Governor Gabriel Suswam of Benue on Sunday pleaded with the civil expectations.
Suswam made the plea at the inter-denominational valedictory thanksgiving service in his honour at the Chapel of Grace, Government House, Makurdi. “Please forgive me for my inability to meet up with your expectations as the governor of Benue State.
“But always remember that I had good intentions for civil servants in the state as shown in the 100 per cent salary increment I approved when I took over in 2007.
“It is not my making to owe staff salaries but due to the economic challenges in the country, I have no option but to leave behind a lot of challenges for the new government.
“However, when the new governor takes over, you will clearly understand that the financial challenges does not end with me,” he said.
He further pleaded with his family members for the actions and inactions he might have taken against their will, explaining that he was only carrying out his duties as the governor of the state.
The governor commended the state legislature and the judiciary for their support and the cordial relationship that existed between them.
Suswam commended the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for providing the needed platform for him to actualise his political ambition starting from the House of Representatives and as a governor.
He denied media publications that the party lost elections due to bad leadership, explaining that it was only natural for a party to rest after 16 years of being in power.
The governor commended his deputy for his loyalty and the government house staff for their support throughout his administration.
Earlier in his sermon, the President of NKST, Dr Ayohor Ateh, urged the people not to be afraid of the incoming administration for fear of being sacked or punished but have faith and trust in God.
Ateh charged the congregation to always rely on God, adding that many people were unnecessarily unrealistic.
Reading from Psalm 124 in the Holy Bible, the cleric urged the people to continue to pray for the governor and the state.