Benue State governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, has urged those who have been unfairly labeling the state’s youth as thugs to issue immediate apologies and cease from using such derogatory terms.
The governor delivered this message at Government House Makurdi on Friday, during a warm reception by various youth groups upon his return from an official trip to the United States of America. He emphasized that it was unjust to tarnish the reputation of the hardworking young individuals of the state by associating them with negative labels like “thugs,” as such remarks cast a negative light on the entire state.
Alia stressed that any remarks contradicting the positive image of the state and its esteemed citizens would be addressed by his administration. He implored individuals to refrain from referring to the state’s youth as thugs, especially when they are actively supporting the administration or contributing to the state’s growth and development.
He demanded retractions from anyone who had previously labeled the state’s youth in such a manner, asserting that the youth of Benue State have endured hardships in the past and are now striving for progress and development. Alia urged everyone to respect and honor the youth, emphasizing that they are deeply invested in the well-being of the state.
Expressing gratitude to the youth for their steadfast support, the governor explained that his trip to the USA aimed to explore opportunities for charting a new course for Benue. He highlighted the importance of showcasing Benue’s potential on the international stage and envisioned the state becoming a beacon of development that others would seek to emulate.
Additionally, Alia mentioned Benue’s participation in discussions on addressing insecurity in the Northern states during the trip, organized by the United States Peace Institute in collaboration with Nigerian institutions.