The Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Benue Chapter, has rejected suggestions for emergency rule in the state. The group believes such calls are unnecessary and could worsen the situation.
Archbishop Alexander Nyoonkyegh, the State Overseer of the conference, made this known in Makurdi on Saturday. He said Governor Hyacinth Alia is a man of faith and deserves the backing of spiritual leaders.
“We will not support emergency rule in Benue. We must stand by our brother and help him succeed,” he said.
Some bishops had earlier requested emergency rule due to rising insecurity in Benue State. However, the Charismatic Bishops believe this is not the solution.
“Let’s Build Unity, Not Division” — Bishop Urges Clergy and Citizens
Archbishop Nyoonkyegh stressed that unity is more important than panic. He warned that emergency rule could lead to the appointment of an outsider to govern the state.
“We cannot continue to talk about military takeover or emergency rule in Benue. We are not even sure that a Benue son will be appointed as the sole administrator,” he said.
He gave an example of Rivers State, where a sole administrator appointed was not from the state.
Instead, he wants citizens and clergy members to support Governor Alia’s leadership. The bishop also stated that the church is bound to honor authority as instructed by the Bible.
“And the Bible says we must be submissive to the authorities. Yes, we are prophets, but we are submissive to the authorities here on earth too,” he said.
He described Governor Alia as a “brother in the vineyard” who must be encouraged, not pulled down.
“Fr Alia is Trying, Let’s Encourage Him,” Nyoonkyegh Says
The bishop acknowledged that insecurity remains a serious challenge. However, he praised the governor’s visible efforts in tackling the problem.
“Apart from issues of insecurity, which he is trying, and we are seeing some of his efforts, what fundamental offence has he committed?” he asked.
Nyoonkyegh also pointed out that development is gradually happening across the state. He encouraged people to appreciate visible progress.
“What we need here is development, and the governor is developing the state, so what else can we ask for?” he said.
Bishop Applauds President Tinubu’s Support for Benue State
Archbishop Nyoonkyegh appreciated President Bola Tinubu for taking steps to restore peace in Benue.
He said the president’s directive asking the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, to relocate to the state has made a positive impact.
“We cried with faith in God, and he is hearing our prayers. Since the arrival of the Chief of Army, we have not heard of any further attack on our people. Let the peace be maintained,” he stated.
He concluded by calling on fellow bishops, politicians, and the public to pray for peace and progress in Benue State.
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