From Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has called on those seeking elective offices and their supporters to shun violence, bitterness and inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He stressed the need for issue-based campaigns that promote democratic participation, peaceful coexistence and development.
The governor made the call at Tse Akpam, Mbade, Binev, Tombo, in Buruku Local Government Area during the burial ceremony of the late Cephas Rijam Nyinya Akpam.
Governor Alia expressed concern over the tendency of some political actors to resort to violence and hostility in the pursuit of their political ambitions, urging them to recognise that elections should be contests of ideas, policies and development alternatives rather than occasions for confrontation and division.
He maintained that political campaigns should be conducted with maturity, mutual respect and a sense of responsibility, adding that political differences must not be allowed to threaten the peace and security of communities.
The governor urged the people to reject violence and be guided by issues that directly affect their welfare and the future of the state when making political decisions.
He also called on the people of Tombo, Buruku and Benue State at large to assess the performance of his administration rather than be swayed by the political narratives and persuasions of other politicians.
Governor Alia solicited their continued support for his second-term ambition, saying another mandate would enable his administration to consolidate its achievements and sustain development efforts across the state.
He emphasised that continuity would provide an opportunity to build on the foundation laid during his first tenure and advance his administration’s development agenda for the benefit of the people of Benue State.
The governor also expressed condolences to the family, friends and associates of the late Cephas Rijam Nyinya Akpam, acknowledging the pain of their loss.
He prayed that God Almighty would grant the deceased eternal rest and give the bereaved family the grace, comfort and strength to bear the loss.