Prof. Terhemba Shija, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) governorship candidate in Benue state, has emphasized the need for opportunities for Benue youths to earn a decent living and contribute to the state's development. In an interview, Shija highlighted the significance of NDC as an ideologically driven party with a history of minority rights activism. He noted that the party's values include inclusivity, dignity, and respect for the rule of law.
Shija explained that NDC's ideology is rooted in fighting for the downtrodden and minorities, similar to the United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC). He mentioned that the party's leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, registered the party with symbolic heads of two majority ethnic groups, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso. Shija described this combination as a classic synergy, similar to the Second Republic's collaboration between J.S. Tarka and J. Wayas.
The NDC candidate expressed his support for Peter Obi, stating that his emergence as a presidential candidate means Nigerians will have an opportunity to vote for an Igbo man as president. Shija noted that NDC is determined to offer Benue a new approach to governance, anchored on inclusivity, security, job creation, and respect for human dignity. He emphasized that the party will provide jobs for youths, as the current government has failed to do so.
Shija assessed the security and internally displaced persons (IDPs) situation in Benue as a chequered history. He mentioned that the former governor claimed there were up to a million people in IDPs camps, while the present administration has not provided reliable figures. Shija stated that IDPs camps are multiplying, and people are being raided instead of ranching cattle.
The NDC candidate criticized the current administration for normalizing the suffering of Benue people. He promised to do exactly the opposite of what the current governor is doing, providing jobs and confronting the problems facing the state. Shija emphasized that Benue people are hard-working and do not need to be reduced to permanent dependence on handouts.
Shija expressed confidence that with determination, four months is enough time to organize support across the state. He noted that he and his deputy have the necessary experience and will sell their agenda to the people village-to-village, ward-to-ward, and local government-to-local government. Shija promised that the party will act differently, protecting the dignity of Benue people and creating opportunities for youths.
Finally, Shija's message to the people of Benue ahead of the elections is that there is a different political possibility. He promised to present the party's agenda to the people and ask them to judge them by what they stand for and intend to do. Shija emphasized that the party will provide opportunities for youths to work, earn a decent living, and contribute to the state's development.
Key points
- - NDC's vision for Benue state focuses on inclusivity, security, job creation, and respect for human dignity. - The party aims to provide jobs for youths and confront the problems facing the state. - Shija is confident that with determination, the party can organize support across the state within four months.
