In the heart of Benue State, a political storm is brewing, stirring up tensions and divisions among its residents. Former House of Representatives member and All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, Francis Ottah Agbo, steps into the fray to address the escalating situation that has been making headlines in recent weeks.
Ottah Agbo wastes no time delving into the core of the issue, swiftly dismissing rumors of a leadership crisis within the state. In an exclusive interview with TCV Politics, he staunchly refutes claims suggesting the existence of “two governors
” in Benue. With conviction in his voice, Ottah declares, “
Governor Hyacinth Alia is the sitting governor of Benue State. There are no two governors.
”
The seasoned politician goes on to express his dismay at what he perceives as underhanded tactics employed by certain individuals seeking to undermine Governor Alia’s authority for their personal gain. He labels these individuals as “
hangers-on,
” accusing them of sowing seeds of discord through baseless rumors and manufactured crises. According to Ottah, these agitators are driven by ulterior motives and a desire to curry favor with influential figures.
Drawing parallels from history, Ottah highlights past administrations where leaders like George Akume, Governor Gabriel Suswam, and Governor Samuel Ortom wielded undisputed control during their tenures. Emphasizing Governor Alia’s legitimacy and power within the current political landscape, Ottah asserts firmly, “
Now, Governor Alia is the man in charge; he’s not just in government; he is in power.”
The APC chieftain recounts confronting some of these young provocateurs who have been spreading falsehoods aimed at destabilizing the governor’s position. Addressing insinuations about Governor Alia’s leadership within the APC ranks, Ottah stresses that tradition dictates that the sitting governor assumes leadership within the party structure.
However, amidst this political maelstrom lies a different challenge – armed militia attacks disrupting peace in places like Akawe. Ottah urges for unity and support behind Governor Alia so that progress can prevail without hindrance from external threats.
As calls mount for National Assembly intervention in Benue’s political affairs, Ottah stands resolute against such actions. Citing legal opinions from luminaries like Femi Falana SAN, he underscores that constitutional boundaries prevent external interference with a sitting governor or state assembly unless under extreme circumstances.
Rebuking recent protests orchestrated by groups like “Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law,” Ottah dismisses their authority to challenge a state governor or assembly unilaterally. He clarifies that such interventions are only permissible under dire circumstances such as war or legislative collapse and even then remain temporary measures.
Through Ottah Agbo’s insights and analysis emerges a complex web of political intrigue woven around power struggles and vested interests – underscoring how fragile political stability can be when ambition clashes with established norms.
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