Tribunal affirms Alia as Benue governor, dismisses PDP’s petition

The Benue governorship election tribunal has affirmed Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as governor of the state.

Alia was declared the winner of the governorship election that was held in March.

The Catholic priest polled 473,933 votes to be declared winner by the electoral commission.

However, Titus Uba, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue, filed a petition challenging Alia’s victory.

Delivering its verdict on Saturday, Ibrahim Karaye, chairman of the three-member tribunal panel, said they lacked jurisdiction to hear the petition because it is a pre-election matter.

Karaye said Uba ought to have prosecuted the forgery allegation against Sam Ode, Benue deputy governor, at the high court.

‘IT’S VICTORY FOR DEMOCRACY’

Reacting to the judgment, Alia said it is a victory for democracy and the rule of law.

In a statement, Tersoo Kula, chief press secretary (CPS) to Alia, quoted him as saying that his administration is committed to prioritising the welfare of the residents of Benue.

“He says the court has indicated once again that it is the last hope of the common man and that no might is powerful enough to thwart the supreme will of the people and claim power through the back door,” Kula said.

“Governor Alia rededicates himself to the service of the people and the strengthening of democratic values across the state.

“He enjoins all and sundry including members of the opposition to put their hands on deck and ensure that the state is moved to very heights of greatness away from the current mess of misery, poverty and maladministration.”