By MsughAondo Kertyo
The Benue State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has dismissed the allegation that the Gov Alia led administration had concluded plans to demolish its Secretariat in the state.
The Acting Chairman of CAN in Benue State, Rev Jonathan Terwase Ugbede, while reacting to the allegation on the social media and other platforms, debunked the rumor, arguing that the governor has no intention of destroying the association’s secretariat. He described it as the handiwork of some mischief makers.
The Clergy, who stated this in a statement, lauded Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, over his swift response to the speculation through his Commissioner of Information and Orientation, Hon Solomon Iorpev, who described the publication against the governor as malicious, false and baseless.
It could be recalled that the Commissioner of Information and Orientation, in a press statement, had disclosed that the governor was a proud product of the Church, and his administration has consistently demonstrated respect, support and partnership with religious institutions across Benue State, including CAN, insisting that no such plans had been conceived, discussed or contemplated by the government.
Rev Ugbede, acknowledged Governor Alia’s immeasurable contributions to the association’s programs, and activities, including his continued footing of medical bills for Christians in the state, who he said are now physically strong among others. He implored sponsors of such fake news to desist from fabricating stories capable of creating tension in the state.
He enjoined the political class to desist from the act of dragging the Church into politics. He admonished the Christian community in the state not to panic over the fake news, but disregard it and its sponsors as well as those spreading it, adding that the fabricated story was intended to create disunity and generate bad blood between the government and the Church.
The Acting Chairman, urged the Christian community in the state to Intensify prayers for the Governor, and continue to support him to achieve more for people of the state. He assured the governor that the Benue Church wasn’t affected by the fake news, adding that the Church is solidly behind him. He said the resolve of the Benue Church to support him has not changed.