From Msurshima Andrew, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has inaugurated the newly elected 23 local government chairmen in the state.
Alia who spoke in Government House Makurdi, on Monday, said their inaugurated marks a significant moment in the life and future of local government administration in Benue, especially as it concerns the people at the grassroots who came out in their numbers to overwhelmingly choose them at the polls.
He congratulated the chairmen, the All Progressives Congress, (APC), and the people of the state for their emergence saying their informed choices and unanimous voices at the polls were a clear indication of their firm belief in the new Benue which the APC is determined to build, from the federal, through the state, down to the local government levels respectively.
He charged them to work diligently, to provide strategic leadership, and to uphold the highest standards of governance without fear or favour.
He said “This is a responsibility that demands integrity, foresight, and a steadfast dedication to the principles of accountability, transparency, fairness and honesty in all your dealings.
“I encourage you to build on the developmental foundations engendered by the outgoing caretaker committees. Listen attentively to the needs of our people in your various local government areas, and engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration with all stakeholders with a view to fostering an inclusive government towards ensuring a more prosperous future for all.”
The Governor said they must de-emphasize personal gains in leadership, and rather focus on bringing democratic deliverables closer to the people as leadership is about service and sacrifice and not personal glory.
While stressing that no tier of government operates in isolation, the Governor said in light of the newly granted local government autonomy, they should always collaborate with the government at the state level in order to implement policies and programmes that benefit the rural communities.
Alia who warned that the time for politicking is over said this is a time to hit the ground running, urging them to extend an olive branch to members of the opposition parties by entertaining ideas and constructive criticisms aimed at entrenching democracy and good governance.
He advised them to swear in the councilors therein, as they return to their various LGs and always count on his support and that of the entire administration in the course of their tenure.
Speaking on behalf of the 23 LG chairmen, Chairman, Vandiekya LG, Mr Dennis Guda, appreciated the Benue people for electing them and promised to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.
Guda said they would also be loyal to the party, APC, upholding the Constitution and collaborating with the State Government to offer good governance to the people of the state.
