By: Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi.
The Benue State Government has frowned at the video circulation in online media space aimed to discredit the just concluded local government elections, describing the video as handiwork of mischief makers desperate to tarnished the hard- earned reputation of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, Mr Tersoo Kula during a press conference yesterday in Makurdi, Benue State, stated that with great concern that that the general public properly informed on the recent video circulating in connection with the local government polls held last Saturday.
The CPS further reiterated that the purported video was a calculated attempt to smear the hard- earned reputation of the government under the watch of the Governor Hyacinth Alia.
According to him the video, has been used to ridicule the government of Benue State and also the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, describing it as nothing more than an unfortunate attempt by desperate individuals to score cheap points .
The Chief Press Secretary insisted when review was carried out , it is clear that the video is an obvious stage-managed drama, orchestrated by those who seek to undermine the good governance of His Excellency, Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
“During scrutiny We found no credible evidence linking this fabricated content to the governor or his administration.”
He explained prior to the elections, credible sources informed us of underhand plans by some opposition elements to discredit the electoral process. This video appears to be one of their tactics to cast a shadow over what was a transparent and violence-free election.
“It is important to note that this election marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time in many years that voters in the State had access to ballot papers for local government elections.”
“For the first time , since the final resurgence of democracy in Nigeria, BSIEC recruited and meticulously trained all adhoc staff for the polls. There was also massive deployment of adhoc staff and sensitive and nonsensitive materials distributed in the full glare of the media and political party agents, “. he emphasised.
He said this achievement should be celebrated rather than tarnished the hard earned reputation of those responsible for violence free polls
He urged journalists and media outlets, particularly Arise TV, which aired the misleading video and accompanying commentary to uphold the ethics of their profession.
