Things Fall Apart in Benue: A Wake-Up Call for Governor Alia

1..The controversial suspension of duly elected Local Government Chairmen on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) about two years ago has intensified the already strained relationship between the state government and the opposition. This move, widely perceived as politically motivated, has further polarized the political landscape.

2..The abrupt and controversial suspension of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairman Comrade Austin Agada , followed by the inauguration of a caretaker chairman at the Government House, plunged the ruling party into internal turmoil. The action, viewed by many party stakeholders as unconstitutional, has left the party divided and confused . Making it worse is the illegal constitution and recognition of a new caretaker committee despite court injunction and High Court Judgment declearing it illegal .

4..The rift between the Governor and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), along with nearly 80 percent of National Assembly members and federal appointees from Benue State—including all serving Senators—paints a troubling picture of widespread political isolation. This breakdown in relationships at the national level undermines Benue’s voice in federal affairs and development.

4.. The ongoing industrial dispute involving Judiciary workers, coupled with the failed attempt to illegally suspend the Chief Judge of the state, underscores a dangerous encroachment on judicial independence. Such actions weaken the rule of law and set a disturbing precedent for governance.

5..The illegal suspension of 13 members of the Benue State House of Assembly for a period of three months, and the refusal to recall them even after the suspension period elapsed.

6..The people of Benue South Senatorial District have repeatedly cried out over marginalization—not only in the area of appointments and infrastructural development but also in how their security concerns are treated with levity by the state government. This perceived neglect is fast eroding their trust in the current administration.

7.State government appointees and elected Local Government Chairmen continue to lament the lack of welfare support, which has significantly hampered their ability to perform their duties effectively. This neglect undermines grassroots governance and service delivery.

Above all, insecurity across the state continues to worsen. Communities live in fear, with reports of attacks and displacement becoming distressingly common. The government’s response has been largely inadequate, leaving the people feeling abandoned.

It is worth noting that while the regular payment of salaries is commendable, it is no longer a unique achievement—no Governor in Nigeria is currently owing workers. Beyond salaries and a few ongoing projects, one must ask: Is Benue progressing or retrogressing after two years of this administration?

Are we more united as a people or more divided?

Is the Governor, as the leader of the state, truly playing the role of a unifier, peacemaker, and bridge-builder?

Benue stands at a crossroads. The Governor must rise above political vendettas, listen to the voices of the people, and take urgent, decisive steps to restore unity, good governance, and security in the state.

The time to act is now.