Voters Embrace Party's Vision for Progress

Makurdi, Benue State - October 6, 2024

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has claimed a sweeping victory in the Local Government Council elections held on Saturday, October 5, 2024. The results indicate overwhelming support for APC candidates across the state, further solidifying the party's influence in Benue.

Comrade Austin Agada, the APC State Chairman, hailed the victory as a reflection of the people's trust in the party's leadership and commitment to fostering progress and development in the state.

"This victory is for every resident of Benue who believes in progress, development, and good governance," Agada remarked, expressing gratitude for the broad-based support.

Following the elections, the APC called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to swiftly conduct the swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected Local Government Council Chairmen and councilors, emphasizing the need to quickly embark on rebuilding and strengthening the local government administration.

In his statement, Daniel Ihomun, the APC State Publicity Secretary, thanked the people of Benue for their unwavering support, highlighting the inclusive nature of the victory.

"The APC dedicates this victory to all Benue residents, regardless of their political affiliations. It is a triumph of unity and shared vision for a better future," Ihomun said.

Related Developments

- Governor Hyacinth Alia is expected to closely collaborate with the newly elected council leaders to accelerate development projects at the grassroots level.
- The APC's success in this election is seen as a major boost ahead of upcoming state and national elections.

Reaction

"This victory demonstrates our party's dedication to the people and their desire for transformative governance," said Comrade Austin Agada, APC State Chairman.

A resident from the state also voiced optimism: "We are eager to see the newly elected council leaders drive development in our communities.

The Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) has honored the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Arc. Sonny Echono, with the prestigious Legacy Award for Advancement and inducted him into the COEASU Hall of Fame.

This recognition highlights Arc. Echono's distinguished service and leadership in Nigeria's tertiary education sector, where he has been instrumental in driving transformative initiatives. As a committed public servant, he has played a pivotal role in fostering institutional growth through his exemplary stewardship of TETFund.

Arc. Echono has introduced innovative strategies aimed at enhancing tertiary education in Nigeria. His contributions have significantly advanced capacity building and infrastructure development across institutions, further demonstrating his unwavering dedication to improving the nation's education system.

By being inducted into the COEASU Hall of Fame, Arc. Echono joins an elite group of leaders who have left lasting impacts on Nigeria's education landscape.

COEASU, a trade union representing academic staff in Nigerian Colleges of Education, is committed to promoting the welfare and interests of its members, improving working conditions and education standards, and fostering cooperation within the academic community.

Through negotiations with government and institutional management, the union continues to advocate for the betterment of the education sector.

The Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) showcases Arc. Sonny Echono’s distinguished contributions to Nigeria’s tertiary education sector through its Legacy Award for Advancement and Hall of Fame induction.This recognition by COEASU stands as a testament to Arc. Echono's selfless service and commitment to elevating the standards of education in Nigeria.


*** https://smearbusters.com.ng/coeasu-honors-echono-with-legacy-award-inducts-into-hall-of-fame/

Alia’s Obsession with LG Funds: Root Cause of Benue APC War 

*May Seek Reconciliation After October 5th*

Governor Hyacinth Alia’s obsession with controlling local government funds is at the heart of the current Benue APC crisis. His refusal to allow local governments to operate autonomously has sparked serious internal conflicts within the party.

Alia’s tight grip on local funds, fueled by recent increases in allocations after fuel subsidy removal, has sidelined grassroots development. This political battle has not only paralyzed local administration but also disrupted development projects meant to uplift communities.

Alia was among the governors who challenged the federal government’s push for LG autonomy, a move that sought to free LGs from state interference and ensure financial independence. His refusal to relinquish control over LG funds has stunted local administration, hindering projects vital to the development of rural communities.

Several aspirants, who purchased nomination forms for over 5 million naira, feel betrayed after BSIEC replaced their names on the list to contest the 5th October 2024 local government election in the State.

Meanwhile, the Comrade Austin Agada-led APC State Working Committee has conducted primary elections for the upcoming local government elections. Political analysts speculate that courts may likely recognize Agada’s list as the authentic candidates for the APC. This presents another legal hurdle that threatens the October 5th elections.

Governor Alia’s political indiscipline, coupled with his desire to centralize power, has created chaos within the Benue APC. Observers have noted that his obsession with local government finances is the primary point of contention between him and party stakeholders. This control has not only ignited internal disputes but has also undermined the very essence of local governance, as elected officials are being sidelined in favor of political appointees loyal to the governor.

To further complicate matters, Alia has often deployed subterfuge, feigning political victimization to gain sympathy from the Villa. He portrays himself as a political orphan, using this narrative to plead with national stakeholders to overlook his erratic political behavior. By framing himself as a victim of inexperienced party officials, he hopes to secure forgiveness for his political excesses.

He employed this strategy after staging a political coup during the Benue APC Assembly leadership election, and again during the nomination of the State cabinet and LG Caretaker Committee. This tactic, though hackneyed, has helped him dodge accountability while consolidating control over local government funds.

Critics have called on Governor Alia to remove his hands from local government administration. By doing so, they argue, grassroots development could thrive and local governments could manage their resources more effectively.

They further opined that governors should focus on statewide issues and allow local governments to function as independent units. Local government elections should be conducted by INEC to ensure credibility and transparency, especially in cases where the state electoral body is seen as compromised.

Despite the political upheaval, there are expectations that Alia may seek reconciliation after October 5th. His subterfuge, combined with his capacity to feign political innocence to secure forgiveness for his political misdemeanors.

However, as the courts weigh in on the litigations and the October 5th elections approach, the future of the Benue APC remains in question; whether Governor Alia will reconcile the Benue APC and allow democracy to prevail at the grassroots level, or will his obsession with controlling LG funds lead to further crises? His next moves will determine the future of grassroots governance and the political integrity of the APC in Benue State.

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State faces growing political turmoil as multiple court cases challenge the October 5th local government elections. The legal battles have raised doubts about the legitimacy of the upcoming polls, increasing tension within the state.

Aspirants who paid over 5 million naira for nomination forms feel cheated after being excluded from the process. Initially approved candidates found their names replaced after submission to the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC). This has sparked protests and accusations of manipulation by Alia's allies to sideline opposition.

Further compounding the issue is Alia’s failed attempt to dissolve the Austin Agada-led APC State Working Committee. The move has faced strong resistance and legal challenges, worsening the internal strife within the party.

As the October 5th election approaches, the number of court cases and allegations of unfair practices threatens to derail the process. Critics believe Alia is trying to consolidate power, but mounting opposition from party members and excluded aspirants suggests otherwise.

With the fate of the elections uncertain, Governor Alia's leadership is under intense scrutiny. His political survival may depend on how he navigates these growing challenges.