The Benue state government has condemned the repeated attacks and uncomplimentary remarks made by House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, describing his behavior as disturbing and unbefitting of his status.
Agbese, who represents Ado, Okpokwu, Ogbadibo, federal constituency recently removed Governor Hyacinth Alia’s official portrait from his office and made disturbing comments against him.
Just few days ago, while receiving Mr Moses Mkeenem, former aide to the governor, Agbese described governor Alia’s administration as den of demons.
Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula at a press conference held at government house in Makurdi, expressed the government’s concerns over the attack and advised Agbese to focus on his legislative duties and deliver on his campaign promises instead of pursuing unnecessary conflicts.
“This isn’t the first time Agbese has exhibited questionable behavior. Previously, he removed Governor Alia’s portrait from his office and made unprofessional comments, which the government initially chose to ignore,” he said.
Kula emphasised that Governor Alia remains committed to prioritising the welfare of Benue people through initiatives like salary and pension payments, infrastructure development, and people-oriented projects.
He urged Agbese to refrain from maligning the governor and instead focus on his legislative responsibilities.
He recalled that when the same lawmaker made mockery of himself by taking down the portrait of Governor Alia in his office as well as ran commentaries not befitting of his status as representative of the people, government viewed the act as abnormal but kept calm in order to see his further actions.
“The actions by Mr. Philip Agbese are unacceptable and a deliberate move to malign a man who is delivering on his mandate by especially taking the welfare of Benue people through payment of salaries and pensions top priority, provision of infrastructure as well as other people oriented projects.
“We urge the lawmaker to face his legislative business instead of chasing shadows.
“Governor Alia would never be deterred or distracted by such antics but would always remained more than focused to deliver the goods to the people of Benue State.
“Even if the lawmaker wish to be Governor, at the moment the people of Benue spoke loud and clear during the last general elections that they preferred Governor Alia through their ballots and Agbese must have to wait for his time. The people have spoken through their ballots, and it’s time for Agbese to respect their decision,” he added.
