Benue monarchs, politicians storm Abuja for David Mark

Taiwo Adisa, Abuja - 26.02.2008

The President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, on Monday received hundreds of supporters, political leaders of Benue state who visited his office in the National Assembly and his official residence at the Apo mansion to pay solidarity visits.

Also on Monday, a delegation of the state traditional institution led by the Och’Otukpo Odu, Chief John Eimonye and the Vice Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Mrs. Vicky Agada, also paid a solidarity visit to Mark.

The team decribed Mark as the undisputed leader of Idoma people.

The groups, while describing the ruling of the election petition tribunal on Mark’s election as a temporary setback, said that they were in support of Mark continuing in office.

Mark told the delegation that he was encouraged by the solidarity so far, adding that he would not be deterred by the ruling of the tribunal.

He said that he had been strengthened by the support and expression of solidarity, noting that he had confidence in the judiciary.

“I have no doubt that I will win at the appeal court. I have hope and faith in the judiciary and I am sure justice will prevail.

“My opponent, Usman Abubakar, is only exercising his democratic freedom, it is part of democracy, but I know that at the end of the day, victory will be mine and democracy.

“I will not lose focus because I am confident that justice will prevail. Benue State is Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and I know that my people voted for me massively. Justice is only delayed, it can neither be denied nor stopped,” he said.

He advised the people to remain calm and law abiding, adding “that power or victory comes from God and God will surely give us victory, He never fails.”