From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
A concerned citizen of Ado, Ogbadibo, Okpokwu Federal Constituency, also known as Enone, Ikwumonu Agbo, has harped on the need for all Benue citizens to accord the state Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, maximum respect and commendation rather than heap unnecessary insults on him.
The business mogul and politician stated this while reacting to a television programme where the member representing Ado, Ogbadibo, Okpokwu Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, recently described Governor Alia as deaf and dumb.
“Ordinarily, I would not respond or make statement in respect of the insulting statement, but as a concerned constituent where Agbese represents at the moment in the green chamber, I wish to state categorically that I, and other well meaning sons and daughters of Enone, condemn and disassociate ourselves from the disrespectful statement against our revered governor.
“It is an absolute truism that the Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has consistently engaged with stakeholders at the grassroots. He is a listening governor. He listens to the concerns of the people, receives their advice and uses feedback to enhance his administration’s service delivery.
“The action governor is resolutely focused on policies and actions that attract long-term local and foreign investments to Benue State, knowing that every money of new investment in the state means new jobs, increased productivity for local consumption and export, and much needed economic growth.
“Therefore, on assumption of office, the workaholic governor prioritised prompt payment of salaries of civil servants, as well as clearing the backlog of retirees’ pensions and gratuities.
“Launching of the Benue State Agricultural Revolution (BSAR), to boost farming and food security, establishment of the Benue State Development Fund (BSDF) to support small businesses and entrepreneurs,”Agbo said in a statement.
He insisted that for all that the Governor has done so far, he deserves commendation and respect from the citizens of Benue State, and not insult or assassination of his character.
He said the Governor had demonstrated a clear vision for the state’s development, and was working assiduously to achieve it.
“The governor is focused, transparent and accountable in his sincere decisions and actions. He runs an inclusive administration, and is carrying everyone along regardless of ethnicity and political affiliations.
“It is on record that so far, nobody can fault his integrity. His administration prioritises the needs of the ordinary people of the state, and does not allow ego to get in his way of doing what is best,” he added.
While he alleged that Benue elite who had enjoyed the government’s patronage in preceding administrations in the state were not comfortable with the governor’s genuine actions, Agbo said Alia’s administration has made remarkable strides within one year, including subsidising fertilisers for farmers, revitalising moribund industries, reconstructing key infrastructures, as well as ensuring timely payment of salaries and pensions.
He said initiating road construction projects, especially the planned historical flyover in the state capital reflects a commitment to development and welfare of citizens.
“The people of Ado, Ogbadibo, Okpokwu Federal Constituency otherwise known as Enone are solidly behind the action of the governor to continue with his developmental projects in the state,” he stated.
He further stated that Governor Alia’s initiative of “No woman, No nation,” and “Alia cares,” focusing on lifting 6,000 women from poverty and to foster a harmonious and prosperous environment in the state, stands him tall among his colleagues.