Gov Alia Wasn’t Stoned By Youths, Benue Govt Debunks Reports

The Benue State government has denied allegations that youths threw objects at Governor Hyacinth Alia during his visit to Vaatia College in Makurdi.  Reports had emerged on Wednesday that youths stoned the governor while protesting over plans to bury their proprietor within the school premises in their community. The proprietor, Engr Vaatia, who died two days ago, was buried today. Sir Kula Tersoo, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, labeled the reports as untrue and aimed at tarnishing the governor’s image. Tersoo clarified that the governor’s purpose at Vaatia College was to address incidents of vandalism and theft, directing authorities to apprehend those responsible.  He emphasized that Governor Alia’s visit was uninterrupted, highlighting the governor’s track record of moving around the state without harassment. In urging media professionals to verify news sources before publication, Tersoo emphasized the need for accuracy and investigative reporting.  He condemned the “ill-intended” nature of the reports and stressed the importance of ensuring the truthfulness of news before dissemination.

Nigerian military denies receiving coup request, expresses commitment to democracy

In response to a misleading and concerning report, the Defence Headquarters has vehemently denied that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) received any solicitation to facilitate a change of leadership within the nation. The Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, said this in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja to clarify the situation. Gusau emphasized that at no point did the armed forces receive or issue any communication indicating support for a leadership alteration to any individual or group. He condemned the unfounded claims, attributing them to those with ulterior motives who harbour ill-will towards the nation. He asserted, “This statement appears to have originated from individuals who are not aligned with the nation’s well-being and progress. It is an unfortunate product of the imagination of a small faction that is dissatisfied with the advancements and prosperity of our beloved country.” The Defence Headquarters also sought to reaffirm the military’s staunch alignment with democratic principles and unwavering loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, who holds the position of President, Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The military’s steadfast commitment to upholding the constitution of the nation was also underscored by Brigadier-General Gusau. “We wish to underscore that the military is fully comfortable within the democratic framework and stands firm in its dedication to safeguarding the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Any suggestions to the contrary are baseless and misleading.” The statement further extended a stern caution to those disseminating false information. “We call upon those circulating such fabrications to cease immediately or be prepared to face legal consequences. Both the Military and other security agencies are actively monitoring such negative agents. Our collective responsibility is to bolster our democracy and foster unity,” he said. Gusau further urged the nation to collaborate in protecting the democratic values and progress that Nigeria has strived to achieve. The Defence Headquarters’ statement reflects the military’s firm commitment to democratic governance and its unwavering dedication to upholding the country’s constitutional integrity.