A growing debate has emerged in Benue State over Governor Hyacinth Alia’s hire-purchase motorcycle programme, with many residents questioning whether it qualifies as genuine empowerment or merely a commercial business arrangement facilitated by the government.
While some Assembly members in other states are reportedly distributing free motorcycles and even cars to constituents, critics argue that Benue’s initiative requires beneficiaries to pay a higher cost through instalments, prompting questions about its true nature.
The scheme has continued to generate mixed reactions, particularly in Makurdi, where residents are divided on the classification of the programme.
“If I have to pay back the money, then it is not entirely free empowerment. It may help people, but let’s call it what it is — a hire-purchase scheme,” a commercial rider said.
Another resident noted: “There is nothing wrong with hire purchase, but government supporters should not present it as if the motorcycles were distributed free of charge.”
The discussion has sparked conversations across the state on the difference between receiving items as grants and acquiring them through repayment agreements. Many are calling for clearer communication on the terms of the programme and its overall benefit to the people.
