The results of the just concluded local government elections in Benue State have sparked criticism from opposition leaders.
Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP/Benue South), has rejected the outcome, calling it a “rape of democracy.”
Moro argued that reports from his senatorial district indicated that the election did not hold, with no election materials or BSIEC officials present in many areas.
Moro, in a statement through his Media Adviser, Mr. Emmanuel John, expressed disappointment with Governor Alia, accusing him of failing to uphold transparency and due process, contrary to his campaign promises.
“I expected the Governor, as a priest, to push for a paradigm shift by setting a standard for credible elections, rather than copying the flawed practices of the past,” Moro said.
He urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party to remain calm, assuring them that all legal avenues would be explored to challenge the election results in court.
In a reaction, 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.
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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. 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. Hyacinth 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. Benue PDP Elects State EXCO
