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Alia: The Making of a Statesman

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By Daniel Gbabo Anyam

Before now, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia was widely known and respected across Benue State as a Catholic priest whose ministry touched lives in profound ways. His name carried weight not merely within church circles but among ordinary citizens who saw in him a compassionate leader.

His pastoral assignments exposed him to the daily struggles of the people, and this close contact with communities shaped his understanding of governance long before his foray into partisan politics.

Through his sermons and humanitarian efforts, he gradually emerged as a moral authority whose voice commanded respect beyond religious boundaries.

Famed for his healing masses which attracted huge crowds, Father Alia became a symbol of hope to the downtrodden.

The afflicted, the vulnerable, and those burdened by life’s challenges found solace in his words and prayers. Many testified to spiritual and emotional upliftment, and this built an enduring bond between him and the masses. Over time, the trust he earned was not just spiritual but social, as people began to see him as someone who genuinely cared for their welfare and dignity.

As a priest, he emphasized compassion, humility, and accountability, qualities that later defined his political persona. He often preached about justice, fairness, and service, values that resonated strongly with citizens who yearned for ethical leadership. His ability to connect with people from across social strata demonstrated emotional intelligence and empathy, traits essential for statesmanship. This moral grounding gave him a unique advantage as he transitioned from the pulpit to public office.

For many years, he remained engrossed in the ministry and hardly meddled in politics. His focus was primarily spiritual and humanitarian, making his eventual entry into politics both surprising and intriguing. To observers, nothing suggested that the Catholic priest would one day seek elective office. Yet, beneath the surface, his exposure to social challenges had honed him for leadership beyond the church.

When he declared his intention to vie for the governorship of Benue state, some were surprised, others were skeptical, but many welcomed the development as a breath of fresh air. Unlike conventional politicians, he did not need to build credibility from scratch. The trust he had cultivated over years of service in the Lord’s vineyard had already created a reservoir of goodwill among the populace.
With the “Yes Father” slogan, his electioneering campaign gained instant traction. The slogan became more than a political catchphrase; it symbolized continuity of trust and faith in his leadership. His campaign galvanized communities and drew massive grassroots support. Youths, women, and elders rallied behind him, seeing in him a leader who understood their struggles and aspirations.

The sheer momentum of his campaign catapulted his party, which was then the opposition in the state, to a resounding victory in the 2023 general elections. His emergence marked a turning point in Benue’s political landscape. Many voters saw his victory as a triumph of integrity over entrenched political interests. His success demonstrated the power of grassroots mobilization and the appeal of a candidate perceived as sincere and selfless.

On May 29, 2023, he was sworn in as the sixth democratically elected governor of Benue State. The transition from priest to governor was historic and symbolic. It represented not only personal achievement but also the people’s desire for a new leadership style anchored on moral values. From that moment, Governor Alia stepped into national limelight, attracting attention from across Nigeria.

Upon assumption of office, he inherited significant challenges, including unemployment, unpaid salary arrears, and economic stagnation as a result of fiscal indiscipline. These issues demanded bold, surgical and innovative solutions. His response reflected decisiveness and strategic thinking, qualities associated with emerging statesmen. He prioritized stabilizing the workforce and restoring confidence in government institutions.

One of his early actions was initiating employment opportunities across multiple sectors. Thousands of youths were recruited into the civil service and government agencies. This move significantly reduced unemployment and restored hope among young people. It also demonstrated his belief in empowering citizens as a pathway to sustainable development.
Institutions such as the University Teaching Hospital, SUBEB, Benue Links, SEMA, and BIPC became channels for job creation. Through these agencies, many individuals found gainful employment. His administration’s focus on expanding opportunities highlighted his commitment to inclusive governance and human capital development.

The revitalization of industries under BIPC further boosted economic activity. By supporting local production and strengthening state-owned enterprises, he encouraged self-reliance. These initiatives not only created jobs but also stimulated local economies. His economic approach reflected long-term planning rather than short-term political gains.

In the area of infrastructure, Governor Alia embarked on road construction, rehabilitation of public facilities, and urban renewal projects. Communities long neglected began to witness development. Improved infrastructure enhanced mobility, commerce, and social interaction. This visible progress strengthened public confidence in his leadership.

His leadership style has been characterized by accessibility and grassroots engagement. He regularly interacts with citizens and listens to their concerns. This participatory approach fosters inclusion and strengthens democracy. It also reinforces his image as a leader who governs with the people, not above them.

Transparency and accountability have remained central to his administration. He emphasizes prudent financial management and responsible governance. This approach has helped rebuild trust in public institutions. By promoting accountability, he is gradually reshaping governance culture in the state.

Despite resistance from some members of the old political order, his popularity has not waned. Many citizens continue to support him because of his performance-driven leadership. His ability to maintain grassroots support reflects political maturity and resilience. These qualities are essential for statesmanship.

