‘I Want to See Gov Alia Before I Die’ – First Republic Senator Suemo Chia Makes Emotional Plea

Elder statesman and one of Nigeria’s surviving First Republic senators, Senator Suemo Chia, has made a heartfelt public appeal to meet Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, expressing a deep desire to offer his counsel before his passing.

The emotional request came during a thanksgiving mass held at NKST Church, High Level, Makurdi, to mark the second anniversary of Governor Alia’s administration.

Senator Chia, now in his 80s, was seen seated quietly at the church entrance, hoping for an opportunity to meet with the governor. However, due to strict security measures and the overwhelming number of attendees, he was unable to gain access.

“I cannot see well again,” he said in a frail but resolute voice. “I have come to see Alia. I saw him once, and when I tried to visit him at the Government House, they blocked me—as if I was seeking a political appointment.”

The former senator emphasized that his visit was motivated not by political ambition but by a sense of duty to offer wise counsel to the sitting governor.

“I want to offer my advice to him before I die,” he declared, underscoring the urgency of his appeal.