Ado LGC Chairman Resumes Office After Appeal Court Victory, Pledges Collaboration with Traditional Council on Security
By Pan Afric Reporters, IGUMALE, BENUE STATE – June 16, 2025
Hon. Engr. Sunday Oche, the Executive Chairman of Ado Local Government Council (LGC), has resumed his duties following a Benue State Local Government Election Appeal Tribunal ruling that upheld his victory in the October 5, 2024, LGC elections. The decision ends months of legal challenges.
Resuming at the council secretariat on Monday, Hon. Oche thanked the judiciary for its impartiality, stating the verdict represents a win for the people of Ado. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming mandate they bestowed upon him.
Hon. Oche emphasized the need for strengthened collaboration between the Ado Traditional Council, led by the Ad’Ado, Chief Onazi Otse-Ikor, and the local government administration to support Governor Hyacinth Alia’s security initiatives. He highlighted the Governor’s commitment to the council’s development and the well-being of all Benue citizens, citing interventions in health, infrastructure, and education.
Addressing insecurity as a significant challenge, Hon. Oche called on traditional rulers to actively participate in intelligence gathering and community mobilization. He stressed the importance of a collaborative approach to restoring peace and progress in Benue South and beyond.
Looking ahead, the chairman pledged to prioritize rural development, youth empowerment, and improved healthcare services. He appealed for unity among political stakeholders, urging them to prioritize Ado’s interests above personal agendas.
The Appeal Tribunal’s ruling overturned an earlier Benue State Local Government Election Tribunal decision that had upheld a petition challenging Hon. Oche’s candidacy. The Appeal Tribunal found the petition lacked merit, reaffirming his victory under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.
Traditional leaders present at the chairman’s return expressed their full support and commitment to collaborating with the administration to foster a safer and more developed Ado LGA.
