Godwin Ityoachimin, a governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 Benue State election, has criticised the administration of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, accusing it of fostering insecurity, thuggery, and disobedience to democratic principles in the state.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, Ityoachimin, an estate surveyor and real estate developer, described recent political developments in Benue as “deeply troubling.” He condemned the activities of groups chanting “No Alia, No Benue”, warning that such behaviour was unlawful, undemocratic, and capable of igniting a political crisis.
“The situation is regrettable. How can a group of people decide who contests an election, which is a constitutional right? How can you assemble gangsters to harass people, chanting in the streets, ‘No Alia, No Benue’? This is a dangerous trend—a prelude to anarchy. Security agencies must act now,” he said.
Ityoachimin accused Governor Alia of turning a blind eye to intimidation, arson, and harassment allegedly being deployed against political opponents in preparation for the 2027 elections. He stressed that Benue State existed long before Alia’s emergence and would continue to exist after his tenure.
Citing the June Yelewata attack in which over 100 lives were lost, the APC aspirant faulted the governor’s handling of the tragedy. He noted that despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for a stakeholders’ meeting, nearly three months had passed without concrete action.
“If elected in 2027, my administration will prioritise security through massive investment in personnel, infrastructure, and modern technology,” he pledged. He further promised to strengthen regional collaboration with Nasarawa and Taraba states to curb cross-border crimes.
On youth involvement in political violence, Ityoachimin blamed the state government for enabling thuggery instead of discouraging it. He referenced recent violent clashes in Gboko as evidence of a looming breakdown of law and order, warning that Benue risked sliding into anarchy ahead of the 2027 polls.
According to him, empowering young people through education, entrepreneurship, and leadership programmes is key to curbing political violence. “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” he cautioned.
While he reaffirmed his commitment to democratic values and a secure, united, and prosperous Benue, Ityoachimin also praised President Tinubu for stabilising the national economy and addressing insecurity under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He pledged his full support for Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, describing the president as a promise-keeper.
