By Manasseh Akawe, Makurdi
Hon. David Sevav has emerged victorious in the keenly contested election for the Tor Sankera stool, succeeding the late Chief Abu King Shuluwa.
The election, held at Akume Atongo stadium, Katsina Ala, saw Sevav secure 38 votes, while Dr. Tiza Suswam and Dr. Thomas Mlanga garnered 4 and 1 votes, respectively.
A panel led by Hon. Denen Aondoakaa, Special Advisor to the Governor of Benue State on Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, facilitated the election process. Other members of the panel included the Secretary, Tiv Traditional Council, Mr. Tyozua Shinyi, district heads, and Imue-ter, who served as delegates.
Sevav, a renowned politician, businessman, and philanthropist, boasts an impressive academic and professional background. Born on October 1, 1968, in Tse Tor-Najime, Kendev council ward of Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State, Sevav began his educational journey at LGEA Primary School, Bossua, Ukum LGA.
He proceeded to acquire his secondary school education at Ngenev Community Secondary School, Sankera, obtaining his WASSCE in 1989. Sevav’s thirst for knowledge led him to Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, where he completed a Certificate Course in 1993 and later obtained a National Diploma in 1997.
Sevav’s academic pursuits continued at the University of Calabar, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Management in 2010. He further obtained a Second Degree in Business Management/Entrepreneurship from the National Open University of Nigeria, Makurdi Study Centre in 2014.
Prior to his emergence as Tor Sankera, Sevav had a distinguished career in public service. He began his career as a civil servant on October 1, 1994, with the Area Education Authority in Ukum Local Government Area.
Sevav’s leadership acumen and administrative expertise led to his emergence as the chairman, Ukum Local Government Council where he was later unanimously elected as Chairman, Benue State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) by his colleagues from 2011 to 2012.
Currently, Sevav serves as the Board Chairman, First Fertility Hospital Makurdi, Managing Director, Twins Table Water, Zaki-Biam, and CEO, Tyosev Global Farm’s NIG. Ltd.
A devout Christian of the Catholic faith, Sevav is happily married with children. As he assumes his new role as Tor Sankera, he is expected to bring his wealth of experience to bear in promoting the welfare, securing the lives and properties of his people and ensuring development of the area.
A certificate of return was presented to Chief Sevav by the representatives of the Tiv Area Traditional Council.