Prominent Benue indigenes, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, former President of the Senate, David Mark, former governor, Samuel Ortom, and majority members of the National Assembly from Benue state stayed away from the grand finale of the Benue at 50 celebrations which held at the IBB square in Makurdi on Saturday.
The absence of these personalities underscores the deepening disagreement between the governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and prominent Benue sons and daughters, including those from his own political party, the All Progressives Congress, APC.
But President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, declared that Benue State has fulfilled the vision behind its creation and remains one of the strongest pillars of Nigeria’s development and the fertile heartland that continues to nourish the nation.
Chief Press Secretary to the Benue state governor, Tersoo Kulas in a statement on Sunday, quoted the president as saying that the state’s golden jubilee ceremony was a celebration of “resilience forged through adversity, unity strengthened by diversity, and progress sustained by the industry of its people”.
He observed that the creation of Benue State five decades ago reflected Nigeria’s commitment to justice, inclusion and balanced development, adding that history has vindicated the decision as the state continues to make remarkable contributions to national growth through its vast agricultural potential, rich cultural heritage and enterprising people.
The president paid tribute to the state’s founding fathers, especially the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, whose unwavering advocacy helped shape the destiny of the people, as well as past leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs and public servants whose quiet sacrifices have become the sturdy pillars upon which modern Benue stands.
The president commended Governor Alia for efforts at strengthening governance, improving infrastructure, promoting peace and expanding opportunities for the people, describing these as essential building blocks for sustainable development.
Responding, Governor Hyacinth Alia reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to build an economy that would stand firmly on the strength of its productivity rather than dependence on allocations from the Federation Account.
He called on Benue indigenes, particularly those in the diaspora, to return home and join hands in rebuilding the state, assuring them that his administration has laid a solid foundation through policies and programmes designed to unlock Benue’s vast economic potential.
He acknowledged that while insecurity, flooding and other challenges have tested the resolve of the people, they have never broken their spirit.
