The Chief Press Secretary to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, Tersoo Kula, has hit back at former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso over his recent criticism of Governor Alia.
Kula described Kwankwaso’s comments as “unfortunate and unwarranted”, accusing the former governor of interfering in Benue’s internal affairs rather than addressing political challenges in Kano.
Kwankwaso had criticised Alia over the disruption of Peter Obi’s recent visit to Benue, describing the incident as “unfortunate and unnecessary”. He also commented on the reported relationship between Governor Alia and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Responding, Kula said the Benue government believed Kwankwaso’s criticism was connected to the controversy surrounding Obi’s visit, alleging that the trip had not been properly coordinated with the state government.
He further accused those behind the controversy of attempting to portray Alia negatively, while insisting that the governor’s mandate came from the people of Benue and should be respected regardless of political differences.
Kula also challenged Kwankwaso to concentrate on Kano politics, arguing that the former governor had enough political issues in his home state requiring his attention.
“Kwankwaso should face Kano politics,” Kula said, while questioning his party’s performance in recent by-elections in Kano. He urged the former governor to “offer ideas, not insults” and allow the people of Benue to determine their political future.
The exchange comes amid heightened political tensions following the controversy surrounding Obi’s September visit to Benue and wider disagreements involving Governor Alia and other political figures in the state. Accounts of whether the state government was adequately notified ahead of Obi’s visit have also been contested.
