Benue Academics Disown Petition Against Governor Alia

A coalition of academics in Benue State has publicly disowned a petition against Governor Hyacinth Alia, which was signed by 36 individuals and circulated on February 27, 2026. The group, which includes notable figures such as Godwin Ityoachimin and Joseph Waya, expressed strong disapproval of the petition, labeling it a politically motivated attack rather than a genuine concern for the community.

They emphasized their commitment to truth and development in Benue State and criticized the petition for misrepresenting the governor's statements, particularly regarding a cultural and religious event. The group asserted that the petition's authors were politically affiliated and aimed to undermine the governor's administration, which they described as anti-corruption and focused on community welfare.

They clarified that Governor Alia's remarks were taken out of context and misinterpreted to create outrage, asserting that the petition was a continuation of political maneuvering against him.