By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, has honoured Chief Timothy Gudu following his coronation as the traditional ruler of the Tiv people in Tungan-Maje District, Gwagwalada Area Council of Abuja.
Speaking during the colourful coronation ceremony held over the weekend, Akume congratulated the newly installed monarch and described his emergence as a significant milestone for the Tiv community residing in the Federal Capital Territory.
The SGF, who was represented at the event by Comrade Cletus Uchin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Cincley Integrated Nigeria Limited, urged Chief Gudu to use his new position to foster unity, peace, and harmonious coexistence among the Tiv people and their host Communities.
Akume emphasized that traditional rulers occupy a critical role in grassroots leadership and community development, noting that their influence remains vital in promoting stability and cultural identity among their people.
He further called on the Tiv nation and the broader Benue Community to remain united and supportive of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly as the country approaches another general election cycle.
According to him, continued support for the President would ensure sustained development, inclusiveness, and national cohesion across all regions of the country.
The SGF also stressed the importance of preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Tiv people, urging the newly crowned monarch to safeguard traditions and values for the benefit of future generations.
In his remarks, Chief Timothy Gudu expressed profound gratitude to the Tiv Community for finding him worthy to serve as their traditional leader, pledging to discharge his responsibilities with integrity, fairness, and dedication.
The monarch, who hails from Mbabai in Utyondu, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, assured his people that he would work tirelessly to promote peace, unity, and development within the Community.
He also called on members of the Tiv Community in Tungan-Maje to support his leadership and conduct themselves in a manner that would bring honour and progress to their people.
Our correspondent gathered that Chief Gudu is a long-standing supporter of Senator Akume, who is widely regarded as a political leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State and the North-Central region of Nigeria.
The coronation ceremony attracted dignitaries from various walks of life, including political leaders, traditional rulers, and members of the Tiv Community in Abuja , who gathered to celebrate what many described as a historic and unifying moment.
Observers noted that the event not only marked the installation of a new traditional leader but also reinforced the enduring cultural identity and solidarity of the Tiv people living outside their ancestral homeland.
The occasion featured cultural displays, goodwill messages, and renewed calls for unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective progress among the Tiv Community and their neighbours in the Federal Capital Territory.
