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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia has debunked the recent video circulating in the media in connection with the local government polls held last Saturday, describing it as misleading.
Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, at a press conference in Makurdi on Thursday, Governor Alia said the video was an attempt to score cheap political goals and tarnish his administration.
He said, “This video, which has been used to ridicule the Government of Benue State and the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, is nothing more than an unfortunate attempt by desperate individuals to score cheap political points.”
He said, “Upon thorough review, it is clear that the video is an obvious stage-managed drama, orchestrated by those who seek to undermine the good governance of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
“We found no credible evidence linking this fabricated content to the governor or his administration.”
The Chief Press Secretary said prior to the elections, credible sources informed them of underhand plans by some opposition elements to discredit the electoral process.
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He said, “This video appears to be one of their tactics to cast a shadow over what was a transparent and violence-free election.”
He said the election marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time in many years that voters in Benue had access to ballot papers for local government elections.
“For the first time in Benue State, since the final resurgence of democracy in Nigeria, BSIEC recruited and meticulously trained all ad hoc staff for the polls. There was also massive deployment of ad hoc staff, sensitive and nonsensitive materials distributed in the full glare of the media and political party agents.
“This achievement should be celebrated rather than tarnished. We urge journalists and media outlets, particularly Arise TV, which aired the misleading video and accompanying commentary, to uphold the ethics of their profession.”
He stated that as the light of society, it is crucial to cross-check facts and avoid being swayed by mere spectacle before going public.
He said the government of Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia remains committed to transparency and accountability in governance and will not be deterred by attempts to mislead the public.
