The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has criticised Governor Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing him of running the state like a Catholic Church parish.
In a statement released by its State Publicity Secretary, Tim Nyor, the PDP alleged that Governor Alia’s administration undermines democratic principles and disregards transparency and accountability. Alia, a former Catholic priest, transitioned into politics during the 2023 general elections.
The PDP’s statement reads:
“It has become increasingly clear that the Alia administration operates more like a Catholic parish than a democratic government, undermining the principles and values that citizens of Benue deserve.
Under Governor Alia’s leadership, there has been a blatant disregard for accountability, transparency, rule of law, political stability, and inclusiveness. The administration avoids engaging with the people, choosing secrecy over public involvement in decisions that directly impact lives.
Key issues such as decaying infrastructure, inadequate basic services, and eroding public trust remain unaddressed. Instead, the government prioritises white elephant projects, including new government houses, universities, and stalled underpass projects in Makurdi and Gboko.
We demand that Governor Alia honour his campaign promises by immediately clearing the backlog of salary arrears, pensions, and gratuities. With states receiving record allocations from the Federation Account, as confirmed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is alarming that Benue workers remain unpaid, some of whom are already on strike.
Despite the unprecedented funds available to his administration, displaced persons remain unsettled, with no progress in returning them to their farmlands, as promised during his campaign.”
The statement continued:
“Governor Alia’s silence amid the brutal killings of Benue citizens is unacceptable. Security has never been this poor, and his administration has failed to take concrete measures to address these atrocities.
The treatment of other arms of government, such as the Benue State House of Assembly, is equally troubling. The Assembly operates from makeshift facilities with plastic chairs and has become ineffective under his administration. Freezing state accounts and neglecting the Assembly Complex only further demonstrate his lack of regard for the Legislature.
Good governance is not a slogan; it is a necessity for development and the well-being of citizens. Unfortunately, the Alia government has shown a lack of competence, character, and capacity. The absence of effective communication and responsiveness has left many citizens feeling marginalised.
Governor Alia must remember that he serves the people, not a parish. His administration needs to shift focus from personal interests to the collective welfare of Benue citizens.
We call on the governor to recommit to democratic ideals, prioritising accountability, transparency, and stakeholder participation in governance. The PDP will continue to advocate for a government that listens to its people and upholds the principles of democracy in Benue State.”
