By AVADOO IORNAV, Makurdi –
Former Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA, Hon. Adikpo Agbatse, has called on relevant stakeholders to immortalize a renowned traditional ruler in Tiv land, Late Tor Jato-Aka for his positive contributions in sustaining the unity of the Tiv people while alive.
Jato-Aka, one of the first generation traditional rulers in Tiv land, was the District Head of Turan who was famous for his long smoking pipe, great wisdom and deep knowledge about Tiv culture and anthropology.
Agbatse, who is a governorship aspirant in Benue state under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the call at the 60th Memorial Anniversary Appeal Fund support for Jato-Aka Foundation and the unveiling of late Tor Jato-Aka’s statue.
He was the guest speaker at the occasion, held at Tse Jato-Aka, Akaa Kpase, Turan in Kwande local government area of the state over the weekend.
The Gubernatorial hopeful who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Esther Mwuese Agbatse and Exco, Forum of Nanev Professionals led by Engr. Isaac Iorhen, extolled the leadership role, love and high level of patriotism which Tor Jato-Aka had for his people.
He also urged them to emulate the Kwande-born ancestor.
Hon. Agbatse recalled the cordial relationship that existed between Jato-Aka and the former political leader of the Middle Belt, late Senator JS Tarka, as well as other elders in Tiv land despite coming from different intermediate blocs.
He said it was high time the love Jato-Aka shared with his brothers be reciprocated by honouring and supporting Kwande to produce the next Governor in the state.
In their separate goodwill messages, Chairman of the occasion and immediate past Benue State Commissioner of Education, Prof. Dennis Ityavyar (represented by Hon. Ahile Gogo) and special guest of honour who is also a member, representing Kwande East at the Benue State House of Assembly, Engineer Tertsea Gbiseh, all said Tor Jato-Aka would continue to be remembered for his good deeds.
They also advised custodians of culture to emulate Jato-Aka even as they called on youths to respect elders just as Jato-Aka was respected by all.
DISCLAIMER
The OPINION / COLUMN is authored by independent contributors to the National Accord Newspaper. While contributors adhere to our editorial guidelines, they are not employed by the National Accord Newspaper. The perspectives and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not represent the views of the National Accord Newspaper or its staff.
Leave a Reply