By Joe Ngbede

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has once again waded into stormy political waters with a decision that is sparking fierce criticism and raising fresh questions about his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC). For his second-year anniversary in office, Alia has reportedly hired Labaran Maku—an aggrieved figure within the opposition and a known coalition stakeholder aligned against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT)—to lead media consultancy efforts.

The move is seen by many as a calculated provocation, deepening speculation about Alia’s partisan direction, internal party discipline, and long-term political alignment, particularly as national APC structures rally around President Tinubu’s agenda. Critics argue that the optics of appointing a known opposition figure for such a high-profile assignment not only betray the party’s collective stance but also expose growing internal fractures within the APC leadership in Benue.

In what some have described as a political misstep bordering on going berserk, Governor Alia’s selection of Maku—a controversial figure who symbolically represents opposition to the current federal leadership—has left both party faithful and observers questioning his strategic clarity.

Labaran Maku, a former Minister of Information under the Jonathan administration and a long-standing PDP figure, is not only politically misaligned with the APC but is also believed to be nurturing ties with the ADC—a party Governor Alia has repeatedly been linked to in ongoing speculations about a 2027 switch. For many within the APC fold, this appointment is not merely inappropriate; it’s provocative.

“This isn’t just about hiring a consultant,” said a senior APC stakeholder who requested anonymity. “This is about sending a message. And the message Governor Alia is sending is one of disregard, not just for party structures, but for party values.”

The timing of the move, just as tensions escalate over Alia’s strained relationship with APC stakeholders and amid calls from within the party’s national league for his expulsion, only deepens suspicion over his long-term political intentions.

The decision has also triggered widespread dismay among Benue’s media professionals. Several practitioners and communication strategists in the state view Alia’s selection of Maku as a vote of no confidence in local capacity.

“There are dozens of competent, apolitical media professionals within Benue who are capable of designing and executing a world-class anniversary communication strategy,” said a veteran journalist based in Makurdi. “Bringing in Maku not only undermines our professional community but also fuels speculation about deeper partisan calculations.”

More pointedly, the governor’s move appears to sideline his existing media team. The likes of Tersoo Kula, his Chief Press Secretary, and Solomon Iorpev, his Special Adviser on Media and ICT, are now seen by some observers as having been publicly undermined by the outsourcing of such a critical milestone to an outsider. That perception is rapidly breeding internal tensions and public embarrassment for an administration already navigating growing political scrutiny.

Critics have also raised ethical red flags regarding the use of public funds to contract a politically affiliated media figure. At a time when public confidence in governance is fragile and scrutiny of government spending is intensifying, the optics of awarding such a strategic assignment to a potential opponent—or at the very least, a non-aligned actor—may carry reputational risks that outweigh the short-term communication gains.

“Even if Maku has the technical competence, the question remains: is this appointment in the public interest or party interest?” queried a media rights advocate in Abuja. “You don’t appoint a referee with a club jersey under his coat.”

For critics of Governor Alia within the APC—particularly those aligned with the party’s disciplinary and reformist platforms—this latest development is not isolated. It follows what they describe as a pattern of disregard for APC structures, increasing alignment with non-APC figures, and persistent speculation about future defections. The League had earlier issued a public call for his expulsion, citing his absence at key party events, refusal to participate in reconciliation efforts, and consistent marginalization of party stakeholders.

With this latest appointment, that call appears to have found fresh validation in the eyes of many.

As the Governor prepares to mark his second year in office, he faces a critical question: can he continue to govern from within a party whose core structures and values he appears to be drifting away from? Or is this latest move another stepping stone toward a broader realignment?

In a vibrant celebration of fashion and entrepreneurship, Lasims Emporium officially opened its walk-in fabric store on 57 Ogudu Road, off Ojota, by New Kosofe Local Government, bringing a splash of color, texture, and elegance to Lagos’s bustling fashion scene.

The CEO, Mrs. Simisola Adewole, expressed her excitement at the grand opening, describing the store as a dream birthed from passion and purpose. Initially run as an online business, Lasims Emporium transitioned to a physical store in response to growing customer demand for an in-person shopping experience.

“Fabrics are more than just materials—they’re a fashion statement, a means of expression,” Mrs. Adewole shared.

“This store is for everyone who desires quality, uniqueness, and style. We wanted a space where people can connect directly with what they wear—from cotton to vintage, lace, Ankara, and beyond.”

Lasims Emporium offers a wide selection of premium fabrics for both men and women, sourced from reputable local and international vendors. Whether it’s classic cotton, luxurious lace, or rare vintage designs, the store guarantees high-quality pieces at competitive prices.

Speaking on what sets Lasims Emporium apart, according to Mrs. Adewole, it’s the uniqueness of the fabrics: “Our fabrics speak for themselves. When you wear Lasims, compliments follow. That’s a promise we stand by.”

In addition to the walk-in location, Lasims Emporium provides nationwide delivery and is set to expand with a new branch coming soon in Ikeja, making access to exquisite fabrics even easier for customers across Lagos.

Fashion lovers, designers, and stylists are invited to explore the elegance and originality that Lasims Emporium brings to the fabric market.

Visit the store at 57 Ogudu Road, Off Ojota, By New Kosofe Local Government, Lagos, or connect with Lasims Emporium online to place orders and stay updated.

Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has called for greater unity, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in Taraba State, with a special appeal on behalf of the Tiv people.

Chief Aondoakaa made the call yesterday during a grand civic reception organized by the people of Southern Taraba in honor of the Executive Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, Chief Aondoakaa urged all ethnic communities in the state to live together in harmony and treat one another with mutual respect and understanding.

“The Tiv people in Taraba are your brothers and sisters,” Aondoakaa said. “We must remove the barriers that divide us and focus on what unites us. Without peace and brotherhood, there can be no lasting progress.”

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria condemned the recent attacks on communities in both Benue and Taraba States, Aondoakaa described the violence as “unfortunate and alarming.” He attributed the persistent insecurity to attempts by armed herdsmen to take control of the region’s fertile lands.

“The lands in Benue and Taraba are blessed with fertility, and that has unfortunately made them a target,” he remarked. “But these attacks are not just on land, they are attacks on our people, our way of life, and our future. We must stand united to defend our communities.”
He emphasized that only through unity between Benue and Taraba can the people resist and overcome what he called a “common enemy.”

Governor Kefas, in his response, thanked the people of Southern Taraba for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace and harmony across the state. He applauded Chief Aondoakaa for his words and acknowledged the importance of solidarity in confronting the region’s challenges.

The event, held in Wukari, brought together traditional rulers including the Tor Tiv HRM. Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, political figures, community leaders, and a broad cross-section of the populace from all works of life to celebrate the leadership of Governor Kefas and reaffirm their commitment to unity in the state.