Makurdi, Benue State (Nigeria): Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Governor Hyacinth Alia has appointed 23 democracy point men across Benue State’s Local Government Areas (LGAs) to strengthen grassroots participation and mainstream inclusive governance.
Alia, who announced the appointments in Makurdi during the APC expanded caucus meeting, said that the appointees are to coordinate All Progressive Congress (APC) activities in LGAs and strengthen the party at the grassroots.
The governor tasked the appointees with serving as good ambassadors of the party and his progressive government, and with embarking on an aggressive APC membership drive across the state.
He also urged them to promote the party and make it a better choice for all Benue residents.
Alia urged them to connect with the people at the grassroots and ensure that government interventions trickle down to the local communities.
The governor warned that they would be held accountable if the funds intended for the people were diverted.
He advised them to liaise with other stakeholders to ensure that the people fully participate in the ongoing voter registration process.
Alia also promised to mobilise them where necessary, adding that it was a critical exercise, especially now that the general elections were around the corner.
The governor strongly condemned the practice of bringing all political disagreements to him in Makurdi at the slightest opportunity, stating that the central point men would now resolve some of these issues.
He also said only issues that were beyond their control should be brought to his attention.
Alia directed the point men to search for and provide 200 artisans across the state with job opportunities, as well as 800 young people willing to travel outside the country to acquire skills.
The governor, however, said those selected must provide a certificate of fitness from the Father Adasu University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi.
Alia finally expressed gratitude to the members of the party for their support, saying they must continue to work as a unified body.
He promised that his administration would continue to be fair, transparent, responsible and accountable to the people because the APC was a party that could not settle for less.
