In a show of grassroots support, pensioners and motorcycle riders in Benue state have pooled resources to purchase Governor Hyacinth Alia’s 2027 re-election forms.
The groups, comprising retirees and members of the Benue State Motorcycle Hire Association (BEMOA), raised ₦50 million to secure the governor’s nomination, a move described as “novel” and symbolic of a shifting political culture where ordinary citizens directly fund their leaders’ campaigns.
Speaking Saturday inside Government House during the presentation of the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to the governor, Comrade Michael Vembe, representing pensioners, praised Alia’s commitment to timely pension payments, noting that his administration had restored dignity to retirees.
“After waiting six years under previous governments, I now receive my pension by the 22nd of every month. He brought life back to old bones,” Vembe said.
The motorcycle association led by Comrade Terfa Aha echoed his sentiment, highlighting improved infrastructure as a key reason for their support.
The state President BEMOA also commended the administration’s road projects, which have reduced accidents and cut operational costs for riders.
Governor Alia, visibly moved, described the gesture as “one of the most humbling moments of my life.”
He recalled his early days in office, when he and his deputy lived in guest houses to prioritise civil servants’ salaries.
“If you want to keep everybody happy, you should be selling ice cream. Leadership requires tough decisions for the common good,” he remarked.
Alia pointed to reforms such as tuition-free education from Primary 1 to JSS3, consistent salary and pension payments, and the establishment of Zeva Brewery and fruit concentrate factories among others as evidence of his administration’s “poverty-fighting” agenda.
He acknowledged resistance from entrenched interests but insisted his government was determined to “treat the cancerous wounds” of the state’s economy.
He said the collective action by pensioners and okada riders was a signal and a strong desire among Benue’s grassroots for his continuity as governor of Benue to complete the good work his administration has initiated.
