Benue: Gov. Alia Claims Ortom Owes 91 of 96 Months’ Salaries, Says Akase

Media aide to former Benue State governor Samuel Ortom, Tever Akase, accused Governor Hyacinth Alia of lying about his conduct on Monday.

Akase revealed that during Ortom’s eight‑year tenure, state civil servants received salaries for 91 of the 96 months.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show, Akase questioned how the five months he claimed were unpaid had “metamorphosed into four years.”

He urged the governor to explain the amounts he has received.

“Governor Alia is not telling Benue people how much he is receiving. Since he came in, there has not been any accountability briefing. As we speak, local government workers are on strike because Alia has not paid them the salaries for March and April,” Akase said.

“I have just told you that out of 96 months in eight years, Ortom was able to pay 91 months, so if he paid 91 months, how is that four years? How has five months metamorphosed into four years?” he added.

“Governance must come with honour. When you are the governor of a state, be truthful to the people because you are representing the people, so speak with honour and integrity,” Akase continued.

He also criticised the governor’s claim of constructing one kilometre of road for N5.2 billion. “For example, the road from Wurukum to Air Force Base is 13 kilometres, but Alia has approved N68 billion. When you calculate by 13 kilometres, you will have 5.2 billion per kilometre, so how is this sincere to the people?” Akase asked.

“A governor of the state comes to television, instead of telling the people the truth, he is telling lies; you have to be truthful, there should be integrity in governance,” he concluded.