The Benue State Government has denied allegations that it plans to disrupt the visit of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the state, insisting that he is free to visit and move around without hindrance.
The government described the allegation by the party’s governorship candidate, Terhemba Shija, as false, baseless and mischievous, accusing him of attempting to create a misleading narrative to attract public sympathy.
The state government made its position known in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Solomon Iorpev.
It said Benue remained a hospitable state where every Nigerian, including politicians seeking the support of residents, was free to move around. It added that Governor Hyacinth Alia had no reason to fear Obi’s visit.
According to the government, Alia is focused on rebuilding the state, restoring security and delivering development projects, adding that his administration would not engage in activities capable of undermining its achievements.
The government also cautioned the NDC against turning the Yelwata tragedy into a political campaign, describing the memory of the victims as sacred and urging the party not to use a visit intended to console bereaved families for publicity.
It assured visitors that adequate security measures would be put in place to guarantee their safety and ensure peaceful movement across the state.
The government further urged the NDC to ensure that its supporters and associates conducted themselves peacefully, while calling on residents to ignore what it described as falsehoods and continue their lawful activities without fear.
It, however, warned that security agencies would deal firmly with anyone attempting to cause disorder or disrupt the peace of the state, irrespective of their political affiliation.