“I Inherited N359bn Salary Arrears in Benue” – Gov. Hyacinth Alia

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State announced that his administration inherited over N359 billion in salary arrears from previous governments. The governor made this revelation on Monday at Okpoga, during a thank-you tour of the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency.

Addressing the crowd, Governor Alia criticized past administrations for misleading the public about the financial state of the government and claimed that the Federal Government had withheld funds needed for salary payments.

He assured the public that his administration would prioritize the timely payment of workers’ salaries, stating, “Henceforth, civil servants in the State will be paid from the 22nd of every month.”

Governor Alia expressed gratitude to the people for their trust and pledged to initiate several development projects, including the revival of the Igumale Cement Factory and the construction of access roads in the area. He also promised to bring 5,000 kW of electricity to light up Okpoga, addressing the area’s power challenges. “I have come to reduce your pains and suffering,” he affirmed.

He called for continued support for his administration and patience with President Bola Tinubu, highlighting the positive impact of the president’s policies for Nigerians.

In a related development, Daniel Onjeh, a former senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), urged Governor Alia to deliver on his campaign promises amid criticism from opposition parties. Onjeh emphasized the importance of tangible developments in Benue South, saying, “The opposition is asking what you have done for Benue South. We want to see things manifest. Do not be distracted by the blackmail of the opposition.”

During the event, APC Acting Chairman Benjamin Omakolon welcomed 500 defectors from opposition parties to the APC, assuring them of equal treatment within the party.