In what political observers have described as a strategic endorsement with far-reaching implications for Benue politics, the Youth Parliament for Renewed Hope (YPRH), Federal Republic of Nigeria, has conferred on Chief (Dr.) Senator Barnabas Iyorhyer Gemade the distinguished titles of Founding Father of the Youth Parliament and Grand Patron of its Benue State Chapter.
The honour was formally bestowed during a ceremony held in Abuja, following what the organisation described as a thorough assessment of Chief Gemade’s political capacity, leadership pedigree, and enduring relevance in national and state affairs. He was decorated with the association’s regalia and presented with a Certificate of Grand Patronship, amid applause from youth leaders and political stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, the National Speaker of the Youth Parliament for Renewed Hope, Rt. Hon. Hussaini A. Alkali, said the decision to adopt Chief Gemade as the political father of the movement was deliberate and well considered.
“Chief Gemade represents experience, courage, and political stability. As young people committed to the Renewed Hope agenda, we require a father figure with the capacity to guide us, protect the movement, and offer wise counsel. Our search naturally led us to him,” Alkali said.
He further pledged the total loyalty and support of the Youth Parliament to Chief Gemade, assuring him of their readiness to stand by his political direction and decisions as alignments crystallise ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Responding, Chief Gemade, who is also the Chairman of the APC Elders Advisory Council in Benue State, expressed deep appreciation for the confidence reposed in him. He described the honour as both humbling and a call to greater responsibility.
In a firm political charge, the former national party leader reminded the youth body that the Renewed Hope agenda belongs squarely to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that the success of the movement depends on their commitment to defending and consolidating the President’s vision.
“Renewed Hope is the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. You must stand firm and ensure that this vision is protected and strengthened through his re-election in 2027,” Gemade charged.
He also commended the performance of Gov. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, noting that the Benue State administration has recorded tremendous and pragmatic development across key sectors.
“Governor Alia’s administration has delivered visible and impactful governance to the people of Benue. I urge you, as a youth movement, to reciprocate this progress with loyalty, mobilisation, and support for his second-term bid,” he added.
Chief Gemade further demanded unity, strategic grassroots mobilisation, discipline, and courage from the group, emphasizing that youth energy must be channelled towards sustaining progressive politics rather than internal divisions.
Also speaking, Chief Dr. Lawrence Onoja applauded the Youth Parliament for what he described as “a round peg in a round hole,” noting that aligning with Chief Gemade was both wise and timely.
“You have chosen experience over noise and credibility over sentiment. Chief Gemade is a stabilising force, and your decision reflects political maturity,” Onoja stated.
Earlier, the leadership of the Youth Parliament maintained that their decision was driven by the need for a credible, principled, and respected leader capable of guiding the organisation in Benue State.
They affirmed that Chief Gemade’s stature, political experience, and influence made him the ideal Founding Father.
The development is widely viewed as a further consolidation of Chief Gemade’s political influence in Benue State, positioning him as a rallying point for youth mobilisation and progressive forces as the 2027 elections draw closer.
