From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Benue State Government has debunked as ‘fictitious’ and ‘malicious’ report alleging that Governor Hyacinth Alia has expended over 40 billion naira since assumption of office.
The online publication also accused the Governor of spending over two (2) billion naira for purchase of vehicles for himself, Assembly members, commissioners and other aides when he had promised to cut cost of governance.
Reacting to the publication at a press conference held at Trust Resort in Makurdi on Monday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Kula Tersoo Kula said they woke to a disturbing news, alleging that the governor is reckless in spending of the State resources.
According to him,”this is the most mischevoous news we have heard. The reporter is not in touch with economic realities of our time. Alia’s administration took off from ground zero he did not meet any functional vehicle as he continued driving the same vehicle he used during his campaigns.
“He did this to minimize cost so as to take care of other pressing issues. Two (2) billion naira is not adequate for purchase of vehicles for Governor, Assembly members, commissioners and Special Advisers. There are 32 members of the Assembly including the principal officers who are entitled to two (2)vehicles, 17 commissioners, several special Advisers and Principal Special Assistants.
“There are 16 roads ongoing, solar streets lights are functional, reconstruction of the State Assembly which has gone beyond 80 percent, procurement of fertilizers subsidized by 50 percent.
“The governor has a pact and a covenant with the people; pensions are paid up to date as well as salaries. You must not blackmail to get attention.”Convener and National Coordinator of the group, Emmanuel Pathfinder, told journalists yesterday in Abuja, that those engineering the sinister move were ignorant of the contributions of Kyari in the petroleum sector.
Pathfinder called on President Bola Tinubu to ignore the agitations, adding that Kyari was on the right path of refashioning the sector to be at par with international best practices.
“Today, we are holding this World Press briefing at the instance of the evil, unpatriotic and destructive calls for the change of guards in the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC Limited.
“Rising from our National Congress in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital, the Coalition of Northern and Southern Youth Leaders Forum of Nigeria have resolved to support the reforms and good work that is taking place in the New NNPC Limited led by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. MELE KYARI.
“We have seen his giant strides of change and development. We have seen his fight against Oil thieves.
“We have seen his determination to uproot the evil cabal that is bleeding the nation to death.
“We stand by him.We believe in his capacity. We trust in his ability.
We can see his genuine patriotism.
We want to join hands with him to succeed in his good work.”
