Gov Alia Swears In 23 New Benue LG Chairmen

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has sworn in the newly elected local government chairmen across 23 local government areas in the state.

In his address, Alia urged the chairmen to maintain the highest standards of governance, free from bias or favouritism.

Naija News reports that the chairmen, elected on the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) platform, were announced as winners of the recently concluded local government elections held on Saturday.

Inaugurating the chairmen on Monday, Governor Alia said, “To you the newly elected chairmen, as you step into these roles, I charge you on a mission of utmost importance. Your duties would require you to work diligently, to provide strategic leadership, and to uphold the highest standards of governance without fear or favour.”

This responsibility, as articulated by the governor, necessitates integrity, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of accountability, transparency, fairness, and honesty in all interactions.

The governor also encouraged the newly appointed chairmen to enhance the developmental groundwork established by the previous caretaker committees.

He advised the chairmen to remain attentive to the needs of their constituents within their respective local government areas and to actively participate in constructive dialogue and collaboration with all stakeholders, thereby promoting an inclusive government aimed at securing a more prosperous future for everyone.

“I urge you to de-emphasize personal gains in leadership, and rather focus on bringing democratic deliverables closer to the people. Be reminded that leadership is about service and sacrifice and not personal glory,” the Governor said.

He added, “I must stress that no tier of government operates in isolation. Therefore, in light of the newly granted local government autonomy, I urge you to always collaborate with us at the state level to implement policies and programmes that benefit our rural communities.

“This is especially that we all share the same vision of re-writing the narrative of our beloved state and country in general.”

Governor Alia emphasized to the chairmen that the period for political manoeuvring had concluded.

He urged the newly elected chairmen to commence their duties with vigour and encouraged them to reach out to members of opposition parties by considering their ideas and constructive criticisms, which are essential for strengthening democracy and promoting good governance.