The governor has strategically engandered youth participation at the highest levels of leadership. The young men and women of Benue are now deciding the future of their generation. Importantly, he is even preparing them for projection into the national grid of power play and decision making. This is also mirrored as an affront to the old political order.

Barely three years in office, his influence has extended beyond the state. Governor Alia has begun to play roles at the national level. His participation in national political activities underscores his growing stature. He is increasingly seen as a voice representing progressive governance.

His selection among those who were entrusted to organize the APC convention in Abuja is a mark of his rising influence. This responsibility placed him among leaders shaping national political direction. It also signaled recognition of his leadership qualities beyond his home state.

At the convention, he demonstrated coordination and consensus-building abilities. He provided leadership not only for his state delegation but also for broader political stakeholders. His calm disposition and consultative approach earned him respect. Such attributes are hallmarks of emerging statesmen.

Beyond politics, his personal qualities continue to define his leadership. Discipline, and moral grounding remain evident in his decisions. He projects a calm demeanor even in challenging situations. These traits inspire confidence in the people.

His commitment to youth empowerment and social welfare reflects a people-centered governance. By investing in education, employment, and social programs, he is laying the foundations for sustainable growth. His policies aim to uplift citizens and reduce inequality.

Gradually but surely, the priest is unfolding into a statesman. His journey from a spiritual shepherd to political leader illustrates the power of trust, integrity, and service. With continued dedication to inclusive governance, his future holds even greater promise for Benue State and the nation.

Gbabo Anyam is Principal Private Assistant (PPA) to the Governor of Benue State on Due Process Government House Administration.

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Plateau PDP Cautions Members Against Obtaining Nomination Forms From Pro-Wike Faction

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By Mike Odiakose, Abuja

As Nigerians await the verdict of the Supreme Court on the leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Plateau State chapter of the party has caution it’s members against obtaining primary election nomination from the faction loyal to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

In an advisory obtained by the Daily Asset Newspaper, the Plateau PDP declared that loyalists of the FCT Minister parading as leaders of the party have already been expelled and their expulsion validated by the High Court and Court of Appeal.

In the advisory issued by Dr Choji Felix Dalyop, State Publicity Secretary, the chapter maintained that any nomination forms issued or signed by Senator Anyanwu or under the authority of Abdulrahman Mohammed lack legal standing.

Part of the statement reads: “Our great party under the strategic leadership of Miskoom Raymond Dabo, hereby issues a formal advisory grounded in extant judicial pronouncements regarding the purported sale of nomination forms for the 2027, general elections led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, with Senator Samuel Anyanwu acting as National Secretary.

“Pursuant to binding judicial determinations, this advisory is issued, including:- The judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on 9th March, 2026, and the judgment of the FCT High Court delivered on 12th January, 2026, both of which affirm the suspension and subsequent expulsion of Senator Samuel Anyanwu from the Peoples Democratic Party.

“From a legal standpoint, these rulings have two critical implications: Loss of Capacity: Senator Anyanwu, having been validly expelled, lacks the legal competence to act in any official capacity on behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party.

“Derivative Invalidity: All actions predicated on his authority, including the recognition of Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman, and the constitution of a parallel National Working Committee, are legally defective.

“Consequently, the Abuja Convention of 29th March, 2026, convened under this disputed authority, is rendered void ab initio, as it derives from an invalid institutional foundation.

“Furthermore, the issuance of a Form 48 notice by the FCT High Court underscores ongoing judicial scrutiny, and reinforces the binding nature of earlier rulings, particularly regarding compliance by affected parties.

“The principle of law remains unequivocal: No valid structure can emerge from an invalid origin.

“Therefore, any nomination forms issued or signed by Senator Anyanwu or under the authority of Abdulrahman Mohammed lack legal standing.

“Implications for Aspirants: Non recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC);

“Exposure to pre election litigation leading to disqualification;

“Post election nullification risks analogous to established judicial precedents.

“The PDP Plateau State, chapter strongly advises all aspirants, and stakeholders to exercise due diligence, and avoid engagement with any processes that are unstable with the vision, and mission of the founding fathers of our great party, which to a great extent are fundamentally inconsistent with the law.”
End

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Soludo’s 16.4km Road Project Ends Years of Suffering, Opens Up Anambra Communities

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By Laide Akinboade Abuja

Vice President of Boardwalk Group and Abuja-based real estate developer Chief Obiageli Okwubanego, on Wednesday, commended the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, for completing the 16.4-kilometre Nawfija–Ajali–Ufuma–Ogbunka Road in Orumba South Local Government Area.

Sh gave the commendation while speaking with journalists in Abuja.

She said residents in that area testified that the project has transformed transportation, agriculture and economic activities across the axis.

