ALIA HAS SQUANDERED HIS GOODWILL FASTER THAN HE GOT IT
…The Gov Must Stop Harassing the People
We, the undersigned members of the two concerned groups, Defenders of Democracy (DoD) and Alliance for Truth and Justice (ATJ), are compelled to express our utter disappointment and condemnation of the recent actions taken by the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia. His decree-like order prohibiting all public gatherings, including religious ceremonies and burials, has not only sparked outrage but has also raised grave concerns regarding the erosion of democratic principles and the rights of the people he was elected to serve.
What is more hypocritical is the fact that Governor Alia, his appointees and political associates have been holding public events including political rallies, thanksgiving services with exotic receptions, elaborate birthday celebrations and carnivals across the state in gross violation of the order they issued, but the same government officials turn around to expect other people to obey the order without any complaints. Nothing can be more despotic and despicable than that. What type of man of God is this?
Since yesterday, the social media is awash with reports of ugly events at the burial of an elder in Konshisha known as Vaaswem Fave Uchichi who was the father-in-law of the Senator representing Benue North East Senatorial District, Senator Emmanuel Udende.
That unfortunate incident at the burial starkly illustrates the disturbing trajectory of Governor Alia’s leadership. While the governor claims to be enforcing stringent restrictions on public gatherings, he and his supporters have continued to hold rallies and gatherings, blatantly disregarding the very orders he imposed. This hypocrisy is not only alarming but reveals a concerning pattern of behaviour that has undermined the spirit of governance and public trust.
At the funeral in Konshisha, the reports we have read indicate that the actions of the Council Chairman of Konshisha, Chikyaa Moses, and the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Aondowase Kunde, manifested a worrying level of intolerance and disrespect for peace and humanity.
We understand that the duo of Governor Alia’s officials yesterday invaded the funeral and insisted that certain persons must not be allowed to speak at the event. Those they said must not be allowed to speak at the burial were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume who was represented by Prof Iyorwuese Hagher, former Benue State Governor, Chief Samuel Ortom, the Senator representing Benue North West Senatorial District, Senator Titus Zam and the Executive Director, Housing Finance and Accounts of the Federal Housing Authority, Dr Matthias Byuan. Chairman Chikyaa and Commissioner Kunde said they were acting on directives from their boss Governor Alia.
As pro-democracy groups, we find the hostile conduct of Alia’s agents as a chilling reminder of authoritarian tactics that stifle free expression and dissent. Such actions are unbecoming of a leader who professes to stand for the welfare of the masses.
Governor Alia’s disregard for the principles of humility, love, and compassion, the very values he professed while being ordained as a priest, has betrayed the essence of servant leadership. The disruption of a sacred and solemn gathering, meant to honour a beloved elder, is not only a personal affront to the family and community but also a broader violation of our societal values. It is a sad pointer to how swiftly goodwill can be squandered by those in power when they prioritize personal and political agenda over the welfare of the public.
We urge Governor Alia to reflect on his actions and the implications they hold for the future of our dear state. Leadership is not merely about power and authority; it is about responsibility, accountability, and respect for the rights of all citizens. We call upon him to:
1. Immediately lift the mundane biased ban on public gatherings and allow the people of Benue State to exercise their rights to assemble and express themselves freely.
2. Foster an environment where all voices, regardless of political affiliation, are heard and respected in public forums.
3. Lead with compassion and humility, reflecting the values of service and community that he espoused during his campaign.
4.Order the release of all opposition members his government has arrested and detained on account of mere criticism of his leadership style.
5.Desist from further harassment and persecution of perceived political opponents and heating up the political atmosphere.
The people of Benue State deserve a Governor who prioritizes their welfare, upholds democratic values, and acts in the best interest of all. We stand united in our commitment to advocate for these principles and will not waver in our pursuit of accountability.
Signed:
Aloysius Gbakaan
President, Alliance for Truth and Justice (ATJ)
Amos Achiv
President, Defenders Of Democracy (DoD).
