By Sam Tyav, Makurdi
As the sun set on Dr. Moses Agbogbo Ode, Benue State Head of Service (HoS), Governor Hyacinth Alia has named the government’s housing estate for civil servants after the top civil servant.
Governor Alia also declared tomorrow (Thursday) a work-free day to enable the state’s civil servants pay their last respects to the deceased at his burial.
Speaking during a valedictory session held today in honour of the late HoS at the old Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi, the state capital, the Governor was effusive with eulogies on the late HoS, describing him variously as a patriot, reformer, and key contributor to his administration’s governance reforms.
The HoS’ death, the Governor noted, was a personal loss to him, the State Executive Council, the government and the people of the state, revealing that Dr. Ode played a major role in strengthening the civil service and implementing government policies.
According to the Governor, Dr. Ode’s appointment was strictly on merit, after he (Alia) reviewed several profiles, despite having no prior personal interaction with him.
Dr. Ode, according to Alia, embraced the administration’s vision from the outset and helped drive reforms with discipline, patriotism, and commitment.
Alia who further described Ode as hardworking, dependable, and dedicated to the progress of Benue State, added that he consistently delivered on assignments and exceeded expectations even as the Governor urged people to appreciate and celebrate dedicated public servants while they are alive.
The Governor assured the family of the deceased bureaucrat of government’s support and pledged to stand by them during the difficult period.
He disclosed that Thursday, the day of Dr. Ode’s burial, would be observed as a work-free day for all civil servants in the state, announcing that the civil servants’ housing estate acquired by the state government around the Welfare Quarters, Makurdi, would be named after Dr. Ode in recognition of his service.
The Governor prayed for Almighty God’s comfort for the family and eternal rest for the soul of the late public servant.
*PHOTO CAPTION: The late Dr. Ode.
