Nigerian Concord Newspaper
The deputy governor of Benue state, Barrister Sam Ode has described a statement credited to Senator Abba Moro over the just-concluded local government elections in the state as “uncomplimentary”
Also, the Director-General of Benue Rebirth Movement, Chief Terna Michael who reacted to the statement from the senator representing Benue South at the National Assembly said that the senator should focus on how he will eradicate thuggery which he introduced to Zone C before condemning a “free and fair” poll.
In a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Barrister Sam Ode said:
“Our attention has been drawn to the recent uncomplimentary remarks credited to the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, regarding the local government elections held in Benue State on the 5th of October, 2024. In light of the above it is important to set the record straight and highlight the remarkable achievements of the process, as well as the positive changes ushered in by the current administration under Governor Hyacinth Alia.
“Contrary to Senator Moro’s claims, the elections to the Local Government Councils were conducted transparently and in strict accordance with democratic principles and extant electoral laws. The conduct of these elections reflects the commitment to uphold the integrity of our democratic institutions, ensuring that the voices of the people were heard loud and clear.
“It is noteworthy that Senator Moro’s party has had its own history of hijacking local government elections in the past. It is surprising that he would expect the current administration, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, to engage in such undemocratic practices. The Alia administration is committed to a foundational transformation of governance in Benue State, moving away from past injustices towards a more honourable political culture.
“Furthermore, we call on Senator Moro to refrain from politicizing the divine calling of our esteemed Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia. Since assuming office, Governor Alia has made significant strides in various sectors, including agriculture, education, healthcare, as well as prompt payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities – demonstrating his dedication to the welfare of the people. Benue State residents across the board have voiced their satisfaction with the tangible improvements in agriculture, education and infrastructure, leaving no room for doubt regarding the governor’s integrity and commitment.
“Moreover, the people of Benue South Senatorial District will in no distant future, experience an unprecedented transformation, evidenced by the extensive wave of road projects recently initiated by the Alia administration. This revitalization of critical infrastructure will be felt in all Federal Constituencies within the senatorial district, ushering in a new era of accessibility and economic opportunities for the residents.
“The overwhelming support exhibited by the people of Benue South for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the recent local government elections underscores the electorate’s happiness with the direction of the state. Voters in Benue South have chosen quality candidates who truly represent their interests – moving away from a historical pattern where individuals installed loyalists to the detriment of the community’s welfare.
“In conclusion, the immediate past local government elections signal a new dawn for our democracy in Benue State. The Alia administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance has been well received by the people. We therefore, call on Senator Moro and his party to join us in this progressive journey towards a more democratic and prosperous Benue State, rather than resorting to undue rhetoric that seeks to undermine the positive strides we have collectively made in a short span of time”
In its own reaction, Benue Rebirth Movement in a statement obtained by Nigerian Concord Newspaper this morning said the senator lacks the moral standard to question the election, adding that all the points he (Moro) raised in the statement are far away from the truth.
According to the group, Moro was formerly a political thug and his new media attacks against Governor Alia’s administration is also a continuation of his unholy relationship with the people he once served as a thug.
“We will not allow Abba Moro to destroy or introduce thuggery in other parts of Benue state just as he did in Zone C. He is the brain behind the insecurity in that zone because he brought thugs there some years back.
“We are actually pleading with Moro to firstly find a way to curb thuggery which he personally introduced in Benue South before coming out to condemn a poll that went freely” the group said.