In a stirring Democracy Day address on June 12, 2025, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iornem Alia, called on the people of the state to renew their commitment to democratic values, national unity, and collective progress.
Describing Democracy Day as more than a date on the calendar, Governor Alia said it reflects the “spirit of freedom, sacrifice, and the enduring will of the people.” He emphasized that democracy is not merely a system of government but “a living force” empowered by citizens’ voices and the sacrifices of heroes.
“We are reminded that democracy is not a gift from the powerful,” he said, “it is a legacy built by the brave.”
Governor Alia paid glowing tribute to the late Chief MKO Abiola, winner of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, as well as other democracy icons like Kudirat Abiola and Gani Fawehinmi. He also honoured the roles played by Benue’s own democratic champions, including former Governor Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu and Senator Iyorchia Ayu, along with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who he described as “a key architect of the pro-democracy struggle.”
He commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing June 12 as Democracy Day and expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for “deepening the democratic ideals that bind Nigeria together.”
Reaffirming his administration’s alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda, Alia outlined the progress achieved under his leadership, including:
• Improved security in previously volatile areas through cooperation with security agencies and community leaders.
• Clearing of salary and pension arrears, ensuring that workers are duly compensated.
• Agricultural empowerment programmes to support farmers.
• Infrastructure improvements, including roads, schools, and hospitals.
• Support for displaced persons, ensuring their dignity and safe reintegration.
• Youth empowerment initiatives aimed at creating jobs and building a skilled workforce.
“These are not promises,” Alia stated. “We are delivering on them, one step at a time.”
Looking to the future, the governor announced plans to establish agro-industrial hubs, expand access to health insurance, support MSMEs and women-led businesses, and implement tech-driven governance reforms to ensure fiscal transparency.
Governor Alia appealed to all Benue indigenes, at home and in the diaspora, to unite for the state’s growth. “Our strength lies not in our differences, but in our shared purpose,” he said, urging the rejection of “division, hate and violence” in favour of dialogue and compassion.
He acknowledged the role of traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, and security operatives in promoting peace and order, and called for continued cooperation in building a just society.
In a solemn moment, the governor remembered those who paid the ultimate price for democracy—including the late Abiola and many Benue citizens who died defending their communities. “Their sacrifices are the pillars on which our democracy stands,” he declared.
Concluding his address, Governor Alia renewed his pledge to serve with humility, integrity, and results. “Democracy is not a destination, it is a journey,” he said. “Let us walk it together with faith, resolve, and the hope that tomorrow will be better than today.”
Long live democracy. Long live Benue State. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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