Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has directed every political appointee serving in his administration who plans to contest for any elective position in the 2027 general elections to step down from office on or before March 30, 2026. The announcement was made as part of efforts to maintain stability, continuity, and uninterrupted governance across the state. The instruction was disclosed in an official statement released on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula. According to the statement, the governor explained that the decision was taken to ensure that the current pace of development in Benue State is not slowed down by political activities or personal ambitions ahead of the upcoming elections. The statement further clarified that the governor believes early resignation by any appointee with political interest will allow for a smooth administrative transition. This, he noted, will help prevent unnecessary distractions that could interfere with the execution of government policies, programmes, and ongoing developmental projects across different parts of the state. Governor Alia emphasized that his administration remains fully committed to completing all ongoing projects and delivering on promises made to the people. He stressed that governance must remain the priority and that political ambitions should never be allowed to affect the progress already recorded under his leadership. He also called on citizens, community leaders, and stakeholders throughout the state to continue supporting his administration’s vision, which focuses on growth, transformation, and long-term development for Benue State. “I invite all people of good conscience to join hands with me so that together we can build a Benue State that attracts everyone and creates opportunities for all,” the governor stated while addressing supporters. While speaking on the achievements recorded so far, the governor pointed to several areas where progress has been made, including road construction, infrastructure upgrades, and improved welfare packages for civil servants working in the state. He explained that visible improvements across the state are clear signs that the government is fulfilling its mandate to the people. “When you see heavy construction equipment working on roads that were once in very bad condition, that is development. When you see civil servants going to work with satisfaction and returning home happily, that is also development,” he said. Governor Alia noted that his administration has already made significant progress but is determined to do more before the end of his tenure. According to him, the promise he made to the people of Benue State remains a binding commitment that guides every decision taken by his government. “I have started the work, I am halfway through, and I am even more determined to continue because that was the agreement I made with the people of Benue State. I cannot apologize to anyone for focusing on development because my responsibility is to improve the state,” he stated. He added that his loyalty is to the people who entrusted him with leadership, and his main concern remains how to improve their living conditions and change the narrative of the state for the better. “My covenant is with the people of Benue State. My focus is on how to make their lives better and how to rewrite the story of this state in a positive way. Nothing will distract me, and nobody will push me to abandon this mission,” the governor declared. Governor Alia concluded by reaffirming that his administration will remain focused on policies, programmes, and actions that directly impact the lives of citizens, adding that the government will continue to work towards sustainable development, economic growth, and improved welfare for all residents of Benue State.
