Benue govt. speaks on viral video, berates opposition for attempt to undermine Gov. Alia’s administration

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

The Benue State government has said that the viral video circulating in the media condemning last Saturday’s Local government polls in the State is nothing more than an ‘unfortunate’ attempt by desperate individuals to score cheap political points.

Recall that a video had circulated virally on the social media showing how some youths were thumb printing ballot papers during last Saturday local government councils election Benue State.

The state government through the press secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula, made this known during a press conference held at the Government House, Makurdi, on Thursday.

The video became an issue for discourse at Arise TV ‘What is trending’ on the Morning Show program which caught the ire of the State government.

He said upon thorough review, it is clear that the video is an obvious stage-managed drama, orchestrated by those who seek to undermine the good governance of Fr. Alia.

Said he, “we found no credible evidence linking this fabricated content to the governor or his administration.

“Prior to the elections, credible sources informed us of underhand plans by some opposition elements to discredit the electoral process. This video appears to be one of their tactics to cast a shadow over what was a transparent and violence-free election.

“It is important to note that this election marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time in many years that voters in Benue had access to ballot papers for local government elections. 

“For the first time in Benue state, since the final resurgence of democracy in Nigeria, BSIEC recruited and meticulously trained all adhoc staff for the polls. There was also massive deployment of adhoc staff and sensitive and nonsensitive materials distributed in the full glare of the media and political party agents.

“We urge journalists and media outlets, particularly Arise TV, which aired the misleading video and accompanying commentary to uphold the ethics of their profession. 

“As the light of society, it is crucial to cross-check facts and avoid being swayed by mere spectacle before going public.

“We remain committed to transparency and accountability in governance and will not be deterred by attempts to mislead the public” he stressed..