Abba Moro, the Senate Minority Leader and Senator for Benue South, has voiced criticism towards Governor Hyacinth Alia’s governance style in Benue State, claiming it is overly centralized. In an interview on Democracy Today, aired by African Independent Television (AIT), Moro argued that the governor has sidelined commissioners and other political appointees, concentrating decision-making power in his own hands.
Moro emphasized that effective leadership necessitates consultation and inclusivity, urging Governor Alia to involve stakeholders in the state’s progress. He stressed that it is the governor’s duty as a leader to unite the people and collectively work towards the state’s development.
He likened the administration to a church, where decisions are made unilaterally. Moro also accused Governor Alia of overstepping his role by acting as the state’s de facto Accountant-General and Commissioner for both Finance and Works.
The senator challenged residents to scrutinize the influence of commissioners and political appointees, stating that many hold negligible authority under the current administration.
From his visits to camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs), Moro noted that the state’s centralized structure hampers officials’ ability to address emergencies effectively. He recounted when a commissioner announced a ₦150,000 donation for three IDP camps—a sum he found insufficient and personally supplemented for urgent needs.
He also cited an incident where the Deputy Governor pledged ₦1 million to soldiers combating insecurity but reportedly did not have the financial authority to deliver on this promise.
These examples, according to Moro, illustrate the inadequate financial and administrative powers granted to senior officials by the current government.
These remarks contribute to ongoing political discussions surrounding governance and leadership in Benue State, amidst prevailing security challenges, humanitarian issues, and political tensions. As of this report, the Benue State Government has yet to respond officially to Moro’s allegations.
