Ameh Comrade Godwin: From pulpit to power: All eyes on Fr Alia in Benue

On May 29, 2023, Rev Fr Hyacinth Iormem Alia was on Monday sworn-in as the sixth executive governor of Benue State.

His inauguration was met with high expectations as the people eagerly anticipated his performance in office.

Interestingly, this is not the first time that a Catholic priest has assumed the role of Governor in the state.

Very Rev Fr Moses Orshio Adasu had previously held the position from 1992-1993, highlighting the significant role of religion in the political landscape of Benue State.

Thus, Alia’s election victory can be attributed, at least in part, to the support and endorsement he received from the Catholic community.

Looking back, Fr Adasu’s tenure as governor from 1992 to 1993 stands as a testament to the positive impact priests can have in governance.

Despite his short time in office before a military coup took place, Adasu left a remarkable legacy.

He founded Benue State University, established the Tarka Foundation, and played a pivotal role in reactivating and upgrading the College of Education in Oju.

Following in Adasu’s footsteps, Rev Fr Alia wasted no time and hit the ground running upon assuming office.

Nevertheless, the clergyman faces a range of critical tasks that require immediate attention and resolution.

The people of Benue State placed their trust in him, hoping that his spiritual background would guide his governance and bring positive change to the state.

Benue State, like many other states in Nigeria, grapples with issues such as insecurity, economic development, agricultural sustainability and social welfare.

One of the most pressing challenges is the ongoing clashes between herdsmen and farmers, which have plagued the state for the past eight years.

These conflicts have resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of property, and an overall sense of insecurity among the people.

Governor Alia must prioritise finding lasting solutions to these conflicts to restore peace and security in the region.

Additionally, tackling the state’s debt burden, salary arrears, especially for teachers and pensioners, is of utmost importance.

Another crucial aspect of Fr Alia’s agenda is the need to promote unity among the various tribes within Benue State, particularly the Idoma people and other minority tribes.

The previous government was accused of marginalising these groups in terms of appointments and infrastructure development.

However, some of the recent appointments made by the Governor have sparked controversy among the Idoma people, who expected more representation in his administration. It is too early to cry, anyway.

Reviving the agricultural sector, which earned Benue State the nickname “food basket of the nation,” is a key priority.

Massive investments in agriculture will be necessary to restore the state’s former glory in this sector.

Furthermore, the governor should consider revitalising industries such as the Otukpo burnt bricks, the Igumale cement factory, and the Benue Juice Company, while also prioritising youth empowerment initiatives.

Infrastructure development, especially in Benue South, requires attention. Roads such as Itabono road, Ukwo-Ugbugbu Road and Oju-Obi Road, among others, need urgent renovation and improvement.

It is crucial for the governor to ensure an equitable distribution of resources and infrastructure projects across the state.

While Alia is affiliated with the Catholic Church, it is important for him to demonstrate inclusivity and not show preferential treatment to any particular religious denomination.

All denominations should be carried along and given equal opportunities for engagement and participation in the state’s affairs.

Benue State boasts a rich talent base in the entertainment industry, with notable names like 2face Idibia, Blackface, Aterre, Terry G, and many others.

Investing in the entertainment sector can contribute to the state’s development and create opportunities for talented individuals.

Appointing someone from this talent pool as a commissioner or advisor for entertainment would be a commendable move.

While it is important to scrutinise the activities of the previous government, Governor Alia should resist the temptation to waste scarce state resources on political score-settling through unnecessary probes.

Instead, he should focus on moving the state forward, prioritising development, and improving the lives of the people.

Lastly, the review of the 2016 Benue Chieftaincy Law remains a paramount issue. It is crucial to filter out “political chiefs” from the system and ensure that the selection and appointment of traditional rulers are based on merit and the genuine representation of their respective communities.

In conclusion, as Alia assumes the governorship of Benue State, the people eagerly anticipate his ‘New Benue’ agenda and hope for positive change in various sectors.

For the people of Benue, it’s Yes Father!