Benue State governor, Hyacinth Alia, has declared a work-free day for civil servants to enable them attend the burial of the late Head of Service, Dr Moses Agbogbo Ode.
The governor also announced that a government housing estate for civil servants will be named after Ode.
At a valedictory session held yesterday in honour of the deceased at Government House, Makurdi, Governor Alia described the Ode as a patriot, reformer and key contributor to the administration’s governance reforms.
The governor said his death was a personal loss to him, the State Executive Council (SEC), the government and the people of Benue, noting that Ode played a major role in strengthening the civil service and implementing government policies.
He recalled appointing Ode strictly on merit after reviewing several profiles, despite having no prior personal interaction with him.
According to the governor, Ode embraced the administration’s vision from the outset and helped drive reforms with discipline, patriotism, and commitment.
In a statement issued by governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Alia praised the late administrator as hardworking, dependable, and dedicated to the progress of Benue State, adding that he consistently delivered on assignments and exceeded expectations.
The governor also urged people to appreciate and celebrate dedicated public servants while they are alive.
Assuring the family of government support, Alia pledged to stand by them during the difficult period.
He announced that Thursday, “the day of Dr Ode’s burial, would be observed as a work-free day for all civil servants in the state.”
Alia further revealed that a civil servants’ housing estate acquired by the state government around the Welfare Quarters area would be named after Dr. Agbogbo Ode in recognition of his service.
