Benue State governor Hyacinth Alia has warned that any traditional ruler found concealing and abating criminality in his domain will be dethroned.
The governor made this known during the memorial Thanksgiving Mass/Reception for his HRH, Late Chief Abu King Shuluwa (Tor Sankera I), at the Catholic Youth Centre Makurdi. He called on traditional rulers to continue to watch and preach against crime in their communities at all times.
Governor Alia outlined qualities for the next First Class Chiefs and insisted that the next Tor Sankera must be a man of integrity, a lover of truth, and someone willing to die for his people.
According to Alia, “I have already sent a message to the Tor Tiv, Prof. Jame Ayatse, requesting him to accelerate the selection process, saying it was time for someone who will come in with fresh thinking for development and growth to take over the place of Late Abu King Shuluwa.”
He highlighted several causes the late Shuluwa championed during his lifetime, including his unwavering commitment to ensuring peace returned to Sankera.
While acknowledging the skirmishes of violent attacks that are still going on in Sankera, Governor Alia reiterated his commitment to ensuring that absolute peace is returned to the area so that people can continue with their normal businesses.
He thanked the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina-ala Diocese, Most Rev Isaac Dugu and the Tor Tiv, HRM Orchivirigh Prof. James Ayatse, for their unwavering dedication to bringing peace to the Sankera axis, which compromised Katsina/Ala, Ukum, and Logo.
Governor Alia appreciated the people of the state for their presence and associating with the Shuluwa family, saying they had demonstrated love and concern for the family in the past year.
In separate remarks, the chairman of Katsina-ala local government area, Justin Shaku, and the House of Assembly member representing Katsina-ala West Constituency, Peter Ipusu, commended the governor for his show of love for the people of Sankera and the efforts he has been making to restore peace in the area. They added that the people of Sankera would continue pitching tents with him throughout his political journey.
