By

Felly Mammah

Those who oppose the good works of Governor Hyacinth Alia are likely to oppose progress elsewhere. In the Bible, Job rebuked his wife when she suggested he curse God during his trials. He reminded her that just as we accept blessings, we must also endure challenges. Similarly, Governor Alia is being criticized for confronting herdsmen invading Benue State, while his commendable achievements in under two years are largely overlooked.

Every successful leader faces opposition. Those calling for his resignation due to insecurity in some local government areas ignore the fact that division will only lead to collective failure. Governor Alia, a priest of the Most High, is not a magician. His mission is to restore a broken system he inherited. Just as the Israelites initially misunderstood Moses’ divine purpose in delivering them from Egyptian bondage, some Benue citizens are failing to see the bigger picture.

Governor Alia’s spiritual insight, integrity, and sense of order have driven his early efforts to sanitize the state. He prioritized life-saving infrastructure—rehabilitating roads, public buildings, and the Government House. These projects, visible and impactful, have been appreciated by many, despite his short time in office and limited political experience.

It’s clear he anticipated resistance from political “godfathers” who previously monopolized state resources. Alia quickly asserted control of his office, showing that he is determined to restore Benue’s lost glory and return it to its place as the “Food Basket of the Nation.” He is frequently present in the state, responding to the needs of his people and tackling entrenched challenges head-on.

His leadership mirrors that of former FCT Minister and Kaduna Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who faced criticism for stepping on toes in his quest to restore order. Similarly, current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike—widely known as “Mr. Project”—shares Alia’s commitment to infrastructure and inclusive development.

It should be remembered that during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, only northern governors largely supported the controversial open grazing policy. A few southern governors followed suit, seeking presidential protection to finish their terms. According to Nasarawa State Governor Alhaji Almakura, the migration of herdsmen into Benue is partly due to previous administrations’ agreements and the appeal of the River Benue’s calm environment.

If past governments failed to confront this issue, then now is the time for unity behind a leader who is boldly drawing the line between indigenous citizens and invaders. Benue’s people must open their eyes before it’s too late. This is a time to rally behind Governor Alia—not to weaken his stand.

Governor Alia is just one man in the midst of a battle and needs the unwavering support of his people. For those banking on his failure to claim political rewards, remember: those who try to pull him down will also target you. As Scripture teaches, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” No one should be willing to live as a slave under false authority, especially when we know that “the wisdom of man is foolishness before God,” and that “one with God is a majority.”

The Israelites spent 40 years in bondage before Moses finally led them to freedom. Likewise, Benue may not find liberation from extremist threats without sacrifice. But unity and strength in the face of adversity can deliver peace. Those of compassionate heart, within and beyond Benue, should support Governor Alia’s appeal for the federal government to establish Mobile Police posts along the volatile Taraba, Nasarawa, and Cameroon borders.

In less than two years, Governor Alia has overseen the construction of new roads, a flyover bridge, the renovation of stadiums, provision of mass transit vehicles, and has transformed the civil service. Salaries are now paid before the end of each month, arrears have been cleared, and World Bank projects attracted—all without borrowing a single naira for capital development.

A profit-sharing formula can only be productive when it serves both good governance and administrative success. Governor Alia, a newcomer to politics but not to leadership, deserves time and patience to fulfill his campaign promises. It would be a grave mistake to allow political chaos similar to that in Rivers State to unfold in Benue, or to let the state be branded negatively on the global stage.

Governor Alia is not omnipresent, nor is he clairvoyant. He needs vigilant and responsible citizens, especially during nighttime when danger often lurks. Let us set aside distractions and support him in building a secure, prosperous Benue.