerful testament to unwavering loyalty, and a well-deserved reward for unalloyed dedication and commitment.
In an era where political relationships are often transactional, the synergy between Governor Alia and Deputy Governor Ode proves that fidelity to a leader and a shared vision still yields the greatest dividends for governance.
The decision to retain Dr. Sam Ode is no doubt a verdict on loyalty, strategy, and trust. It closes several years of whispers, plots, and “poisonous enmity,” and opens a new chapter of heathy relationship that transcends politics.
This endorsement is, first and foremost, a moment to express profound gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia. By standing firmly with his deputy for the upcoming 2027 election, the governor has rewarded true loyalty and sent a clear message across the nation that trust and alignment in the executive chambers are sacrosanct.
As the American businessman Robert Bosch famously noted, “I would rather lose money than trust.” Governor Alia has demonstrated that a stable, unified leadership team is the ultimate foundation for the continued transformation of Benue State.
This strategic pick secures an unbreakable covenant with the people of Zone C. The entire Idoma nation and the surrounding local governments stand completely unified behind the Alia-Ode ticket. This is not just a political alignment; it is a total assurance of support from a region that recognizes when its interest is genuinely protected.
The people of Zone C pledges their total, unalloyed votes and structures to ensure a resounding victory, validating the mutual respect that defines the current administration.
Sam Ode is not a newcomer to the complex machinery of governance. His selection is rooted in decades of institutional experience, deep political wisdom, and a profound understanding of public administration.
Having served at various tiers of government, from local administration to national prominence, he possesses a rare, prudent grasp of state politics. As the philosopher Aristotle once observed, “He who cannot be a good follower cannot be a good leader.” Ode’s long-standing service to Benue State highlights his unique ability to balance administrative excellence with absolute submission to his principal’s executive vision.
In the history of Nigerian politics, the office of the deputy governor has frequently been marred by friction and unnecessary rivalry. Sam Ode breaks this mold completely, serving as the ultimate blueprint for deputy governors nationwide to emulate.
Dr. Sam Ode has masterfully balanced visibility with humility, ensuring his actions always amplify the governor’s achievements rather than overshadowing them. His conduct proves that a deputy can be highly competent, deeply influential, and entirely loyal all at the same time.
Prior to his venture into politics, Ode understands both the dynamics of power and the essence of unwavering loyalty. He gives his all to any cause he believes in without holding back, with sincerity and unshakable dedication.
Beyond his loyalty, Ode brings a wealth of invaluable attributes to the table: He seamlessly connects diverse ethnic and political factions across Benue’s distinct zones. As a grassroots champion, Ode maintains a direct, authentic heartbeat with the local communities, ensuring governance remains people-centered. His calm temperament and diplomatic acumen have quietly defused political tensions, keeping the administration focused on development.
As Benue marches confidently toward 2027, the Alia-Ode continuity represents stability, shared vision, and a prosperous future. It is a partnership built on solid rock, ready to lift the state to even greater heights.
Solomon Semaka is a public Affairs Commentator and Senior Special Assistant To The Executive Governor of Benue State on Civil Society and Strategic Engagements Office.