Benue APC Counters PDP, Defends Alia’s Performance in Office
The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed recent criticisms by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against Governor Hyacinth Alia, insisting that the opposition lacks the moral authority to question the administration’s performance given its record while in power.
In a statement issued on Friday by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Benedict Yawe, the APC accused the PDP of recycling old allegations instead of offering constructive criticism, arguing that Governor Alia’s administration has recorded measurable achievements despite inheriting significant economic and administrative challenges.
The ruling party said the PDP left behind a state burdened by huge debts, abandoned projects, salary and pension arrears, deteriorating infrastructure and weakened public institutions.
According to the APC, Governor Alia’s recent engagement with members of the Presidential Press Corps at the Presidential Villa was an opportunity to present the administration’s achievements and the challenges inherited on assumption of office, contrary to the PDP’s claim that it was a publicity exercise.
On security, the party maintained that the governor had never claimed to have completely eradicated insecurity but had consistently acknowledged the challenge while working closely with the Federal Government, security agencies, traditional rulers and local communities to restore peace across affected areas.
The statement noted that although security concerns remain in parts of the state, several communities have experienced improved stability through coordinated interventions.
The APC also defended the administration’s record on workers’ welfare, stating that regular salary payments have been restored, pension obligations are being settled in phases and inherited salary arrears are receiving attention within available resources.
It further highlighted ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects, the recruitment of thousands of teachers, improvements in school infrastructure, revitalisation of healthcare facilities, and expanded agricultural support programmes aimed at boosting food production and improving rural livelihoods.
The party added that the Alia administration is implementing reforms to strengthen the economy, attract investment, create jobs and ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy in line with constitutional provisions.
The APC argued that Governor Alia inherited enormous financial liabilities and institutional challenges but had focused on rebuilding governance structures rather than making excuses.
It urged the PDP to embrace responsible opposition by engaging in fact-based and constructive criticism instead of what it described as “recycled accusations and political sensationalism.”
The party reaffirmed Governor Alia’s commitment to strengthening security, expanding infrastructure, improving public service delivery, promoting agriculture, stimulating economic growth and delivering sustainable development for the people of Benue State.
It added that the administration would remain focused on fulfilling its mandate despite political attacks, stressing that history would judge governments by their performance and impact on citizens rather than political rhetoric.
