The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) governorship flagbearer in Benue State for 2027 and state party chairman, Comrade Simon Ogbe, has strongly countered former legislator Francis Ottah Agbo following Agbo’s recent statements during an Ado Road project inspection. Agbo had reportedly called on Benue South (Zone C) residents to back Governor Hyacinth Alia and his platform in 2027, while advising patience over security challenges until State Police takes effect.
Responding to the comments, Comrade Ogbe noted that while Agbo is free to air his personal views, he lacks the mandate to speak for the entire Benue South district.”You can speak for yourself, but you cannot speak for everybody. When the time is right, I will speak for myself, and Zone C voters will deliver their verdict at the polls. No one should prematurely claim to represent the entire zone.
“It appears Francis Ottah Agbo has not reviewed the membership rosters of opposition parties across Benue. Had he done so, he would know the Zenith Labour Party boasts active supporters across all 23 local government areas. So, who exactly is he representing when urging Zone C to rally behind a single candidate? He certainly doesn’t speak for all of us.”
Ogbe emphasized the pressing security crisis facing the region:”Zone C is currently in mourning due to ongoing violent assaults in Otukpo, Ohimini, and across Benue South. This is no moment for political endorsements or asking grieving communities to exercise patience while lives are cut short.
“With all due respect, I firmly reject your stance. As our land suffers, political ambition should not drive statements like this. Many of us held you in high regard beyond politics due to your public record, which makes these remarks especially disappointing.” He further contrasted Agbo’s stance with other political leaders:”Why diverge from other Benue South Senate contenders, including sitting Senator Abba Moro? Aspirants across board have repeatedly urged the state government to act, as safeguarding citizens is its primary duty. We expected you to join in demanding swift measures from the Governor, who serves as Chief Security Officer and draws security funds, rather than asking victims to wait for State Police.
“These remarks only deepen speculation regarding your ties to the current administration. To dispel that impression, now is the time to stand firmly with the people, condemn the killings, and demand governmental accountability.” Ogbe concluded with a focus on governance priorities and the upcoming polls:
“We cannot politicize human life. Families and farming communities are being wiped out. Any administration unable to guarantee security has failed its chief constitutional duty. Completed roads, salaries, or pensions mean nothing to those who have lost their lives.
“In 2027, the contest will be between the electorate and any candidate seen as backed by an administration that failed to protect them. Zone C voters will decide for themselves. Our next senator must be bold, outspoken, and dedicated to defending our people—qualities Senator Abba Moro has shown throughout this crisis.
“I urge Francis Ottah Agbo to align with the people of Benue South: speak up for victims, demand justice, and insist the government fulfill its core responsibility, rather than asking traumatized communities to wait while violence persists.”
