From Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Benue State government has noted that the recent demonstrations sponsored by unknown groups in Abuja are not genuine public sentiments, but a calculated attempt by some disgruntled elements to settle personal scores, with the aim of undermining the present administration and advance a malicious agenda.
Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula made this known while reacting to what he described as sponsored protests with the aim to misinform the public.
Kula, who gave the clarification Wednesday during a press conference held at the Government House, Makurdi, described such actions as orchestrated campaigns sponsored to undermine government.
He assured Benue people that Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration would always remain focused and committed to delivering the dividends of democracy.
Kula noted with dismay that the protesters were driven by a desperate desire to paint Benue State in the worst possible light with the aim of forcing the president to declare a state of emergency.
He insisted that the misguided notion stemmed from a deep-seated aversion to positive change, against their campaign for a return to a discredited status quo whose ultimate goal is to create an environment of chaos and instability to allow them exploit the situation for their selfish interest.
The chief press secretary expressed worry over alleged attempts to weaponise the legal profession in the campaign of deceit, lamenting that government had witnessed the spectacle of ex-convicts paraded at press conferences, while individuals who have nothing to do with the law serve as lawyers, as well as unregistered organisations submitting petitions filled with lies, levelling offensive accusations to the National Assembly.
According to Kula, such actions do not only undermine the integrity of the legal profession, but also demonstrate the depth to which the individuals are willing to sink into, in their pursuit for personal vendetta, urging the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, to take a swift and decisive action to address such instances of impersonation and professional misconduct.
He stated that while the issue of insecurity is a national concern, Governor Alia is taking proactive steps to curtail the activities of armed herders, promising that the state government would remain committed in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.
He called on the media to exercise due diligence in reporting matters, urging journalists to avoid amplifying voices that seek to spread misinformation and sow seeds of discord.
