President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has praised the Igede Traditional Council for preserving the annual Igede-Agba Festival, describing it as a beacon of unity and cultural pride among the Igede people.
The President, who was represented on Saturday, September 6, 2025, by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and APC leader in Benue and the North Central, Sen. Dr. George Akume, CON, made the commendation at the Oju Local Government Headquarters, venue of this year’s edition of the New Yam Festival.
Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s traditional institutions remain vital instruments for peace, unity, and progress, assuring that his administration would continue to partner with them in promoting development and conflict resolution across the country.
In his goodwill message, Comrade Austin Agada, Chairman of the APC in Benue State, lauded the President’s gesture of honoring the invitation. He said his stay in Oju had exposed him to the renowned hospitality of the Igede people, adding that the community and the wider Zone C remain firmly supportive of Sen. George Akume’s leadership and the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Agada urged the people to stand solidly with Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
Rt. Hon. David Ogewu, Member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency, also welcomed the President to Igede land, highlighting his constituency projects spanning rural electrification, healthcare, education, infrastructure, security, and youth empowerment. He encouraged residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in preparation for the 2027 elections.
The Paramount Ruler of the Igede nation, HRH CP Igo Ichor (Rtd), expressed gratitude to the President for appointing Igede sons and daughters into key positions but appealed for the expedited construction of the Oju–Ogbudu Federal Road linking Benue and Cross River States.
Rt. Hon. Ogewu further unveiled an empowerment programme at the event, distributing over 100 motorcycles, tricycles, hospital equipment, and financial support to his constituents.
Highlights of the festival included the presentation of traditional Igede attire and spears to President Tinubu and the conferment of traditional titles on Rt. Hon. David Ogewu and Bishop Pinot Ogbaji, APC Zonal Chairman, Zone C.
