Makurdi, Benue State – The Kunav Block in the academic community of North-East Senatorial District has dismissed a petition against Governor Hyacinth Alia by some of his kinsmen from Vandeikya, describing it as unsubstantiated and politically motivated.

The group, led by Professor Daniel Chile, spoke during a press conference held at Triple “M” Apartments in Makurdi. Responding to the allegations in the petition—addressed to the Catholic Dioceses of Makurdi, Gboko, Otukpo, Katsina-Ala, and other high-profile offices—Professor Chile described the claims as unfounded.

He noted that the six gubernatorial aspirants from Vandeikya, including Governor Alia, are free to contest for the governorship, and casting aspersions on their kinsman is unfortunate and unnecessary.

According to him, the petition, dated 27 February 2026, accused Governor Alia of desecrating the pulpit and using religious platforms for political purposes. The academics, however, insisted that the petition was “a carefully scripted political manifesto disguised as a religious complaint.”

They stressed that Governor Alia’s remarks at All Saints Catholic Church, Tsenge, on 18 January 2026, were misrepresented, noting that Tiv rhetorical expressions such as “biting fingers” and “beheading” are cultural metaphors for resilience and vigilance, not incitements to violence.

The group also criticized the petitioners’ track records in public office, highlighting instances of incompetence, corruption, and poor leadership, which they argued render the petitioners unfit for governorship.

Highlighting Governor Alia’s achievements, the academics cited over 570km of road construction. Establishment of the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, the creation of new industries, including the Food Basket Brewery, and improvements in healthcare delivery, workers’ welfare, and flood control

The Kunav academics appealed to Catholic Bishops to exercise caution in considering the petition, emphasizing that the church should remain neutral in political matters.

They further called on the public to ignore mischief-makers peddling unsubstantiated claims and reaffirmed their support for Governor Alia in his pursuit of further developmental initiatives.