Ranching Proposal: Alia Vows To Put Benue’s Interest First

Benue State governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has said he will take a decision on the federal government’s proposed pilot ranches in the state based on what is in the best interest of the people.

Alia, through his chief press secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, urged restraint and thoughtful consideration of the proposal, saying there was no need to rush the matter into the streets, churches, media or marketplaces in a bid to politicise it.

Kula, who stated this in a post on his Facebook page on Saturday, said the governor had never taken any position contrary to the interests of Benue State.

According to him, Alia remained fully engaged on the matter and was consulting with the people and relevant authorities before arriving at a decision.

“Governor Hyacinth Alia is a steadfast democrat who remains conscious that his mandate is a product of the people’s will. He has consistently maintained that every Benue person is a critical stakeholder in the collective effort to make the state great again. The governor has demonstrated on several occasions that he does not merely lead; he serves,” Kula said.

He explained that the federal government’s proposal to establish pilot ranches in some states, including Benue, required careful consideration.

“Against this background, and in view of the Federal Government’s proposal to establish pilot ranches in some states, including Benue, there is a need for restraint and thoughtful consideration. There is no need to take the issue to the streets, churches, media or marketplaces in a rush to politicise it,” he said.

Kula said the governor would approach the matter with “careful consideration and strategic judgement”, while ensuring that the interests of Benue and its people remained his foremost priority.

He added that the governor was not under any obligation to make an immediate public pronouncement on every issue.

“It is not every issue that requires an immediate public pronouncement. Sometimes, measured deliberation produces better outcomes. That is why patience and thoughtful engagement are necessary as the government considers the proposal and determines the best course of action for Benue,” he said.