2027: Gov Alia speaks on Tiv traditional ruler’s  2nd term endorsement

… As PDP warns Tiv traditional rulers stay clear of partisan politics 

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has thanked  the Supreme Council of the Tiv nation, under the Supreme Leader of the Tiv Nation, James Ayatse, Tor Tiv V, for endorsing him for a second term as Governor of Benue State.

Fr. Alia described the endorsement as “historic and unique gesture”, maintaining that for such pronouncement to come from the apex traditional authority of the Tiv Nation, is so humbling and deeply inspiring.

He added that the decision equally connotes an overwhelming vote of confidence in his leadership, integrity, and the transformative strides already being witnessed across the state under his administration.

The  governor in a statement by his chief press secretary, Tersoo Kula, Gov Alia sincerely appreciated the Ijir Tamen for acknowledging the tremendous work done so far in transforming Benue on the path of development, peace, and prosperity.

“The governor remains ever committed to his covenant with the people, viz, to rebuild, renew, and restore Benue with transparency, equity, and compassion.”

“This endorsement by the Tiv Supreme Council reaffirms the unity, wisdom, and foresight of our revered traditional institution.

” It is also a testament to the collective resolve of the Tiv people and indeed all Benue citizens to consolidate on the progress we are making and to ensure continuity of good governance.”

His Excellency assures the Tor Tiv and the entire Ijir Tamen I Tiv, saying, “this honour will only strengthen my dedication to serve with even greater zeal, humility, and accountability”.

He reiterates his pledge to continue promoting inclusivity, fairness, and sustainable development for every community across Benue State.

The government once again expresses heartfelt appreciation to the Ijir Tamen I Tiv, the five ruling houses of, Kwande, Jemgbagh, Lobi, Jechira, and Gwer, and the entire Tiv Nation for this show of love, trust and solidarity.

“Together, as the Almighty God continues to reign, we will forge ahead to make Benue a land of peace, progress, and shared prosperity”, the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, the main opposition People’s Democratic Party PDP in the State, has berated the Ijir Tamen, the Assembly of Tiv Traditional Rulers,for engaging in an open endorsement of governor Alia for a second term during their meeting in Gboko at the weekend.

The party noted that by openly endorsing a sitting governor, the revered stool has been drawn into the murky waters of politics, stating that such conduct, if left unchecked, risks defiling the sanctity of  the throne and eroding the trust, reverence, and moral weight that the Tiv traditional institution has commanded for generations.

It further said the development represents a grave departure from the sacred neutrality and moral authority expected of the traditional institution.

The Tor Tiv, by virtue of his exalted throne, is regarded as a father to all, not a political campaigner or partisan actor. His duty is to unite, guide, and preserve the dignity of the Tiv nation, not to take sides with aspirants. 

The party in a statement by its State Publicity Secretary, Tim Nyor, recalled that the Tor Tiv had, on a recent occasion in Kwande, made public remarks that clearly tilted towards partisanship. 

“Out of respect for his person and office, the PDP chose restraint and silence.

However, yesterday’s public endorsement goes beyond mere indiscretion and must not be ignored.

“Let it be clear: our concern is not born out of disrespect for the Tor Tiv or the traditional institution. On the contrary, it stems from a genuine desire to safeguard its honour, neutrality, and the collective heritage of the Tiv people.

The institution must never be reduced to a political instrument in the hands of the APC or any political organisation whatsoever.

“We are compelled to ask: By what process did the Ijir Tamen arrive at the decision to endorse Governor Alia? Has there ever been a precedent in Tiv history where the Ijir Tamen endorsed a sitting governor’s second term bid? 

“And if, as some allege, this endorsement was justified on the grounds of the Jechira bloc, we ask again: is Governor Alia the only son of Jechira deserving of such royal recognition?

“What transpired in Gboko yesterday is a moment of great sadness, shame, breach of tradition, distortion of values, and a signal that calls for sober reflection among our elders and custodians of culture.

“We therefore urge the Tor Tiv and the entire Ijir Tamen to stay away from partisanship and restore the impartiality and integrity of the traditional institution.

“The PDP remains committed to upholding the integrity of our traditional institutions, but we will not stand by while the royal fathers are turned into tools of political ambitions”, the statement said.