Benue NUP Rejects Protest Against Gov. Alia

The Benue State Council of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has distanced itself from a protest that was staged against Governor Hyacinth Alia by a group calling itself “Concerned Pensioners.” The council says the demonstrators were hirelings and not members of the union.

The group held its protest on Wednesday in Makurdi, claiming regret over the decision to purchase a nomination form for Governor Alia.

In a statement released on Thursday, Benue State Chairman of the NUP, Comrade Michael Vembe, called the protesters impostors and urged Governor Alia and the public to ignore the demonstrators and their demands.

Comrade Vembe made it clear that the union had no part in the decision to buy a nomination form for Governor Alia. He noted that the alleged group of pensioners had previously opposed the purchase and voiced their objection through print and electronic media. “Why would a group claim regret for an action they did not take?” he asked.

Vembe condemned the group as illegal and requested that security agencies deal with its members accordingly.

He urged pensioners in the state to disregard the group’s antics and remain calm, adding that the NUP is negotiating with the state government over unpaid inherited arrears. The government has begun the payment process, which will soon be implemented.

Comrade Vembe pledged the NUP’s continued loyalty and full support for Governor Alia’s re‑election bid in the 2027 general elections.