Okwubanego described the road project as a major infrastructure breakthrough that has drastically reduced travel time and eased movement for motorists and residents within the affected communities.

She recalled that the appeal for the road was first made in 2019 when Soludo attended the funeral mass of her mother, Chief Mrs. Agnes Igwenagu Okeke.

According to her, the deplorable state of the road at the time made movement extremely difficult for mourners and guests attending the burial ceremony.
“When Professor Soludo later declared interest in contesting for governor, I went back to my people and urged them to support him with the assurance that the road would be done. I also appealed to him to extend the road project to Ogbunka, my mother’s hometown,” she said.

She noted that the newly completed road has reduced travel time by about two hours and now serves as an alternative route to the traffic-prone Umunze Roundabout.

Travellers heading towards Umuaku in Abia State, as well as Okigwe and Ndi-Iziogu areas of Imo State, now use the route to avoid traffic congestion.

“For Christmas, Easter, August meetings, marriages and other celebrations, people can now travel home with ease and in large numbers,” she stated.
Okwubanego described the project as part of Soludo’s broader infrastructure and economic transformation agenda across Anambra State.

According to her, the road has enhanced the movement of goods and services within the communities and improved economic activities in the area.
“Governor Soludo’s solution agenda has positively impacted our communities and brought remarkable transformation to the entire Orumba South Local Government Area,” she said.

She further noted that residents of Nawfija community had never experienced a tarred road before the intervention of the Soludo administration.

“Since I started visiting Nawfija community years ago, the residents had never enjoyed a tarred road. Soludo, through compassionate and selfless leadership, has now provided the people with their first properly constructed road,” she added.

Highlighting the economic importance of the project, Okwubanego said the road has significantly boosted agricultural activities in the area, especially palm oil production.

She explained that the adjoining communities are predominantly farming settlements responsible for a substantial share of palm oil production in Orumba South Local Government Area.

“The famous Onuoigbo palm plantation, which spans over 20 hectares, is located along this road corridor in Nawfija, and the improved road network will greatly support the movement of farm produce,” she explained.

On tourism potential, she said the road would also increase access to the popular Ozi Stream, known for fishing and irrigation activities, thereby attracting more visitors and commercial activities.

“With easier access to the famous Ozi Stream, human and business activities in the area will rise significantly,” she noted.
Okwubanego also reaffirmed her emotional attachment to Nawfija community, saying her passion for the people inspired her continuous commitment to their welfare and development.

“My dear Nawfija community means so much to me, which is why I personally pleaded with His Excellency to give us this road. My passion for the community will always push me to look out for their welfare,” she said.

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Ekiti Church Attack: CAN Demands Action Over Killing, Abduction of Worshippers

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By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Wednesday, condemned
the attack on a church gathering in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, where gunmen reportedly killed a Pastor and abducted several worshippers during an open-air crusade.

This was stated in a statement issued by
President, CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in Abuja.

The Christian body demanded for immediate arrest and prosecution of the culprits and rescue of those kidnapped.

He described this latest attack as a brutal assault on shared humanity and the sanctity of life.

And it is deeply disturbing and unacceptable.

He mourned with the family of the slain Pastor and stand in full solidarity with the victims and the entire Christian community in Ekiti State

The statement reads, “We condemn this heinous act in the strongest possible terms.

People had gathered peacefully to worship God, and they were met with violence. This is not just an attack on a church; it is a brutal assault on our shared humanity and the sanctity of life.

“We mourn with the family of the slain Pastor and stand in full solidarity with the victims and the entire Christian community in Ekiti State. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been taken, and we call for their immediate and safe release.

“This latest tragedy comes amid a disturbing pattern of attacks. Only recently, gunmen struck communities in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting residents including clergy, their families, and other community members. These repeated incidents underscore a deepening security crisis that can no longer be ignored.

“This attack further heightens concerns about the safety of lives and the protection of communities. No one should have to live in fear, and no place of worship must ever become a hunting ground for criminals.

“We must be unequivocal: the protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of government. We call on the authorities and security agencies to act swiftly, decisively, and transparently. Those responsible for this atrocity must be apprehended and brought to justice without delay. Every necessary effort must be made to rescue those abducted unharmed.

“We also urge the government to immediately strengthen security presence, especially in vulnerable and rural communities, and to deploy proactive intelligence measures to prevent further attacks”.

He noted, “At the same time, we must all speak out firmly. The killing of a Pastor and the abduction of worshippers gathered to commune with their Creator is deeply troubling. It reflects a grave disregard for life, for faith, and for the moral fabric of our society.

“We have a duty to communicate these concerns clearly, firmly, and without equivocation to the appropriate authorities. Nigeria must not normalise the killing of worshippers or the abduction of innocent citizens in places of refuge.

“May God comfort the bereaved, protect those in captivity, and restore peace and security to our land”.

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