Benue Govt slams Emmanuel Jime for describing Gov Alia as ‘this thing’, demands direct apology  

Benue State Government Criticizes Former Speaker for Remarks on Governor Alia

The Benue State Government has admonished former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Jime, for his recent comments in which he referred to Governor Hyacinth Alia as “this thing terrorizing us.” The government’s response also characterized Jime’s subsequent apology as “perfunctory” and inadequate.

In a statement released on Monday by Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula, the government claimed Jime’s apology failed to appropriately address both the Governor and the residents of Benue State. The statement emphasized that a genuine apology should be specifically directed at the individuals offended, rather than being generally broadcast.

The government criticized the tone and content of Jime’s initial remarks, stating they were disrespectful to the office of the Governor and unbecoming of someone with his political background, including his tenure as Speaker and two terms as a National Assembly member.

“Jime is an indigene of Makurdi Local Government Area, which has greatly benefited from the developmental efforts of Governor Hyacinth Alia over the past three years,” the statement noted, questioning the basis for his criticisms amid visible infrastructural development in the region.

The government further suggested that Jime’s comments could stem from political motivations, particularly his dissatisfaction with not securing a senatorial ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.

The statement posed a rhetorical question: “Is it the roads Governor Hyacinth Alia has constructed in Makurdi that earned him the label of a ‘terrorist’ in Jime’s estimation, or is it his inability to secure a senatorial ticket?”

Emphasizing the need for respect across political lines, the government warned against personal attacks on elected officials. “Regardless of any personal grievances, there is a necessity to respect the office held by the Governor,” the statement added.

Moreover, the government dismissed Jime’s clarification that he regretted the “characterization” of Governor Alia, insisting that the apology was still not directed at either the Governor or the people of Benue State.

In its conclusion, the government reiterated its demand for Jime to issue a formal apology specifically to Governor Alia and the residents of the state, rather than addressing only those who found his remarks offensive. The statement conveyed that until such a proper apology is made, the matter remains unresolved.

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