Rijo Community Hails Engr. Sunny Oche’s Tribunal Victory, Seeks Development Boost

Pan Afric Reporters Rijo, Ado LGA – June 29, 2025 — Jubilant scenes unfolded in Rijo community as the Rijo Development Association (RDA) paid a congratulatory visit to the Chairman of Ado Local Government, Engr. Sunny Oche, following his resounding electoral victory and judicial affirmation by the Appeal Tribunal on June 3, 2025.

The delegation, led by RDA Chairman Mr. Amata Igwe Peters, included the Clan Head, Chief Ojor Sunday, and other prominent members of the community. Rijo is one of five autonomous communities in Ogege Ward and a significant contributor to the local economy, particularly through its robust garri warehousing and distribution system — a vital part of the LGA’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Commending Engr. Oche for his people-centered leadership, Mr. Peters applauded his reforms in local revenue management, especially his innovative appointment of District Revenue Commissioners, which has enhanced transparency and efficiency in key markets like Edokpo.

During the visit to Engr. Oche’s country home, the RDA outlined several urgent development needs:

• Modernization of Edokpo Market, to improve trading infrastructure;
• Reconstruction of the Rijo Primary Healthcare Facility, currently in disrepair and entangled in a land dispute;
• Installation of Motorized Boreholes, to tackle Rijo’s persistent clean water shortage — a lingering public health issue from past Guinea worm outbreaks;
• Youth Employment Initiatives, aimed at boosting productivity and reducing unemployment.

Engr. Oche, in a heartfelt response, thanked the Rijo community for their steadfast support throughout his political journey. He reaffirmed his open-door leadership approach and promised swift action on the community’s demands, particularly resolving the healthcare facility’s land dispute and expanding youth employment opportunities.

The visit concluded with an exchange of gifts, symbolizing the enduring bond between Engr. Oche and the Rijo people — a unity now strengthened by a shared vision for development and progress.

Innocent Igelle, the Principal Private Secretary to the Chairman, Ado Local Government Council reported.