Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
In a bombshell press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) House in Makurdi, Hon. (Amb.) Terhemen Tarzoor, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia and one-time Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, has accused opposition politicians of orchestrating a N2 billion scheme aimed at undermining Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s administration. The alleged plot, set to intensify from December 1, 2025, involves a multi-pronged attack including smear campaigns, false publications, frivolous court cases, and incitement of violent protests.
Tarzoor described the conspirators as “agents of darkness” and “politicians of Benue extraction” who have chosen opposition to the state’s progress. He claimed credible intelligence revealed that two elected members of the National Assembly have been designated as spokespersons for this group, tasked with disseminating falsehoods to portray the governor negatively before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the national APC leadership. The plan reportedly includes accusations of financial impropriety, sabotage of key projects like the Makurdi and Gboko underpasses, and mobilization of youths for anti-Alia demonstrations.
The former ambassador alleged that the plotters have already contacted media organizations in Lagos and Abuja to amplify negative narratives and plan to flood anti-graft agencies with petitions while instituting multiple lawsuits to distract government officials. He linked these efforts to recent rumors falsely claiming Governor Alia was critically ill and flown unconscious overseas for treatment, when in reality, the governor was in Abuja conducting strategic meetings to attract development to Benue.
Tarzoor expressed unwavering confidence in Governor Alia’s focus, stating that previous attempts to discredit or impeach him have failed and this one will too. He praised Alia’s determination to deliver democratic dividends, predicting overwhelming support for both the governor and President Tinubu in the 2027 elections. “There is indeed no vacancy in Aso Rock as well as in the Benue Government House,” he declared.
Addressing his relationship with Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and alignment with the governor, Tarzoor affirmed full support, calling Alia “the father of the state” who deserves backing for his good work. When pressed to name the alleged plotters or confirm contributions to the N2 billion fund, he remained coy, saying details of those in custody of the funds would be exposed in due time to bring them before the court of public opinion as “enemies of the people of Benue State.”
Tarzoor dismissed suggestions that his defense of Alia is politically motivated by ambitions to contest elective office, insisting his extensive experience—including roles as Majority Whip, Majority Leader, Speaker, gubernatorial candidate, and ambassador—qualifies him to comment on governance. As President Tinubu’s campaign coordinator in Benue, he denied knowledge of any Tinubu campaign office in Makurdi being demolished, calling reports of such an incident news to him.
Earlier in the event, the Chairman of the NUJ Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, urged political actors to prioritize unity and development ahead of the 2027 elections. He advised journalists to participate in an ongoing screening exercise at the NUJ House, warning that non-participants would be barred from covering press briefings at the secretariat.
This explosive allegation has stirred political tensions in Benue, with observers watching for official responses from the state government and named national figures. As the December timeline approaches, the coming weeks could see heightened scrutiny and potential legal actions. Governor Alia’s administration, focused on infrastructure and security amid farmer-herder challenges, now faces another layer of political intrigue. The people of Benue, Tarzoor warned, will not fold their arms and allow derailment of progress. More details are expected as the situation unfolds.
