The Benue State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, has made a passionate appeal to youths in the state, urging them not to partake in the planned October 1 protest. The bishop’s call was conveyed by his vice-chairman, Jonathan Ugbede, during an interdenominational church service held on Sunday at The Apostolic Church in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. The service was organized to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.
In his address, Bishop Anagbe commended the state governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, for what he described as a transformative leadership that has elevated the state from “slavery to independence.” He praised the governor’s achievements in the past year, noting that Governor Alia’s leadership has brought significant changes and hope to the people of Benue.
According to the CAN chairman, “The government of Alia symbolizes independence. He has shifted the misnomer of the past to celebration.” He emphasized that Governor Alia’s efforts had restored a sense of pride and progress to the state, which had been grappling with various challenges before his tenure.
Bishop Anagbe’s central message was to discourage the youth from joining the October 1 protest, which has been gaining momentum in some parts of the country. “I appeal to our youths in Benue State to remain indoors on October 1st and not participate in the planned protest. They should replicate the peace they adopted during the End Bad Government protest,” he said, referencing the state’s calm response to previous nationwide protests. “Benue was one of the states that did not participate in that protest, and I urge you to continue this path of peace by locking yourselves indoors and ignoring the October 1 protest.”
In addition to urging restraint, the bishop called on the Church to support Governor Alia’s administration, reminding the congregation that the governor, being a priest, has a unique bond with the faith community. “If Alia fails, the Church has failed because the governor is a priest. We should continue to support him so that he can succeed,” he added.
Speaking at the same event, Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Deborah Aber, also addressed the congregation, calling on the Church to continue preaching peace as the nation navigates its current challenges. The governor’s representative reiterated the administration’s commitment to providing good governance, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the welfare of the people.
Aber further reassured the people of Benue that the Alia administration would not waver in its mission to deliver developmental projects that will uplift the state. “We are committed to fulfilling our promises and ensuring that Benue experiences sustained progress in all sectors,” she affirmed.
The interdenominational service was attended by religious leaders, government officials, and members of the public who joined in the prayers for peace and unity in Nigeria, especially as the country celebrates 64 years of independence amidst socio-political and economic challenges.
