Benue @ 50: Documentary Evidence Shows . Alia Invited Prominent Sons, Daughters Across Political Divide
Fresh documentary evidence has emerged showing that the Benue State Government, under the leadership of Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, extended invitations to prominent sons and daughters of the state across political affiliations for the state's Golden Jubilee celebration.
Copies of official invitation letters issued by the Office of the Secretary to the State Government indicate that several eminent personalities, including former governors, serving and former federal lawmakers, judicial officers, cabinet members, and other distinguished stakeholders, were formally invited to participate in the Benue @ 50 celebrations.
Among those invited were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; former Senate President, Senator David Mark; Senators Emmanuel Udende, Titus Zam, and Abba Patrick Moro; Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev; Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono; and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Tsoho, among other notable Benue indigenes.
The invitation letters, signed by the Secretary to the State Government, DCNS. Serumun Deborah Aber, described the Golden Jubilee as a historic milestone celebrating Benue State's 50 years of existence since its creation on February 3, 1976. The event was also presented as an opportunity to honour the state's rich cultural heritage, resilience, and contributions to Nigeria's development.
The documents further reveal that the Governor's administration appealed to the invitees to grace the occasion as respected elder statesmen and distinguished personalities whose leadership and contributions continue to inspire younger generations.
Political observers say the invitations demonstrate Governor Alia's commitment to inclusive governance and his recognition of the contributions of Benue leaders, irrespective of political affiliation.
According to supporters of the administration, the invitations reflect Governor Alia's belief that he governs all Benue people without discrimination and that leadership requires respect for those who have previously served the state and the nation. They argue that the gesture underscores his conviction that public service transcends partisan interests and that every deserving statesman should be accorded the respect due to them.
The publication of the invitation letters has also been presented as documentary evidence to counter claims that certain prominent Benue personalities were excluded from the Golden Jubilee celebrations, reinforcing the position that the invitations cut across party lines and political interests.
As Benue marks its 50th anniversary, the administration says the celebration is intended to unite the people of the state, both at home and in the diaspora, in recognition of their shared history, achievements, and aspirations for a greater Benue.
