Benue State’s Governor Hyacinth Alia has warned his predecessors against “interfering” in his administration, while explaining why he and nine others from the North visited the United States.
Rev. Fr. Alia served the warning to his predecessors, while briefing journalists in Makurdi on his return from the US.
Recently, Alia’s immediate predecessor, Samuel Ortom, publicly said those advising the Governor to antagonise the Secretary General of the Federation, Senator George Akume (also a former Governor), did not have the interest of the state.
Speaking to journalists in Makurdi, Alia said: “I can’t allow anyone whether a former Governor or Civil Servant. If you are a former Governor and you have nothing to contribute to Benue, shut up. You had your term you went through it, and allowed the administration to work.
“You did your part and if you are in the state know exactly what you are saying. Criticisms are welcomed but verify your facts
“If you have served your tenure you cannot stay by the side and destabilize this government.”
Giving highlights of his visit to the US, the Governor said that he along with nine other governors of the North were invited by the US Peace Institute to chart a way forward on insecurity confronting the region.
“Ten Governors were there and several things were considered for implementation. Amongst them is how to get the displaced persons back homes, which is paramount to me.
“I have been away in the last eight days to sell the image of the state and clear its battered image.
“In the past, Benue wasn’t even on the national radar. It’s going to be a place where other states will come to learn, emulate, and take back to their states.
“Farmers are getting back to farming in Gwer West, Gwer East, Guma, and Makurdi among others are enjoying relative peace.
“Those of us at the home front must do our best. Each person is a security personnel and it must go beyond seeing something and saying something
“Don’t let anybody buy you off to sell your people don’t let anyone cow you to sell off your land.
“Cooperate with security apparatus to give us their best. The uniformed people are here with us and for us. If someone wants to use you to steal cows or to cause mischief, tell them to bring back their children.”
