From Attah Ede, Makurdi

Benue State Deputy Governor, Dr Sam Ode has  dismissed uncomplimentary  comments credited to  the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro as published in the media in which he said the recently conducted local elections in the state were far from transparent and lacking in integrity.

In a statement by his Chief Secretary, Ior Ikeleve, the Deputy Governor said  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 Benue state government held Local government polls on October 5 in which the ruling-All Progressives Congress(APC) cleared all the 23 LG Chairmanship seats and the 276 Counselorship positions in the state

  While describing Moro’s comments as shallow and grossly deficient of historical reality, Ode said the  recently conducted polls reflected the commitment  of the Governor, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Alia to  uphold the integrity of democratic institutions by  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,” the statement read in part.

He said arrangements were already completed by the state government to roll out  infrastructural projects in Benue South Senatorial District that will in no distant future bring about  unprecedented transformation.

“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.

“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” the Deputy Governor further stated.