Women across the nine local government areas of Benue South district have thrown their weight behind the Labour Party (LP) ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election. The LP nominated Hon. Juliana Obetta as its deputy governorship candidate, making her the first woman in the state's history to secure such a nomination from a political party.
Royal Blessings for Obetta
The Paramount Ruler of Benue South, His Royal Majesty, Agaba-Idu, Dr. Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, Och'Idoma V, bestowed his royal blessings on Obetta during a civic reception in Otukpo on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The traditional ruler stated that Obetta's visit to the palace ahead of the election would attract royal and divine blessings.
Addressing a large gathering of women at the palace, the Och'Idoma said: "Your Excellency, I thank you for coming to the palace today. Before many Idoma people knew that you would emerge as the Deputy Governorship Candidate, I had already heard about it. We thank God in everything because, as you rightly said, it is God who gives power. If God could make it possible for me, He can make it possible for anyone. The key to every throne is in the hands of God."
Women Pledge Total Support
The Convener and women leader of Zone C, in her welcome address, declared: "The women of Zone C stand firmly with Hon. Juliana Obetta and pledge their total support to her, believing that she would justify the confidence reposed in her by contributing meaningfully to the development of our dear Benue State." This statement was made available to the press on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Obetta expressed satisfaction with the reception by the Royal Father and Traditional Council. The former Chairman of Okpokwu Local Government Council appreciated the Zone C women, led by Princess Rebecca Adah, for organizing the reception. She noted: "So, this is the first time I would be stepping into Zone C after my nomination. And if you step your feet on a land, the first place you go to is the Royal Palace, to go and receive Royal Blessings. And that's why we are here - to pay homage to our Royal Father and receive Royal Blessings also. To God be the Glory, he accepted us and blessed us very well."
Broader Political Context
In a related development, Dr. Esther Nkem Okereke has been announced as the National Rescue Movement (NRM) presidential candidate for the 2027 election. The NRM frames the 2027 election as a critical opportunity for national renewal and reform, with Okereke's campaign prioritizing security, economic revival, and youth empowerment.
