Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, says internal tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state are partly a fallout of his administration’s reforms in workers’ welfare and salary payments.
Speaking in an interview with Arise News, monitored by The News Chronicle, Alia acknowledged that while the APC remains a single party in Benue, there are undeniably certain differences among stakeholders.
He said his administration has been working to reconcile aggrieved members and forge a united front for development in the state.
According to him, pushback against his leadership intensified after he prioritised clearing long-standing salary and pension arrears upon assuming office.
“Before I came in, salaries were not paid for up to three or four years, and pensions were unpaid for as long as seven years,” he said. “Since I came in, every civil servant is paid accurately every month between the 22nd and 23rd. I believe this has not sat well with some people who were comfortable with the status quo.”
Alia added that his reforms have disrupted entrenched interests, fueling discontent within the state’s political space.
