The Benue State Government has accused some individuals of being paid ₦50 million to run a propaganda campaign aimed at tarnishing the image of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The allegation was made by the Governor’s Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Chief Solomon Iorpev, in a rejoinder titled “Governance Is Not Gossip,” issued in response to an article by political commentator Mr. Celphas Iyorhen.
Iorpev expressed disappointment at what he described as mischievous and unsubstantiated allegations, stating that in a time when the people of Benue are demanding roads, jobs, security, healthcare, and other developmental projects, some individuals are trading in innuendos to justify their share of the ₦50 million propaganda fund.
He maintained that Governor Alia’s appointments, including those of women in strategic positions, were based on competence and in line with national policies promoting women’s participation in governance. Iorpev challenged critics claiming to have evidence of wrongdoing to present such facts to relevant law enforcement agencies instead of resorting to social media campaigns.
“Accountability requires facts, not fabrications. The people of Benue voted for performance and they are getting it, one project at a time,” he said.
The governor’s aide urged citizens to focus on governance and development rather than political distractions, emphasizing that the administration remains committed to delivering infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education, and security.
