Nigerian Concord Newspaper
The Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barrister Sam Ode, mni, has condemned the unnecessary social media controversies over the office of the first lady of the state.
Barr. Ode raised his concerns this evening in a statement by Ior Ikyereve, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Benue State.
Recall that there were viral arguments on the social media yesterday that Barrister Sam Ode’s wife, Mrs Christie Ada Sam-Ode should be handed the portfolio of Benue State first lady since the governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia is unmarked being a Catholic priest.
The statement reads:
The Office of the Deputy Governor of Benue State has observed with concern the unnecessary controversy and misleading discussions circulating on various social media platforms regarding the position of First Lady in Benue State.
For the avoidance of doubt, Mrs. Christie Ada Sam-Ode is the wife of the Deputy Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, mni. By virtue of this status, she is the wife of the Deputy Governor and not the First Lady of Benue State.
It is important to state unequivocally that the position of First Lady in a state is traditionally and officially occupied by the wife of the Governor. Furthermore, the Governor reserves the prerogative to assign responsibilities within his administration as he deems appropriate. Consequently, Mrs. Christie Ada Sam-Ode is neither entitled to nor lays claim to the position of First Lady of Benue State. Any insinuation to the contrary is misleading, unfounded, and should be disregarded.
As the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sam-Ode remains committed to supporting her husband in the discharge of his responsibilities and in advancing initiatives that complement the administration’s efforts towards the development and welfare of the people of Benue State. Her role is focused on supporting the Deputy Governor as he carries out duties delegated or assigned to him from time to time by the Governor.
Moreover, the Deputy Governor and his family have continued to enjoy a cordial and productive working relationship with the Governor of Benue State and other key actors within the government. This relationship is anchored on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to delivering good governance and sustainable development to the people of the State.
We therefore urge members of the public to disregard any misleading narratives intended to create unnecessary distractions or sow discord where none exists.
We believe this clarification should finally put to rest the needless controversy and debate currently making the rounds in the social media space.
Ior Ikyereve
Deputy Chief Press Secretary,
Office of the Deputy Governor, Benue State
Wednesday, June 17, 2026.