TheCable

Philip Agbese, a member-elect of the house of representatives, has congratulated Hyacinth Alia on his assumption of office as governor of Benue.

Alia, who was elected on March 18, took the oath of office on Monday.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Agbese, who will represent Ado/ Okpokwu/ Ogbadibo federal constituency, said Alia’s administration has hit the ground running, demonstrating the much-needed will to change the fortunes of the state.

The rep-elect said within the last 24 hours, the governor has taken drastic steps to correct the errors of Samuel Ortom’s administration.

Agbese said it’s unfortunate that Alia’s predecessor left behind N187 billion in debt.

He said the governor’s decision to place a post-no-debit order on all bank accounts belonging to the state government showed that he was prepared for the task ahead.

Agbese added that the governor and Sam Ode, his deputy, have a “well-thought-positive blueprint” to ensure peace, progress, and prosperity in the state.

He said Alia’s plan to revisit the contentious anti-grazing law should be commended because its implementation has been perilous.

The lawmaker-elect further said the governor has promised to look into the plight of workers, and that pensioners would receive immediate attention.

Agbese asked Benue residents to be optimistic, adding the “beginning of an assured hope is here”, adding that as a member of the 10th assembly, he would sponsor bills and motions to drive development in Benue, especially his constituency.

He added that the state would witness an unprecedented level of economic boom, enhanced security of lives and property as well as better conditions for workers and pensioners.