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In a landmark gathering at the Council Chambers in Gboko, Benue State, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, the Supreme Council of the Tiv Area Traditional Council (Ijirtamen) unanimously resolved to back Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for continuation in office until 2031. The decision, reached amidst a high-profile assembly of Tiv traditional rulers, chieftaincy title holders, local government chairmen, state and national legislators, political appointees, and other prominent sons and daughters of Tiv land, underscores overwhelming traditional support for the governor’s leadership.
Delivering a passionate address, Governor Alia called for peace and harmony among individuals and communities across Tiv land and Benue State at large. He highlighted the unprecedented external challenges facing the Tiv nation and urged unity in purpose, mutual understanding, and cooperation to overcome them. Warning against communal clashes over land disputes, he advocated for a calm environment to maintain focus on tackling external threats to the state.
The governor gave a brief account of his administration’s achievements in health, education, agriculture, sports, infrastructure, human capital development, and security, emphasizing a people-oriented approach. He vowed to continue guaranteeing peace, developing the state, and transforming citizens’ lives, while inviting aggrieved parties to rejoin his vision for collective progress.
On security, Governor Alia outlined the state government’s robust collaboration with federal authorities to end insecurity, thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustained support. He assured that his administration would not relent until the challenge is fully surmounted, stressing that security is a collective responsibility requiring citizens to report suspicious activities to authorities.
In a direct appeal, he urged the Supreme Council to grant him extended time in leadership to execute more projects aimed at improving quality of life, boosting the economy, and creating opportunities for Benue people. He also appreciated the council for choosing him as governor amidst stiff competition.
Earlier, the council, under the leadership of the Tiv paramount ruler, Tor Tiv V, His Majesty Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, received reports on security issues in Tiv Kingdom. Traditional rulers were directed to monitor their subjects closely, report unlawful acts to authorities, and face immediate sanctions if found aiding or abetting crime.
A strict ban was imposed on the cultivation of Indian hemp (weed) anywhere in Tiv Kingdom, with cultivators facing arrest and jail, and traditional rulers held accountable for vigilance.
The council also received updates on previously approved cultural reforms, the “Bam u Kasev Tiv” loan scheme designed to empower Tiv women in trades of their choice, and the forthcoming Tiv television platform to promote the Tiv language, culture, and showcase community activities globally.
With this endorsement, Governor Alia’s administration gains significant traditional backing as it pushes forward its agenda of peace, development, and cultural preservation in Benue State.
