Ukwonyo Development Association Honors Ado Local Government Chairman for Election Victory

The Ukwonyo Development Association (UkDA) Makurdi Branch Wednesday presented a plaque of honour to Hon. Engr. Sunny Oche, Chairman of Ado Local Government, in recognition of his electoral victory and subsequent affirmation by the Benue State Election Appeal Tribunal. The ceremony, held on June 11, 2025, celebrated Engr. Oche’s successful campaign and the upholding of his election results.

The UkDA leadership, headed by Mr. Cletus Olong, specifically acknowledged the roles of Benue State Governor Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia and the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Benjamin Omale, in ensuring a favorable outcome at the Appeal Tribunal held on June 3, 2025. The group also expressed gratitude to the people of Ado Local Government for their steadfast support of Engr. Oche.

The presentation served as a dual celebration, acknowledging Engr. Oche’s success and reaffirming the UkDA’s solidarity. The association highlighted Engr. Oche’s roots in Avarichi, Ukwonyo in Utonkon District, emphasizing their shared history and aspirations. The event provided an opportunity for reminiscing and expressing gratitude for life’s achievements.

The UkDA’s visit culminated in the presentation of the plaque, with Mr. Olong praising Engr. Oche’s resilience throughout the legal challenges. Mr. Olong also highlighted Engr. Oche’s recent accomplishments, including the commissioning of a solar-powered electrification project at the Ukwonyo Intensive Primary Health Care center and a ₦500,000 donation for expanding power access in the surrounding area.

Looking ahead, Mr. Olong urged Engr. Oche to prioritize the upgrade of Government College Utonkon to a tertiary institution and advocate for the reconstruction of the Otukpo-Utonkon and Utonkon-Okpaga roads. He emphasized the need for Engr. Oche to consolidate his victories through continued impactful governance.

In his acceptance speech, Engr. Oche according to a report by his Principal Private Secretary, Innocent Igelle expressed gratitude for the honor, emphasizing his deep connection to the Ukwonyo community. He reiterated his commitment to upgrading Government College Utonkon and highlighted his positive working relationship with Governor Alia, citing ongoing development projects in Ado Local Government as evidence. Engr. Oche assured the community of his dedication to providing exemplary leadership.

The UkDA delegation included Mr. Kelvin Otokpa, DSP Dennis Ejaka (Rtd), Mr. Peter Enyi, Mr. Sunday Ekma, Mrs. Igelle, and others.