In 2021, Comrade Daniel Aondokumbur Nyikwagh, widely known as Comrd Dan Nyikwagh, led a grassroots coalition named the Jechira Gubernatorial Movement (JGM)—a bold push to reclaim what many in Benue politics consider an abandoned mandate.
Backed by the late Ter-Jechira, His Royal Highness Clement Kpaerfa Uganden, the movement gained traditional legitimacy and positioned itself as a defender of equity, justice, and political balance in the state.
At the heart of their advocacy was the call for the restoration of Jechira’s gubernatorial mandate, first entrusted to Rev. Fr. Moses Adasu in 1992 but abruptly truncated by the military takeover in 1993.
“Ka Yan Gomna Agbunka Sha Tyough Ga,” the group declared, insisting Jechira had never completed a full democratic tenure at the state’s helm and deserved another chance.
Under the strategic leadership of Comrade Dan, the JGM mobilized support across Benue State, appealing to key political stakeholders and leveraging historical injustices and zoning principles to push Jechira’s case for the 2023 elections.
Their advocacy seemingly bore fruit. Then-Governor Samuel Ortom gave subtle support through PDP’s micro-zoning structure, while APC chieftain and political heavyweight, Senator George Akume, played a decisive role in steering the party’s primaries toward the eventual emergence of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, a son of Jechira.
But fast forward to 2025, disappointment looms.
Despite their central roles in the campaign that led to Jechira’s return to Government House, neither Comrade Dan Nyikwagh nor other key proponents of the JGM have received official recognition, appointments, or compensation. Even more telling, no formal delegation from Jechira has publicly appreciated SGF George Akume, whose influence proved instrumental in realizing their ambition.
In contrast, political aspirants from Kwande, eyeing 2027, have already begun strategic outreach. A recent high-profile visit to SGF Akume’s Maitama residence signaled Kwande’s organized and forward-thinking political intent.
JGM insiders now fear that Jechira’s internal silence and lack of cohesion could cost the bloc dearly in 2027.
Political watchers point to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s model of rewarding political loyalty—as seen in his appointment of Nyesom Wike as FCT Minister—as a template Jechira should learn from. Without healing internal divisions or showing gratitude to those who midwifed its return to power, Jechira risks repeating the cycle of marginalization it sought to end.
As Comrade Emmanuel of Agera-Mbachambe aptly noted:
“It takes sagacity to understand politics.”
— ConfirmNews Reporting from Benue
