UGONDO (Benue), Feb. 2026 (NAN) — Hon. Ephraim Agber formally presented himself to his kinsmen in Ugondo, Kusuv clan, Buruku Local Government Area of Benue, to seek their consent and blessings to contest for the Buruku Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
Agber, who addressed elders, youths, women and other stakeholders at a community gathering, said he considered it important to obtain the endorsement of his roots before embarking on what he described as a “meaningful political journey.”
“No meaningful journey begins without the approval of one’s roots,” he said, while outlining his vision for representation anchored on unity, purposeful leadership and strategic development across the constituency.
According to him, his decision to consult widely at home was guided by humility and respect for tradition, adding that his aspiration would remain accountable to the people’s expectations.
In a show of support, community leaders, youth representatives and stakeholders present at the meeting pledged their backing for his aspiration and offered prayers for his success.
The endorsement, NAN reports, was echoed across various groups at the event, with speakers urging the aspirant to prioritise inclusive development, community security and responsive representation if elected.
Veteran politicians from the area also declared support for the aspiration, describing their stance as a decision to strengthen community consensus ahead of the electoral process.
One of the elders, said the gathering reflected the community’s resolve to support leadership they considered prepared to listen and deliver.
“We have come together as one family to give our blessing and to encourage him to remain focused on the welfare of the people,” he said.
A cultural highlight of the visit was a traditional “hands and feet washing” performed by the most elderly man in the Kusuv clan, with the support of chiefs, elders, women and youths.
Community members described the rite as a symbolic gesture of cleansing, goodwill and acceptance, and prayed for peaceful progress and unity within the constituency.
Agber, who expressed gratitude for the reception, said the support he received reinforced his belief that the aspiration belonged to the people.
“What I witnessed today is bigger than me. It is a collective response to the long-standing desire of our people for purposeful leadership and development,” he said.
The meeting ended with prayers and goodwill messages from community leaders, who urged continued consultation and peaceful political engagement as activities gather momentum.
