By EMMANUEL ANTSWEN

Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has mourned the death of the first Professor of ?Zwa Tiv,? (Tiv Language) Prof. Kpamor Orkar.

This is contained in a statement on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Tersoo Kula in Makurdi.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Orkar was the elder brother of Maj. Gideon Orkar who was sentenced to death by the Ibrahim Babangida military regime for his involvement in a coup plot to unseat him.

Orkar died at a private hospital in Abuja, on Sunday, Jan. 5.

Alia said Orkar would always be remembered for some of the finest Tiv literary publications, authoring several books written in Tiv language.

The governor described the late Orkar as a great community leader, father and builder of many, adding that his influence as a politician and public servant, extended far beyond his immediate family and professional circle.

He said Orkar?s public service, excellence, knowledge, wisdom, guidance, and mentorship has shaped many generations, and would continue to inspire many to strive for excellence.

He prayed to God to console his immediate family, the people of Makurdi Local Government Area and Benue as a whole, and to equally grant Orkar eternal rest.

NAN reports that Orkar was a former councillor representing the Ugondo/ Mbasambo council ward of Gwer focal government area in 1978.

He was a member of the Benue State House of Assembly representing Yonov District Constituency of Makurdi local government in 1979.

He also served as commissioner for Works and Transport in the former governor Aper Aku?s administration. (NAN)

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