By Titus Atondu, Makurdi
Stakeholders and Political associates of the Benue state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia have commended the Governor for his performance in office within one year of his administration.
Speaking at the 58th birthday celebration of Governor Alia held at the New Banquet Hall in Government House Makurdi, Benue APC acting Chairman, Benjamin Omakolo described the Governor as a remarkable leader, extraordinary man whose journey in life has been that of passion for his people especially in improving their well being.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee led by the Deputy National Secretary, Barr. Festus Fuanter also eulogised the Governor as a man who is giving hope to Benue people in the area of infrastructural development.
“Do not be distracted. The party will stand by you for two reasons, generational and political so we can win the next election. Do not be afraid as nothing good comes easy. We shall stand by you and ensure you surmount every obstacle that comes your way,” he said.
Meanwhile, Senator Barnabas Gemade said that the Governor must have enemies to effectively deliver good governance to Benue people.
He said in politics where the governor has found himself, he cannot run away from political enemies if he wants to develop the State.
The former minister of works who was the Chairman of the occasion said, “In politics whatever you do or say people interpret it differently,” and added “that he must not be afraid of making enemies while bringing good governance to Benue people.”
”This business that you are in now is politics and governance, there are enemies you cannot run away from. People will be elevated and others brought down.
“If you are doing something bad, some will want you to do something good and vice versa but search your conscience and do good for the masses and you will have satisfaction,” Gemade stressed.
Responding, Governor Hyacinth Alia also revealed that the Benue State Government would soon build a flyover in Otukpo, the traditional headquarters of the Idoma nation.
Alia said his administration was determined to develop the state and appreciated the virtues of hard work and conscience of the poor masses.
He said the State was currently enjoying relative peace and most of the displaced farmers have returned to their farms adding that more effort would be made by his administration for more peace to be achieved.
The Governor again emphasised that security was not spoken but executed.