Inclusive Leadership: Non-Indigene Executives Align With Oyibode On Udu’s Development

In a show of unity, inclusivity, and development driven engagement, the newly elected Executive of the Non-Indigene Forum in Udu Local Government Area paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun (Hon.) Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, JP, FCIA, at his office in Otor-Udu today Monday, August 4, 2025.

Led by their Chairman, Mr. Solomon Genedaga Tar, who also doubles as the President of Benue Indigenes in Udu, the delegation comprised key officers including Mr. Abraham Ouwughara (Vice Chairman, South East), Mr. Lucky Aminu (Vice Chairman, Middle Belt), Mr. Arabia Elaija (Vice Chairman, South West), Mr. Onyemachi Mathew (Organizing Secretary), Mrs. Aukuka Angela (Assistant Women Leader), Barr. Sylvanus Okpetu (State Legal Adviser), and Mr. Stanley.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Tar recounted how their new mandate was birthed from an earlier meeting with the Council Chairman following his assumption of office. According to him, that encounter served as a turning point that inspired the forum’s leadership to restructure, reposition, and rebrand the Non-Indigene body into a vibrant, development-oriented platform.

Your words served as a catalyst for this new chapter,” Mr. Tar said. “We are here today with open arms, not just to express loyalty but to reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand with your administration for the growth and unity of Udu. We are ready to be an instrument for positive transformation.”

He acknowledged the historical passivity of the non-indigene bloc in Udu’s socio-political space but emphasized that the narrative was changing. The new executive has since embarked on a massive sensitization campaign aimed at unifying and mobilizing non-indigenes across all communities in Udu.

Mr. Tar further disclosed that plans were underway for a modest but impactful inauguration ceremony that would bring together key stakeholders and leaders from Udu, stressing the need for a central base and modest funding to facilitate coordination and operations.

He also proposed the initiation of an agricultural project particularly a rice farming initiative in Udu, leveraging the expertise of Benue indigenes who are known for their agricultural acumen.

It is my desire that history remembers Udu as the first location for a rice milling plant in Delta State,” he added.

On his part the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode JP FCIA, expressed appreciation to the visiting delegation and welcomed their willingness to contribute to Udu’s development.

In his address titled “Message of Peace, Unity, and Responsible Coexistence,” Oyibode reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance for violence and divisiveness.

My leadership is anchored on peace and unity. That’s why my theme during the last Local Government was tagged Unifier, I do not discriminate between indigene and non-indigene. What matters to me is your contribution to peace and development,” he stated.

He commended the non-indigenes for their proactive step in creating a structured forum and described their efforts as worthy of emulation. He, however, warned that his administration would not tolerate deviant behaviors, cultism, or any form of violence whether from indigenes or non-indigenes.

If your presence builds Udu, you are a son. But if you bring chaos, you will be decisively dealt with. I will not spare any community leader who allows cultism to fester in their domain,” Oyibode warned.

The Udu Council Chairman also called for constructive criticism and encouraged the non-indigene leaders to speak up when they see issues affecting Udu Kingdom, pledging to remain accessible and accountable throughout his tenure.

The visit ended on a note of renewed partnership, mutual respect, and shared vision for the progress of Udu Kingdom affirming the inclusive spirit of governance under the leadership of Olorogun Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode.

Press Unit Office of The Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council.