JS Tarka Stadium Goes Agog As Gwer East, Gboko II Youths Battle For Awunah’s N1m Prize, Trophy

From Abdullateef Bambgose

Thousands of football enthusiasts and supporters of Hon. Dave Awunah, a frontline aspirant for the Benue North Senatorial District in the 2027 senatorial election, stormed the JS Tarka Stadium, Gboko, as early as 9 a.m. for the grand finale of the Dave Awunah Zone B 2026 Invitational Soccer Tournament.

The one-week football fiesta attracted youths in their thousands from Guma, Makurdi, Gwer West and Gwer East Local Government Areas, turning the stadium into a centre of excitement and celebration.

The invitational tournament, our correspondent gathered, was organised as part of Hon. Awunah’s commitment to youth development, taking young people off the streets and campaigning against drug abuse, narcotics and other social vices.
Awunah, who has consistently projected himself as a strong advocate for youth empowerment, has in recent months supported youths, women, widows and artisans across the Benue North Senatorial District.

He has also reportedly received blessings and endorsements from several traditional rulers within the district.
One traditional ruler, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to his position, described Awunah as a rare politician with genuine concern for the people.

“For the first time, we are witnessing a selfless politician who matches his words with action by empowering women, youths and widows, even before assuming office,” he said.

He added, “No candidate can stand against him in the next election. We will vote for him massively.”
Many political observers believe Awunah currently enjoys strong grassroots support across the senatorial district.

Youths from the various local government areas have also continued to express strong support for his senatorial ambition, describing him as a leader with compassion and vision.

A philanthropist and youth mobiliser, Titus Apenda from Guma, linked Awunah’s generosity to his late father, Padopas.

“Generosity runs in their blood. It is a natural trait, and he is not doing it for selfish reasons. He may have inherited it from his father,” Apenda said.