In a bold move to fortify the All Progressives Congress (APC) and amplify his administration’s grassroots influence in preparation for the 2027 general elections, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, hosted two pivotal political events in Makurdi over the weekend. These gatherings, a pre-decamping dinner and an expanded APC caucus meeting, underscored the governor’s strategic vision to unify the party and consolidate his leadership in the state. A key highlight was the unveiling of 23 Gubernatorial Liaison Officers (GLOs), also referred to as “Pointmen,” tasked with coordinating political and administrative activities across all local government areas (LGAs) in Benue State.
On Friday, October 10, Makurdi buzzed with political fervor as the APC organized a high-profile dinner at the Government House to honor prominent Benue indigenes poised to defect to the ruling party. The event, described by Governor Alia as a platform for fellowship and dialogue, aimed to foster unity and strategize for the state’s collective progress. Addressing attendees, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding Benue through inclusive governance and transparency, emphasizing that the state’s transformation transcends partisan divides. “This administration will continue to fight for the soul of Benue State. Our collective effort is needed to rebuild our land and restore the dignity of our people,” he declared, rallying stakeholders to support his vision.
Governor Alia also addressed his administration’s decision to secure a loan for the first time, a move he defended as necessary to complete critical infrastructure projects while maintaining fiscal discipline and addressing inherited debts. He highlighted his government’s focus on prudent financial management, which has enabled consistent payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities—achievements that have bolstered public confidence in his leadership.
The dinner drew commendations from several political figures who praised Governor Alia’s transformative agenda. Hon. Pastor Ojotu Ojema, the federal lawmaker representing Apa/Agatu Constituency, announced his decision to join the APC, citing the governor’s remarkable strides in infrastructure development and financial accountability. Similarly, Dr. Paul Orhii, former Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), described Benue under Alia’s leadership as a “construction site,” reflecting the scale of ongoing development projects. Mrs. Ngunan Addingi, a former Commissioner for Information, pledged to mobilize women and youths to support the administration’s initiatives, underscoring the growing public support for the governor’s policies.
Dr. Benjamin Omale, the State APC Chairman, attributed the party’s surging popularity to Governor Alia’s performance across sectors such as infrastructure, education, and public welfare. Hon. Solomon Wombo, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, noted that the dinner served as a prelude to an anticipated wave of defections from other political parties to the APC in the coming days, signaling a significant realignment in Benue’s political landscape.
On Saturday, October 11, Governor Alia convened an expanded APC caucus meeting at the Soft Arena Hall in Makurdi, attended by party elders, legislators, appointees, and stakeholders from all 23 LGAs. The centerpiece of the meeting was the formal announcement of the 23 Gubernatorial Liaison Officers, or “Pointmen,” appointed to serve as the governor’s representatives at the grassroots level. These officers are tasked with bridging communication gaps between the government, the APC, and local communities, ensuring effective coordination of political and administrative activities.
Governor Alia charged the Pointmen with acting as “chief servants” and direct links between his administration and the people. “If there is need, you should be the first person; your people should be able to smell you,” he said, emphasizing their role as accessible and responsive leaders. He urged them to foster camaraderie and collaboration with local stakeholders to advance the state’s development agenda. The appointees include prominent figures such as Hon. Francis Ottah Agbo for Ado, Hon. Dr. Ojema Ojotu for Agatu, Emmanuel Yahaya Eigege for Apa, Hon. Alex Addingi for Buruku, Hon. Jir Joseph Ter for Gboko, Dr. Hwande Terungwa Stephen for Guma, Engr. Terhemba David Nongo for Gwer East, Prof. Eugene Aliegba for Gwer West, Hon. Prince Solomon Wombo for Katsina-Ala, and Hon. Barr. Sam Ode, mni, for Otukpo, among others.
Political analysts view these events as a calculated effort by Governor Alia to strengthen his political base and enhance the APC’s dominance in Benue State. The appointment of the 23 Pointmen is seen as a strategic move to deepen grassroots engagement, ensuring that the governor’s policies and the party’s objectives resonate at the local level. By appointing influential and respected figures as GLOs, Alia is not only reinforcing his administration’s presence across the state but also building a robust network to mobilize support ahead of the 2027 elections.
The defection of high-profile politicians to the APC further underscores the governor’s growing influence. The influx of defectors, coupled with the party’s strengthened organizational structure, positions the APC as a formidable force in Benue’s political arena. The Pointmen are expected to play a critical role in sustaining this momentum, acting as the governor’s eyes and ears in their respective LGAs while fostering unity and driving development initiatives.
Governor Alia’s leadership style, characterized by inclusivity and a focus on tangible results, has earned him widespread acclaim. His administration’s emphasis on infrastructure, timely payment of salaries, and fiscal responsibility has resonated with both party loyalists and the broader populace. The twin events in Makurdi signal a deliberate effort to consolidate these gains, unify the APC, and position it as the dominant political force in Benue ahead of the 2027 elections.
As the state looks forward, the strategic appointment of the Pointmen and the anticipated wave of defections are likely to reshape Benue’s political dynamics. Governor Alia’s proactive approach to governance and party organization reflects a clear intent to maintain momentum and deliver on his promises to the people of Benue. With the APC’s grassroots machinery now bolstered by the GLOs, the party is well-positioned to deepen its influence and secure a strong mandate in the upcoming electoral cycle. These developments mark a significant step toward ensuring that Benue remains a stronghold for the APC while advancing the governor’s vision of a prosperous and united state.
