BENUE AVOID THE HIGH RATE OF DISINFORMATION AND FAKE NEWS AMONG THE APC OPPOSITION/MAIN OPPOSITION GROUPS IN BENUE STATE: A DELIBERATE ATTEMPT TO DISTRACT THE ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNOR ALIA

AVOID THE HIGH RATE OF DISINFORMATION AND FAKE NEWS AMONG THE APC OPPOSITION/MAIN OPPOSITION GROUPS IN BENUE STATE: A DELIBERATE ATTEMPT TO DISTRACT THE ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNOR ALIA.

By John M. Tondo. Editor.

In recent times in the political life of Benue State, disinformation and fake news have been introduced as new political strategies by opposition groups to deliberately hoodwink unsuspecting citizens and as well distract the government in power..

The reason for this ugly scenario is anchored on politics of hatred and bitterness.

A study of human psychology reveals that while some people celebrate other people's successes, some others, out of jealousy and envy, seek ways to condemn and undermine such successes and achievements. This is a clear case of what the opposition groups are currently doing in Benue State, using twin instruments of disinformation and fake news to peddle falsehood with the aim of diverting people's attention against the government in power and at the same time trivializing the many achievements of the 10-months-old administration. 

Considering the time frame spent in service by past administrations in Benue State and the few months spent by Governor Iormem Alia, there is absolutely no ground for comparison. However, because visionary leaders have no room for excuses as they are always proactive in all they do to achieve the needed result, a comparative study of Iormem Alia's administration and past administrations reveals that it is fair to say that in less than a year into his administration, Governor Iormem Alia has outperformed all the past leaders in the state put together, in many ramifications. 

Years of past leadership in Benue State cannot be better described except as years of executive display of leadership naivety, wastefulness, and intentional punishment of the innocent citizens of the state. The pragmatic leadership style of Iormem Alia's administration has therefore become a challenge to bitter souls who, rather than acknowledge his swift transformative projects and policies, have chosen in their bitterness to unjustly peddle lies against him and his administration – just to score some cheap political points. 

Consequently, the situation surrounding Iormem Alia as Governor of Benue State can be aptly described by this proverb illustrates the tendency for people, especially those who have an aversion for success when it is not their making, to cast aspersions on the success of others, attributing it to dubious means rather than acknowledging genuine hard work, brilliance, and accomplishment. Alia now finds himself in this predicament as he labours to rectify the shortcomings of past administrations in the state.

There is no gainsaying the fact that Benue State has long suffered from ineffective leadership, resulting in dilapidated infrastructure, unpaid salaries, and a general sense of neglect among its citizens. However, Iormem Alia's proactive and pragmatic approach to governance has led to significant improvements within a short while, which on one hand is garnering praise and admiration from the populace, and on another hand, has attracted jealousy and resentment from political adversaries seeking to undermine his reputation. This jealousy and bitterness are however expected because it is only a tree that bears good fruits that people throw stones at. 

Nonetheless, the rhetorical questions arise: should Iormem Alia be condemned for simply fulfilling his promises as Governor? Is it wrong for him to prioritize infrastructural development, ensure timely payment of salaries, and promote economic growth in Benue? If not for sheer jealousy, envy, and shameless means to justify years of mal administration, why is it that despite Alia's noble intentions, he still faces unwarranted criticisms and smear campaigns orchestrated by those threatened by his effectiveness?

As His Excellency Iormem Alia continues to face opposition from detractors and false narratives propagated by malicious actors, it is imperative to recognize his genuine commitment to serving the people of Benue State. While some may seek to diminish his accomplishments, the truth remains that Iormem Alia's leadership has brought very tangible and laudable benefits to the state, and his efforts should be better appreciated and celebrated rather than being undermined.

In the face of such adversities, Alia remains resolute in his dedication to uplifting Benue State and improving the lives of its citizens. His resilience and determination serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future, despite the challenges posed by his detractors. 

Ultimately, the legacy of Iormem Alia as the Governor of Benue State will be defined by his unwavering commitment to progress and prosperity for all.

Every well-meaning citizen and resident of the state is enjoined to disregard false narratives being peddled by agents of failed governments of the past who seek to hoodwink the unsuspecting masses into believing falsehood. If they do not possess any sense of shame or penitence, they should simply accuse the Governor as being the reason for their nonperformance and failures over these wasted years.

May BENUE State Succeed.

Mark Luper Jmac

Political Analysis.