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From Hir Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
A group, Benue Alliance for Good Governance, (BAGG), has implored the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), Sen. George Akume, to rally round and use his exalted office to influence developmental projects to the state to complement what Governor Hyacinth Alia would be offering to the people of the state.
They also advised Governor Hyacinth Alia resist any attempt by external forces to entice him to cede his powers and duties to anyone seeking to hijack governance by any means.
Briefing newsmen in Makurdi, on Monday, the Convener of BAGG, Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe, expressed concerned over the tussle for political dominance by the powers that be in the state saying their acts have become a clog in the wheel of progress of Governor Alia’s administration.
Flanked by some of his executive members, Asambe who stated that the association was reacting to what they scribed as “critical developments” witnessed during the first five months of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s tenure in Benue State, said the Governor must be firm and ensure he sides with the people whose mandate he has to rule the state.
While urging Alia to ensure that the wishes and aspirations of the people remained paramount to his government, the group urge the Governor to prioritize welfare of the Benue people for the progress of all.
The group further appealed to all stakeholders, especially highly placed sons and daughters of the state to prioritize the welfare and progress of Benue State saying “A unified and responsible approach to governance is the cornerstone of a prosperous Benue State built on the principles of good governance.
They said “Now that Sen. George Akume has found himself among the opportune few who decide the fate of Nigerians and the only Tiv man ever to be elevated to this height, we earnestly call upon him to embark on a path of sacrifice for the betterment of our beloved state and its citizens.
“In recognition of the unwavering resilience displayed by the majority who endure these hardships, we implore Sen George Akume to use his exalted office to influence developmental projects to the state to complement what Governor Hyacinth Alia may have to offer.
“Let him and Governor Hyacinth Alia strive for a brighter future, one where the suffering of our people is finally alleviated,” they said.
“BAGG firmly reminds Governor Hyacinth Alia of the mandate entrusted to him and the corresponding responsibility associated with his office. We implore him to exhibit strong and independent leadership, resisting any enticement to cede his duties to external forces. The people of Benue State will not tolerate any deviation from this path, as we have seen in the past.”
They said “upholding accountability and transparency in governance is essential for the benefit of the citizens of Benue State. As the saying goes, ‘He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon,’ we expect Governor Hyacinth Alia to exercise discernment when entrusting leadership positions in the state and to maintain a prudent distance from long-time adversaries of Benue’s development.
“We reflect upon 24 years of enduring hardship and the painful struggles that Benue citizens have faced. We pity Gov. Alia who is presently experiencing serious leadership internal heat but keeps pretending to the public that all is well.
“It is also high time Governor Hyacinth Alia came out of the cocoon to open up on the monster being a clog in the wheels of his smooth takeoff. It is better to be defended by the people who gave you a mandate than to seek a shield under the umbrella of one man.
“As the saying goes, ‘A stitch in time saves nine.’ We urge timely and astute actions to address the current challenges for the greater good of Benue State.”
