Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has issued a stern warning to his predecessors against interfering in his administration.
Speaking to journalists upon his return from the United States on Friday, Governor Alia declared that he would not tolerate any attempts to distract or destabilize his government.
“I will not allow anyone, whether a former governor or civil servant, to interfere in my administration,” Alia emphasized. “If you are a former governor with nothing constructive to contribute to Benue, remain silent. You have had your turn. Allow this administration to work.”
Alia stressed that while constructive criticism was welcome, it must be based on verified facts. “If you have served your term, you cannot stay on the sidelines and attempt to destabilize this government,” he said.
The governor explained that he had been invited by the United States Peace Institute, along with nine other governors from Northern Nigeria, to discuss strategies for addressing insecurity in the region.
“We explored various solutions, including the repatriation of displaced persons, which is a top priority for me,” Alia said.
He emphasized that Benue’s image had been tarnished in the past but that he was committed to restoring its reputation. “Benue will no longer be ignored at the national level,” he declared. “We will become a model state that others will emulate.”
Alia urged residents to prioritize security and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. “Each individual is a security agent,” he said. “We must go beyond ‘seeing something, saying something.’ Don’t let anyone bribe you or intimidate you into selling out your people or your land.”
“Work with security personnel to ensure their effectiveness,” Alia concluded. “They are here for us and with us. If anyone wants to use you to steal livestock or cause harm, tell them to bring their own children to participate.”
