‘Early signs of impunity’ – PDP reacts as Alia calls for jamboree at his swearing-in

Benue State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it has observed with concern early signs that Governor-Elect, Hyacinth Alia, is inclined to a disregard for the rule of law and recklessness as indicated in a correspondence he personally signed inviting guests to his Swearing-in occasion on 29th May 2023.  Continue Full Reading>>>

The said correspondence is issued on a letter-headed paper titled “Government of Benue State, Office of the Governor-Elect”, and signed in the Red ink used by incumbent governors, and this raises for our great party a fundamental issue of regard for gazetted State Protocol.

Bemgba Iortyom, State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Benue State in a statement wondered if Alia is mandated yet to hold office in the Government of Benue State, when Governor Samuel Ortom is still the lawfully incumbent Governor of the state.  Continue Full Reading>>>

He said, “Can’t the Governor-Elect be patient to at least wait for 12 noon on 29th May 2023 when he would be lawfully recognized as having the place under the law in the Government of Benue State which he is “jumping the gun” to arrogate to himself illegally?

“Is Alia yet qualified to use the Red ink on correspondences, being it a privilege of authority he isn’t yet empowered to enjoy as he hasn’t been sworn into office as Governor?

“Furthermore, this letter from Alia is believed to have been sent out to groups and individuals widely, with the euphoria already rife in the air of an impending jamboree in Makurdi come Monday, 29th May 2023.

“In the concluding paragraphs of the invitation letter the Governor-Elect assures of full comfort and logistics provision for his coterie of guests to the occasion, and the tone is one of possible profligacy.

“Benue PDP cautions Governor-Elect Alia to rein in the urge to usurp to himself powers and privileges of the office of Governor until the time appointed under law.

“The Benue Governor-Elect must also be mindful that the profligate tone of his invitation is not lost on the people, and they will be watching to see the possible correlation between the event and his promise to run a frugal and disciplined administration.

“As the saying goes, “first cut is the deepest”.