………………Alia’s Government Sets the Record Straight.
FIC Report (Benue State) – The Benue State Government has refuted recent media reports suggesting that the state’s debt profile rose from ₦122.5 billion to ₦187.5 billion between September and December 2024. The government described the claims as entirely false, misleading, and a calculated attempt to misinform the public.
In a statement issued on Saturday, April 5, 2025, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, clarified that the Alia-led administration has not borrowed any funds or secured any bonds since assumption of office over a year and eight months ago.
“This baseless narrative is being pushed by disgruntled political elements and exiles who are desperate to mislead the people and discredit the tangible progress recorded under the leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia,” the statement read.
The government recalled that Governor Alia’s predecessor, Mr. Samuel Ortom, had publicly acknowledged the debt burden of ₦187.5 billion as of May 2024. This figure, already a matter of public record, stands in stark contrast to the false claims of a ₦65 billion increase made by certain individuals.
“It is, therefore, curious and highly questionable how anyone arrived at a claim that Benue’s debt increased from ₦122.5 billion to ₦187.5 billion, when no fresh borrowing has taken place under this administration,” Kula said.
The statement further condemned the role of some media houses in spreading unverified and politically motivated information, calling on journalists to uphold professional ethics by verifying facts before publication.
“We will continue to expose lies and propaganda, no matter how often they are repackaged. The truth remains that this administration is fiscally disciplined, transparent, and accountable to the people of Benue,” Kula added.
Governor Alia’s administration reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to responsible governance and urged the people of Benue to disregard the misinformation being circulated by detractors.
Signed
Irene Iveren Onehi
Head of Center
Federal Information Center
Makurdi
