October 13, (THEWILL) — Prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) have commended Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, for his strides in infrastructure, security, and peacebuilding since assuming office two years ago.
Former Deputy Governor of Benue State, Chief Steve Lawani; member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, Pastor Ojotu Ojoma of the PDP; and Labour Party lawmaker in the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Cephas Dyako, all hailed Governor Alia for fostering unity in the state despite political distractions.
Speaking at the expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting held over the weekend in Makurdi, another PDP lawmaker also announced plans to defect to the APC in support of the governor’s efforts to deliver more dividends of democracy to Benue people.
Former Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, Prof. Steve Ugba, said President Bola Tinubu and Governor Alia have made their re-election bids easier through their performance and commitment to good governance.
Addressing the meeting, Governor Alia expressed gratitude to APC members for their steadfast support, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to Benue’s development and unity.
The meeting also welcomed several defectors from the PDP, African Democratic Congress (ADC), and LP, alongside their supporters, into the APC fold in the state.
Alia said the movement of key political figures to the APC reflected growing confidence in his administration.
“This overwhelming support from opposition stakeholders shows that our work is yielding positive results,” he noted.
The governor highlighted major achievements, including a notable reduction in insecurity across local government areas through collaborative peace efforts.
He also reiterated his administration’s focus on agriculture, announcing new funding and resources to boost farmers’ productivity and promote sustainable growth.
Alia expressed concern over contractors who defrauded the state under the guise of supplying fertiliser, warning that those found guilty would be held accountable.
On education, he revealed that the state government had commenced extensive renovation of primary schools, stressing that quality education remained a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda.
He reassured party members of his commitment to transparency, citing prompt salary payments as proof of his government’s prioritisation of workers’ welfare.
“As we fight for the masses, we remain resolute in our pursuit of peace and stability in Benue,” Alia declared.
The governor also commended the APC Women’s Leader for advocating the needs of women, pledging continued support for initiatives that empower them. “I promise to keep prioritising issues affecting women,” he affirmed.
He further appreciated the Central Working Committee of the party, led by Chief Benjamin Omale, for its dedication to strengthening the APC in Benue.
“Your commitment is a testament to true leadership,” Alia said.
Earlier, the APC State Caretaker Committee Chairman, Chief Benjamin Omale, praised Governor Alia for his achievements, describing him as a leader who has not disappointed the people or the party.
Omale added that the defection of opposition figures to the APC was a clear indication that Alia’s second-term bid was already gaining traction, urging party members to unite for the continued progress of the state.
