Alia declares work-free day for Benue civil servants to honour late Head of Service

Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has called on civil servants in the state to pay their last respects to the late Head of Service, Dr. Moses Agbogbo Ode, whose burial is scheduled for Thursday.

Governor Alia appealed on Wednesday during a valedictory session held in honour of the deceased at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi.

Dr. Ode passed away on May 2, 2026, leaving behind what the governor described as an enduring legacy of service, professionalism, and commitment to the development of Benue State.

In recognition of his contributions, Governor Alia announced that Thursday would be observed as a work-free day for all civil servants in the state, allowing them to participate fully in the burial activities and honour the late administrator.

The governor also disclosed that a housing estate acquired by the state government for civil servants around the Welfare Quarters area would be named after Dr. Agbogbo Ode as a lasting tribute to his service and dedication.

Paying glowing tribute to the late Head of Service, Governor Alia described him as a patriot, reformer, and one of the key drivers of the administration’s efforts to reposition the civil service and improve governance in the state.

According to the governor, Dr. Ode’s death was not only a loss to the government and people of Benue State but also a deeply personal loss to him.
He noted that the late Head of Service played a critical role in strengthening the civil service, ensuring effective implementation of government policies, and advancing reforms aimed at improving public service delivery.

Governor Alia recalled that Dr. Ode’s appointment was based strictly on merit after a careful review of several profiles, even though they had no prior personal relationship before he emerged as Head of Service.

“I appointed him based on competence and merit. We had never met personally before then, but from the moment he assumed office, he embraced the vision of this administration and worked tirelessly to ensure its success,” the governor said.

He added that the late Head of Service distinguished himself through discipline, patriotism, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to duty, qualities that earned him the trust and admiration of both government officials and civil servants.

Governor Alia further described Dr. Ode as hardworking, dependable, and result-oriented, noting that he consistently delivered on assignments and often exceeded expectations.

He urged public office holders and citizens alike to cultivate the habit of appreciating and celebrating dedicated public servants while they are still alive, rather than waiting until after their death.

The governor also assured the bereaved family of the government’s support, pledging that the state would continue to stand by them during the difficult period.

“As a government, we will continue to support the family and ensure that the sacrifices and contributions of Dr. Moses Agbogbo Ode are not forgotten,” he said.

He prayed for God’s comfort upon the family and loved ones left behind and asked God to grant the late Head of Service eternal rest.

The valedictory session was attended by top government officials, civil servants, political leaders, family members, and associates who gathered to celebrate the life and service of the late Head of Service, whose contributions to the Benue State civil service were widely acknowledged as impactful and exemplary.

Dr. Ode will be laid to rest on Thursday, with civil servants across the state expected to join family members, friends, and government officials in bidding him a final farewell.