By Ben Atonko
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State faces a crucial decision: whether to give Governor Hyacinth Alia a second term.
His tenure has been marked by controversies, insecurity, and governance shortcomings, making a strong case against his re-election.
Upon assuming office on May 29, 2023, Alia was poised for a fight. Thenceforth, his leadership has factionalized the party with allegations of unilateral decisions and marginalization of opponents.
His attempt to unilaterally remove the State APC Chairman, Mr Austin Agada and replace him with his loyalist, Mr Benjamin Omakolo sparked infighting for years.
Indeed, Alia is a political provocateur. His bad blood is not limited to the party as he has brought his penchant for causing disharmony and crisis into the state assembly, resulting in the suspension of the Speaker and 13 lawmakers opposing his agenda. Even amongst his appointees, there is no love lost.
In all this, he shows no sign of being a leader who would genuinely shepherd the flock peacefully and with love.
He flouted even the overall leader of the party, President Bola Tinubu. Tinubu, during a visit to Makurdi following the Yelewata massacre directed Alia to convene a stakeholders’ meeting to calm frayed nerves.
As I write, Alia has not given a hoot to that presidential command. Party faithful describe the rebuff of the president as the height of Alia’s insensitivity and disregard for the APC hierarchy. Yet he still wants to fly on the APC’s wings.
Benue State has witnessed over 2,600 deaths since Jan. 2023 with Alia’s response criticized as inadequate. His denial of genocide and alleged triggering of attacks on citizens have raised concerns.
This is why stones were hurled at him when he visited Zaki Biam after a Fulani terrorists attack. When he was there, instead of empathizing and consoling the people, he was rather provocative.
Now, Alia will face difficulty visiting many communities as his style of governance has been called into question.
In the area of jobs, Alia’s administration has faced allegations of contract irregularities, lack of transparency, and opacity.
The state’s development has stagnated, with poor infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Alia’s projects are not based on critical state needs.
He builds infrastructure just to impress women – the folks call it “adoo Kasev”. Most projects are uncompleted, causing daily headaches.
Given Alia’s poor performance, the APC should consider alternative candidates with proven track records. It should be a question of scorecard.
The party’s future and Benue State’s development depend on choosing a leader who can unite, secure, and develop the state.
Let it be clear to all. Alia is hell-bent on wrecking the APC ship and it is mind-boggling party bigwigs are not stopping him.
He is on his way out, but instead of bowing out gracefully, he is rocking the boat. The party leadership needs to take a hard look and act fast – for the sake of Benue State and the APC.
The recent APC state congress was a wake-up call. Two senators, eight Reps members, and over a half of the state assembly members ditched the governor for Agada whom they consider the authentic APC state chairman and his congress in Makurdi.
If winning elections is the goal, what is the point of endless clashes with elected party members and officials? What then is the import of holding a very key party activity with nearly all elected members staying away?
Given these concerns, the APC should carefully consider whether Alia is the right candidate to represent the party in 2027.
In fact, the party should ditch Alia for 2027. Party stakeholders and Benue State people are anxious.
The true lovers of the Food Basket state are willing and united for a seamless primary election come May. APC leadership should hearken to them.
Atonko wrote in Abuja.
