A heated exchange has unfolded between the Benue State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party and the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The PDP has accused Governor Alia of running the state like a “Church Parish,” alleging a lack of adherence to democratic principles, transparency, and accountability.
In a statement, the PDP’s State Publicity Secretary, Tim Nyor, criticised the administration for focusing on “white elephant projects” at the expense of addressing pressing issues such as infrastructure decay, inadequate basic services, and diminishing public trust.
The party also called on the Governor to clear the backlog of salary arrears, pensions, and gratuities owed to workers and retirees.
Responding to these allegations, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, dismissed the PDP’s claims as “grossly misguided” and “devoid of substance and factual accuracy.”
Kula countered that the PDP’s criticisms reflect a lack of understanding of democratic principles, pointing to the party’s own record during its time in power.
Governor Alia’s administration highlighted its achievements, including strides in food security, the creation of employment opportunities, and reforms across critical sectors.
The government also pointed to Benue’s improved ranking to 9th place in the 2024 fiscal transparency league as evidence of its commitment to transparency and accountability.