The Benue State Council of Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has distanced itself from a purported protest against Governor Hyacinth Alia by a group that calls itself “Concerned Pensioners,” saying the protesters were hirelings and not members of the union.
The group staged a protest on Wednesday in Makurdi, claiming it regretted the decision to purchase a nomination form for Governor Hyacinth Alia.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Benue State Chairman of the NUP, Comrade Michael Vembe, described the protesters as impostors and urged Governor Alia and members of the public to disregard the protesters and their demands.
Comrade Vembe categorically stated that the union was not part of the decision to purchase a nomination form for Governor Hyacinth Alia.
He said the purported group of pensioners had earlier rejected the decision to purchase a nomination form for the governor and made its objection known through both print and electronic media. He therefore wondered why the group would claim to regret an action it did not take.
Vembe denounced the group, describing it as illegal, and called on security agencies to deal with its members accordingly.
He called on pensioners in the state to disregard the antics of the group and remain calm, noting that the NUP is negotiating with the state government over unpaid inherited arrears. He added that the government has initiated the process of payment, which will soon be implemented.
Comrade Vembe pledged the NUP’s sustained loyalty and full support for the re-election bid of Governor Hyacinth Alia in the 2027 general elections.