Governor Alia unveils 23 grassroots pointmen in Benue
By Atondu Titus, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, has made a significant move to consolidate the All Progressives Congress (APC) structure and his administration’s grassroots presence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Over the weekend, the governor hosted two major political events in Makurdi, a pre-decamping dinner and an expanded caucus meeting where he officially unveiled 23 Pointmen, also known as Gubernatorial Liaison Officers (GLOs), for all local government areas (LGAs) in the state.
The state capital was charged with political excitement on Friday, October 10, as the APC organized a dinner at the Government House in honor of prominent Benue sons and daughters who signaled their intent to join the ruling party.
Governor Alia described the event as a gathering for fellowship and dialogue, aimed at strengthening bonds and mapping out strategies for the state's collective growth.
He reiterated his commitment to rebuilding Benue through inclusive governance and transparency, stressing that the task of repositioning the state transcends political affiliations.
The governor defended his administration's decision to take a loan for the first time, noting it was essential to complete ongoing infrastructural projects while maintaining fiscal discipline and offsetting inherited debts.
"This administration will continue to fight for the soul of Benue State. Our collective effort is needed to rebuild our land and restore the dignity of our people," he declared.
Several politicians praised Governor Alia's leadership and achievements within a short period. The member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, Hon. Pastor Ojotu Ojema, announced his decision to join the APC, citing the governor’s transformational strides in infrastructure and the regular payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities.
Former NAFDAC Director General, Dr. Paul Orhii, stated that Benue had become a construction site under Governor Alia's watch, while former Commissioner for Information, Mrs. Ngunan Addingi, pledged to mobilize women and youths in support of the administration.
The State APC Chairman, Dr. Benjamin Omale, attributed the party's rising popularity to the governor's performance across various sectors. Hon. Solomon Wombo, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, explained that the dinner was a prelude to the formal defection of politicians from other parties into the APC in the coming days.
Barely 24 hours after the dinner, Governor Alia convened an expanded caucus meeting of the APC at the Soft Arena Hall in Makurdi, attended by party elders, legislators, appointees, and stakeholders from all 23 LGAs.
The main highlight was the announcement of 23 Gubernatorial Liaison Officers (GLOs), designated as "Pointmen," tasked with coordinating political and administrative activities at the grassroots level.
Governor Alia explained that the appointments are designed to bridge communication gaps and strengthen coordination between his administration, the party, and the people. He instructed the new appointees to act as chief servants and a direct link between the government and the populace.
"If there is need, you should be the first person, your people should be able to smell you. They are chief servants who must report to me and to the party what is happening in their LGAs," Alia charged the Pointmen, urging them to work closely with all local stakeholders to establish camaraderie and friendship.
The appointed GLOs include Hon. Francis Ottah Agbo for Ado, Hon. Dr. Ojema Ojotu for Agatu, Emmanuel Yahaya Eigege for Apa, Hon. Alex Addingi for Buruku, Hon. Jir Joseph Ter for Gboko, and Dr. Hwande Terungwa Stephen for Guma. Other key appointments are Engr. Terhemba David Nongo for Gwer East, Prof. Eugene Aliegba for Gwer West, Hon. Prince Solomon Wombo for Katsina-Ala, and Hon. Barr. Sam Ode, mni for Otukpo.
Political Consolidation Ahead of 2027
Political observers view the twin events as a strategic consolidation of Governor Alia’s political structure.
With prominent defections and the establishment of the 23 Pointmen, the governor is seen as deepening his influence both within the APC and across Benue's political landscape. These developments are expected to further unify the party, strengthen grassroots engagement, and position the APC as the most organized and dominant political force in Benue ahead of the 2027 elections.