The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has declared Thursday, June 11, a work-free day for civil servants in the state to enable them participate in the burial activities of the late Head of Service, Dr. Moses Agbogbo Ode.
The announcement followed a valedictory session held in honour of the deceased on Wednesday at the Old Banquet Hall of the Government House, Makurdi, where government officials and stakeholders gathered to pay tribute to his life and service.
At the session, Governor Alia also announced that a government housing estate for civil servants would be named after the late Head of Service, in recognition of his contributions to governance and public service reforms in the state.
The governor described Dr. Ode as a patriot, reformer, and key driver of the administration’s civil service reforms, noting that his death was a personal loss to him, the State Executive Council, the government, and the people of Benue State.
He explained that Dr. Ode was appointed strictly on merit after a careful review of several profiles, despite having no prior personal relationship with him, adding that the late Head of Service quickly aligned with the administration’s vision from the outset.
According to him, Dr. Ode played a vital role in strengthening the civil service structure and driving the implementation of government policies with discipline, commitment, and a strong sense of duty.
The governor further praised the deceased as hardworking, dependable, and deeply committed to the progress of the state, adding that he consistently delivered on his responsibilities and often exceeded expectations.
He also urged citizens to learn to appreciate and celebrate dedicated public servants while they are still alive, stressing the importance of recognising excellence in public service.
Governor Alia assured the bereaved family of the government’s full support during the period of mourning and pledged that the administration would stand by them.
He further disclosed that a civil servants’ housing estate acquired by the state government around the Welfare Quarters area would be named after Dr. Agbogbo Ode as a lasting tribute to his service, dedication, and legacy in public administration.