By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, Benue State, Hon. (Amb.) James Melvin Ejeh, has dismissed as false, malicious, and politically motivated recent social media reports alleging that he is working with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a statement issued on Friday, Ejeh — who also serves as the Deputy ALGON Chairman in Benue State — described the claims as the handiwork of “faceless political mercenaries and desperate propagandists” bent on tarnishing his reputation and undermining the strength of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Agatu and Benue South.
“My attention has been drawn to a malicious and politically motivated report alleging that I am working underground for the ADC,” Ejeh said. “This reckless publication represents a new low in the politics of blackmail, deceit, and character assassination.”
He clarified that he has never held any meeting or communication with Dr. David Mark, Hon. John Ngbede, or any official of the ADC, stressing that the story of “secret visits” was a fabrication intended to mislead the public.
Ejeh explained that during the period in question, he and all 23 local government chairmen in Benue State were attending a budget planning conference in Jos, Plateau State, an event documented with official records and photographs.
“To suggest that I, the sitting chairman of an APC-controlled council under an APC-led government, would defect to an opposition party without structure or followership in Agatu is laughable and deeply insulting,” he said.
Reaffirming his loyalty, Ejeh stated that he remains a dedicated member of the APC and a loyal supporter of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, praising the governor’s visionary leadership and commitment to grassroots development.
“I remain a loyal disciple of Governor Alia and fully committed to his development agenda for Benue State,” he said. “My administration in Agatu aligns with his vision of inclusive governance, infrastructural transformation, and empowerment.”
He further described the false reports as a failed attempt by political detractors to sow division within the ruling party, adding that no amount of blackmail or propaganda will distract him from delivering good governance to the people of Agatu.
Ejeh emphasized his unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Transformative Development Agenda of Governor Alia, describing both leaders as visionary and result-driven.
“Governor Alia’s leadership in Benue State is unprecedented—people-centered and performance-oriented,” he noted. “His record inspires confidence in the APC’s victory in 2027.”
The Agatu council boss assured his constituents that the APC remains united and strong at all levels, adding that the party is positioned to deliver an *“overwhelming victory”* in the upcoming general elections.
“Come 2027, by the grace of God, we will deliver Agatu Local Government solidly for Governor Alia, President Tinubu, and the APC from bottom to top,” he declared.
Ejeh concluded by warning those behind the false reports to desist from spreading lies, stressing that the truth will always prevail.
“Lies may trend for a moment, but truth will always stand. My loyalty to President Tinubu, Governor Alia, and our great party, the APC, is unwavering and cast in stone,” he affirmed.
