BENUE GOVERNMENT RESPONDS TO KWANKWASO’S COMMENTS ON ALIA

The Benue State Government has criticised former Kano State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, over his comments on the political disagreement involving Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alia, described Kwankwaso’s remarks as unwarranted and urged him to focus on political issues in Kano State.

Kwankwaso had criticised Alia over the recent disruption of Peter Obi’s visit to Benue, describing the incident as unfortunate and unnecessary. He also commented on the relationship between Alia and Akume.

Kula said the Benue Government considered the comments inappropriate and maintained that Alia was elected by the people of the state.

The dispute followed the September 8 obstruction of Obi’s convoy in Makurdi while he was travelling to Yelwata. The former Anambra State governor said he was in Benue to meet families affected by the 2025 attacks.

The state government denied involvement in the incident and said Obi did not properly notify it of his visit. However, the police confirmed that they had been informed and had deployed personnel for security.

Kula also urged Kwankwaso to respect Benue’s political process and allow residents to assess their government without external interference.