Why Benue First Lady Coordinator bears ‘Her Excellency’ title — Gov Alia’s Aide
The Benue State Government has defended the use of the title “Her Excellency” by Mrs. Scholastica Terngu Bensor, the Special Adviser to the Governor and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady. The government characterized criticisms surrounding the designation as stemming from misinformation and political mischief.
In a statement released Thursday, Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, noted that the debate over the title has revealed a significant misunderstanding regarding governance structures and protocol practices. Kula explained that “Her Excellency” is a formal honorific often designated to women in high-ranking public positions, and is not exclusive to the spouses of governors or presidents.
He highlighted that the title is regularly used for female leaders, ambassadors, ministers, and those appointed to oversee major public service and humanitarian programs. Kula clarified that the Office of the First Lady is not established by the constitution as an executive entity, but operates primarily as a humanitarian and social intervention platform, differing in structure from state to state.
Examples from Akwa Ibom and Edo states were cited, where individuals leading activities related to the Office of the First Lady are officially recognized and addressed as “Her Excellency.” Kula affirmed that Governor Alia has the constitutional authority to appoint qualified individuals to realize his administration’s objectives, especially in humanitarian and social welfare areas.
He commended Mrs. Bensor for her competence and commitment, noting her effectiveness in coordinating programs aimed at vulnerable populations throughout the state.
The statement encouraged the public to engage in discussions regarding governance with factual information and appropriate context, asserting that such offices are meant to enhance government initiatives rather than create parallel power structures.
