Benue Surpasses the “Days of Locust” Era Under Governor Ortom – Tersoo Kula

The Benue State Government has defended Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, asserting that the state has made substantial progress under his leadership and should not revert to the “days of locust” that characterized the tenure of former Governor Samuel Ortom.

In a statement released by Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula, the government highlighted the ongoing transformation across various sectors in Benue.

Kula said Governor Alia entered office with a clear vision to lift the state out of years of hardship and poor governance that, according to the statement, marked the Peoples Democratic Party-led administration of Samuel Ortom.

The statement noted that workers and pensioners suffered neglect during the previous administration, while public infrastructure deteriorated despite federal interventions and loans received by the state.

It alleged that the Ortom administration left behind debts exceeding N300 billion at the state level and more than N100 billion in local government liabilities.

Additionally, the statement claimed that the current administration inherited several judgment debts and garnishee orders linked to actions taken during the former government.

The statement further accused the former administration of relying heavily on propaganda rather than delivering practical solutions to the state’s challenges.

Highlighting achievements under Governor Alia, Kula said the administration has improved workers’ welfare through regular salary payments and renewed attention to pensioners.

He added that the government has embarked on infrastructure development projects, including the construction of over 40 intra‑city roads, installation of solar streetlights, rehabilitation of the Otobi Water Works, and the establishment of institutions and industries aimed at boosting economic growth.

Kula also referenced a recent television appearance by a spokesperson to former Governor Ortom, describing the outing as an attempt to undermine the achievements of the Alia administration.

“The Benue people have come to understand the difference between leadership and propaganda; the difference between progress and deception,” the statement said.

The government maintained that residents of the state have embraced the current direction of governance and are determined not to return to the past.