Olalere Fatiat Omowunmi (SIWES, Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic)
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, lauded the results of the recent local government elections, describing them as a testament to the state’s political development and commitment to democracy.
This followed the announcement by Richard Tombowua, Chairman of the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC), that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had won all 23 chairmanship and 276 councillorship positions across the state.
In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, Governor Alia thanked the people of Benue for their peaceful conduct and strong support for APC candidates. He emphasized that the peaceful elections reflected the state’s collective desire for unity and peace.
Governor Alia also highlighted that the overwhelming support for the APC demonstrated the people’s confidence in his administration’s leadership and vision for the future of Benue.
He reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on his promises of progress for the state and urged defeated candidates to collaborate with his administration to promote development.
However, Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP/Benue South) rejected the results, alleging irregularities in his district, including a lack of election materials and officials in many areas.
He criticized Governor Alia for failing to deliver a fair process as promised and vowed to challenge the outcome in court.
In contrast, BSIEC Chairman Tombowua insisted that the elections were free and fair, involving five parties: APC, PDP, Labour Party, Social Democratic Party, and All Progressives Grand Alliance.
Labour Party Chairman Ibrahim Idoko, also head of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, praised the peaceful conduct of the elections but said his party would review the results before deciding on a formal stance.
Governor Alia concluded by urging all political actors to work together for the progress of the state.
