Benue State Governor Fr. Hyacinth Alia has called for a change of attitude and the sacrifices the people can make in the interest of development in the state.
He addressed thousands of supporters at the “Unity is Strength” Makurdi Government House Roundabout, who marched in solidarity with the governor despite the announced low-key celebration.
Backing the roundabout, with its giant sculpture of two firmly gripped hands—indicating strength in unity—the governor said: “I am inviting all of us, the good people in this state, that as we celebrate, let our conscience remind us that what unites us is greater than what divides us.”
He reminded the people that they have no other Benue other than Nigeria’s Food Basket State, while calling for attitudinal change and the sacrifices they can make for Benue and Nigeria.
The governor paid glowing tribute to former Senate President Ameh Ebute, Benue South, and other pro-democracy advocates who were imprisoned by the military junta yet remained resolute in giving Nigeria democracy, which is now in its 26th year.
He explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) played a critical role in the movement, and Sen Ebute sacrificed everything for Nigeria’s progress and unity before adding that “it’s not yet Uhuru.”
“We are still burying our loved ones who are killed unprovoked,” the governor said while assuring that he would not rest until peace was returned to the state, with the support of PBAT.
While commending traditional rulers and some religious leaders who are helping in the fight to restore peace, the governor noted that some “religious bandits ” are fanning the crisis with ” their rhetoric.”
“If you don’t have knowledge about Benue and Nigeria, shut up,” the governor warned.
On June 6, 2018, the government of former President Muhammadu Buhari declared June 12 as Democracy Day, in memory of Chief Bashorun MKO Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
The 1993 election was adjudged to be the freest, fairest, and most peaceful since Nigeria’s Independence.
