The political tension in Benue state occasioned by a prolonged feud amongst leaders in the appear to have been doused, following the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the state recently.
Over a week ago, the President was in Benue state to condole with the people, and to also have first hand information of the incessant killings and general insecurity in the state.
President Tinubu while in Benue, during a Town Hall meeting used the opportunity to task Governor Hyacinth Alia on peace, calling on him to ensure he brings together major political actors especially former Governors and other elder statesmen for discussions and a possible meeting with him at the villa.
Few days after the visit, pictures emerged of a meeting between the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume and the Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. The pictures were said to have been taken at Akume’s Maitama residence.
After the meeting, Governor Alia wrote on his official Facebook handle, “Today, I paid a surprise visit to Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), at his Maitama residence in Abuja.
“Ut was a warm and insightful interaction marked by mutual respect, unity, and deep reflection on both state and national issues, as well as a shared commitment to the progress of our dear state and nation”.
Again, yesterday, pictures of the Chief Judge of the state, Mr. Maurice Ikpambese visiting Governor Alia at Government House Makurdi emerged. In the picture also was the Speaker, Benue state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aondona Dajoh.
Recall that the Assembly had voted and directed Governor Hyacinth Alia to suspend the CJ of the state, a development that generated national discourse for weeks.
The Spokesman to Governor Alia, Sir Tersoo Kula who also published the pictures on his official Facebook and X handles wrote, “In democracy, the fulfilment of the promises of peace, security, unity and progress is what makes it an effective vehicle for nation-building.
“The leaders of the State have come to understand that the peace, unity and progress of the State is the ultimate goal at this time for the people to be served honestly in a dedicated manner.
“Benue shall be great again”.