The Benue State Government has dismissed allegations by the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) that it is planning to disrupt the proposed visit of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the state.
The government described the allegation, reportedly made by the party’s governorship candidate, Prof. Terhemba Shija, as false, baseless and mischievous.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Chief Solomon Iorpev, the government accused the NDC of making speculative claims to create the impression that the administration was opposed to Obi’s visit.
It described the allegation as an attempt to stage a disruption, blame the government and gain public sympathy.
The government maintained that Benue remained a hospitable state where every Nigerian was free to move and participate in political activities, including campaigning for votes.
It said Governor Hyacinth Alia was focused on rebuilding the state, restoring security and delivering development projects, adding that his administration had no reason to disrupt the visit of any political figure.
The statement also cautioned the NDC against politicizing the Yelwata tragedy, stressing that the memory of the victims remained sacred to the people of the state.
It said the government continued to mourn with the families of those affected and urged the party not to turn a visit intended to console bereaved families into a political publicity campaign.
The government further assured that it remained responsible for the safety of all visitors to the state and was taking necessary measures to ensure peaceful movement and interactions.
It urged the NDC to ensure that its supporters and associates conducted themselves peacefully during the proposed visit.
The statement also called on residents to disregard what it described as false information and continue their lawful activities without fear.
However, the government warned that security agencies would deal firmly with anyone attempting to cause disorder or disrupt public peace, irrespective of their political affiliation.
