Alia’s strategic foresight on fortifying Benue’s political landscape

BY AGBO ULOKO

Recently, political commentators have been discussing political developments, especially as they relate to issues of misunderstanding in our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Benue state. Many commentaries are glaringly skewed either based on stark ignorance of the issues involved, disinformation or deliberate mischief to curry unjustified sympathy for a group.

Consequently, just like some uninformed observers continue to blindly jump into the arena with twisted facts, an erudite scholar and esteemed Agila-born intellectual, Pita Agbese, yesterday posed a question that reverberates through the corridors of political intrigue: “What is Gov Alia’s endgame?”

Through his narrative, Agbese tried to paint a vivid picture of the political landscape in Benue State, portraying Governor Hyacinth Alia’s manoeuvres as enigmatic and confounding.

However, Agbese failed or deliberately overlooked the fact that a deeper examination reveals the intricate tapestry of strategic foresight woven into Governor Alia’s actions.

Those who care to know and are genuinely concerned about political developments in Benue State should understand that Governor Alia’s meticulous attention to internal party affairs transcends mere political posturing; rather, it represents a calculated strategy to navigate the complex nexus of governance and party dynamics.

As the ancient Greek philosopher Plato sagely remarked, “Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber”. In the labyrinthine corridors of Nigerian politics, such wisdom rings true, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between effective governance and astute political manoeuvring.

At the 11th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the eminent former governor, and national chairman of the party, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, elucidated the constitutional mandate recognising serving governors as the rightful leaders of the party at the state level.

His admonition against power struggles among former and serving governors within the APC serves as a clarion call to adhere to the party’s constitutional framework.

Thus, what is wrong even if Governor Alia has embarked on a quest to consolidate control over the APC in Benue state? Could one who knows what politics means in Nigeria truly say the quest is driven by personal ambition?

Rather, Alia deserves adulation as a fast learner, an emerging leader who is gloriously moved by a steadfast commitment to upholding the party’s principles and preserving its integrity.

Drawing a parallel between Governor Alia and his predecessor, Samuel Ortom, is entirely a study in contrast.

In the words of the legendary Chinese military strategist, Sun Tzu, “The greatest victory is that which requires no battle”. Governor Alia’s strategic foresight embodies this principle, epitomising leadership that anticipates challenges and deftly navigates them with finesse.

One cannot ignore the recurrent pattern of conflict between former Benue state governors and the incumbent secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

This enduring dynamic underscores the pivotal role of party dynamics in shaping political outcomes within the state. Sen. Akume’s formidable influence within the APC hierarchy poses a formidable challenge to governors seeking to assert their authority, as evidenced by past confrontations with Governors Suswam and Ortom.

As Franklin D. Roosevelt astutely observed, “In politics, nothing happens by accident. If it happens, you can bet it was planned that way”.

In light of these historical precedents, Governor Alia’s strategic manoeuvring to consolidate control over the APC in Benue state is not a distraction from governance but rather a proactive step towards ensuring political stability and effective leadership.

As the revered Greek philosopher Aristotle posited, “Politics is the art of the possible”. This has not stopped Governor Alia from delivering on much-needed infrastructural interventions such as procuring and delivering over 100 trucks of fertilisers to farmers at subsidised rates; consistent payment of salaries and pensions on the 25th of each month since his inauguration; ongoing construction of 16 strategic roads within Makurdi metropolis (some already completed); flagship projects such as the flyover at Wurukum Roundabout and the Underpass at High-Level Roundabout underscore the government’s dedication to advancing urban development etc.

In the intricate dance of Nigerian politics, Governor Alia’s actions epitomise the art of the possible. So when Pita Agbese asks, “What is Gov Alia’s endgame?”, the response is very simple. Governor Alia’s endgame is to fortify Benue’s political landscape, deliver on his mandate, and chart a course towards prosperity for its people.

Uloko is a former member of the Benue State House of Assembly and a senior stakeholder in APC Benue state. He can be reached via 08036092739.