Benue LG polls: Alia govt breaks silence on viral ‘rigging video’

The Benue State Government has expressed deep concern over a circulating video that allegedly shows individuals thumb printing en masse for a particular political party during the recent local government elections.

In a press statement, the government denounced the video as a staged attempt by political opponents to discredit the transparent and peaceful elections, which were overseen by the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC).

According to Chief Press Secretary Sir Tersoo Kula, the video is part of a wider strategy by certain individuals to gain political advantage by undermining the administration of Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.

Kula stressed that there is no credible evidence linking the content of the video to the governor or his administration, and that prior intelligence had revealed plans by opposition figures to cast doubt on the electoral process.

The statement below;

It is with great concern that we address the recent video circulating in connection with the local government polls held last Saturday.

This video, which has been used to ridicule the Government of Benue State and the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, is nothing more than an unfortunate attempt by desperate individuals to score cheap political points.

Upon thorough review, it is clear that the video is an obvious stage-managed drama, orchestrated by those who seek to undermine the good governance of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.

We found no credible evidence linking this fabricated content to the governor or his administration.

Prior to the elections, credible sources informed us of underhand plans by some opposition elements to discredit the electoral process. This video appears to be one of their tactics to cast a shadow over what was a transparent and violence-free election.

It is important to note that this election marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time in many years that voters in Benue had access to ballot papers for local government elections.

For the first time in Benue state, since the final resurgence of democracy in Nigeria, BSIEC recruited and meticulously trained all adhoc staff for the polls. There was also massive deployment of adhoc staff and sensitive and nonsensitive materials distributed in the full glare of the media and political party agents.

This achievement should be celebrated rather than tarnished.

We urge journalists and media outlets, particularly Arise TV, which aired the misleading video and accompanying commentary to uphold the ethics of their profession.

As the light of society, it is crucial to cross-check facts and avoid being swayed by mere spectacle before going public.

We remain committed to transparency and accountability in governance and will not be deterred by attempts to mislead the public.