New Benue Development Agenda Criticizes Governor Alia’s First Six Months

The New Benue Development Agenda (NBDA) has voiced concerns over Governor Hyacinth Alia’s initial six months in office, deeming it the most arduous period for the state since the advent of democracy in 1999.

According to NBDA, Governor Alia is facing allegations of inadequate preparedness for governance and a lack of a clear development blueprint for the state.

In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Tersoo Hwande, the group expressed disappointment, labeling the priest-turned-politician as the most lackluster governor in the state’s history.

The NBDA’s evaluation suggests that Governor Alia has fallen short of expectations, engaging in unnecessary conflicts with critics, stakeholders, and party members instead of fulfilling campaign promises.

Hwande highlighted concerns about the governor’s perceived arrogance, ineptitude, pride, and all-knowing attitude, asserting that these qualities have set Benue State back by over two decades, resulting in increased hunger and hardship.

Expressing regret over the absence of tangible projects, the NBDA cited failed promises, lopsided appointments, and marginalization as the only visible outcomes of Alia’s leadership.

Advocating for citizen engagement, the group called on Governor Alia to prioritize discussions with citizens and stakeholders, possibly through town hall meetings.

The NBDA urged the governor to set aside his purported over-inflated ego and acknowledge mistakes in appointments, contract awards, and general conduct.

The group’s statement reflected initial optimism surrounding Governor Alia’s election, expressing disappointment in the trajectory of his administration. It read, “Governor Alia’s election was seen as a sigh of relief.

Being a Catholic priest, he was likened to the Biblical Moses who will take us to the Promised Land.

However, six months later, we are ashamed of the same man.”

While initially hoping for a steep learning curve, the NBDA now asserts that Alia is not ready to learn or accept his mistakes, criticizing him for becoming inaccessible and power-drunk.

The group also condemned the lopsided selection of advisers and commissioners, leading to resignations within three months of their inauguration.