Exposing Desperate Attempts to Halt the Renovation of the Okpokwu Township Stadium

At TVN, we are committed to uncovering stories that matter to communities, exposing challenges, and advocating for positive change. One such pressing issue is the ongoing saga surrounding the renovation of the Okpokwu Township Stadium, a project that has become mired in controversy.

The renovation, facilitated by Hon. Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese, the member representing Ado/Ogbadibo/Okpokwu Federal Constituency and Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, was meant to breathe new life into this vital community infrastructure. However, TVN has uncovered desperate attempts by the current Chairman of Okpokwu Local Government, Hon. Inalegwu Nasko Adah, to scuttle this progress.

TVN Investigates: How It All Began

The Okpokwu Township Stadium renovation project began smoothly, with cooperation between all stakeholders, including the contractor, the host community, and the former local government administration led by Hon. Douglas Onyilo. According to TVN sources, the outgone executive council provided full support, including security for workers, ensuring the project progressed without hitches.

However, the situation took a dramatic turn when the new Chairman, Hon. Inalegwu Nasko Adah, assumed office in October 2024. Ignoring records and established protocols, Hon. Nasko stormed the site with security operatives, ordering an abrupt halt to the work.

Uncovers Allegations of Financial Demands

As TVN delved deeper, shocking allegations of financial impropriety emerged. According to the Project Monitoring Committee, chaired by Mrs. Paulyn Nath Daniel, the Head of Department (H.O.D) for Works, acting on behalf of the Chairman, began demanding financial gratification to allow work to continue. TVN verified claims that these demands were documented, with the H.O.D allegedly stating that nothing would proceed unless the contractor paid “his dues.”

The situation escalated when the Chairman’s Chief of Staff personally visited the contractor in Abuja, ostensibly to collect the demanded funds. Despite the contractor’s plea for understanding, citing cash flow tied to project milestones, the harassment persisted.

At TVN, we hold transparency and accountability as core values. The Project Monitoring Committee’s assertion that its members have never solicited or received any funds underscores the integrity of their mandate. Their role remains solely to ensure quality and timely completion of the stadium renovation.

Detailing the Arrests and Harassment

On multiple occasions, security operatives acting on the Chairman’s orders arrested workers at the site. TVN has confirmed three such instances within two months, each time with no formal charges or allegations of misconduct against the workers.

A particularly disturbing incident occurred on November 16, 2024, when the Chairman reportedly claimed to be acting on “orders from above.” However, TVN has found no evidence linking these orders to the governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. On the contrary, other federally facilitated projects in Okpokwu Local Government Area have continued unhindered, raising questions about why this particular project faces such resistance.

TVN Investigates the Chairman’s Claims

In a recorded conversation between the contractor and the Chairman, obtained by TVN, Hon. Nasko insisted that work must stop and accused workers of trespassing. Despite earlier verbal approval to proceed, he cited non-existent MoUs and failed to address allegations of financial demands by his appointees. TVN analysis suggests that these actions are part of a deliberate effort to frustrate the project.

Why This Project Matters

The Okpokwu Township Stadium holds immense value for the community. It is not just a sporting facility; it is a symbol of hope, a hub for youth development, and a potential economic catalyst. TVN emphasizes that its renovation will:

• Enhance Youth Development: Providing a space for sports and recreational activities, the stadium is pivotal in fostering talent and reducing youth restiveness.
• Boost the Local Economy: Events hosted at the stadium could attract visitors, create jobs, and increase local revenue.
• Promote Community Pride: A functional stadium serves as a unifying symbol and instills pride among the residents of Okpokwu.

TVN recognizes the efforts of Hon. Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese in facilitating this project under the 2024 Appropriation Act. His commitment to the progress of Okpokwu is evident in his proactive engagement with the community and unwavering support for the renovation.

What Needs to Be Done

Time is running out. The Project Monitoring Committee has warned that if the renovation is not completed by December 31, 2024, it risks being abandoned due to budgetary constraints. This dire situation demands immediate intervention.

TVN calls on key stakeholders, including:

• Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia
• Hon. Anthony Agom, Member representing Okpokwu in the Benue State House of Assembly
• Local legislators and community leaders
• Clergy, royal fathers, and youth groups

These stakeholders must prevail upon the Chairman to end the obstruction and allow work to resume. The Okpokwu Township Stadium is too important to be derailed by personal interests.

Holding Leaders Accountable

As a platform dedicated to investigative journalism, TVN vows to keep this issue in the public eye. Should the project fail, TVN will ensure the world knows who is responsible. Hon. Inalegwu Nasko Adah must answer for his actions, and TVN will continue to demand accountability on behalf of the Okpokwu community.

Stands with the People

The Okpokwu Township Stadium renovation represents more than bricks and mortar; it symbolizes a brighter future for the community. At TVN, we stand with the people of Okpokwu and pledge to champion their rights to development and progress.

This situation is a critical test of leadership and governance. Will personal interests overshadow the collective good? TVN will remain steadfast in reporting the truth and amplifying the voices of those who demand change.

Conclusion

The desperate attempts to halt the Okpokwu Township Stadium renovation are a stark reminder of the challenges communities face in pursuing progress. Yet, the resilience of the Project Monitoring Committee and the determination of concerned citizens give hope.

At TVN, we believe in the power of truth to drive change. The people of Okpokwu deserve a fully renovated stadium, and TVN will not relent until justice is served. Stay tuned as TVN continues to uncover the facts and advocate for accountability in this unfolding saga.