Your excellency, the Nigerian democracy project of the fourth Republic commenced in 1999 with you as the Benue state governor. You effectively steered the ship of state for eight years and left behind indelible milestones which have not been dwarfed by subsequent administrations.
The Benue leadership trajectory doesn't encourage policy continuation therefore some of the legacy programs and projects you initiated which could have greatly impacted on the social and economic lives of our people have been unjustifiably abandoned on the alter of ego, yet nobody has equalled you in terms of measurable infrastructural development in all sectors of the economy including 'stomach infrastructure'. Sir, on your continued visibility in the Nigerian political leadership landscape, I have come to see you as the most loved by the ordinary people but yet unappreciated by the elite including those who you have assisted into reckoning.
This should not deter you because political leadership in our clime is a huge burden and challenge. As Nigeria celebrates her variant of democracy, permit me to remind you that ours is a system built on mischief and shenanigans.
You have to remain strong and calculative all the time. The Hon minister, today is your day as the longest serving public official in Benue state, look back and you will see the long queue of your admirers, praying daily for God's blessings and protection on you. Similarly you will see those eyeing your position and wishing you were out of it. In all of this, continue to remain strong and calculative.
I like to encourage you to continue to open your arms and accept back all those who for whatever cause walked out, bearing in mind that people act differently under certain situations.
For those of us who are here with you under thick and thin, may God keep us intact. I like to end by praying God to bless your heart, health and pocket for the good of Tar Tiv, Benue state and Nigeria at large.
Happy democracy day!
Long live Nigeria
Long live Benue
Long live distinguished Senator, George Akume.