By Dan Zendesha 

Hon. Ityav Akume Raphael, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Media (Judicial), has publicly alleged harassment and intimidation over a vehicle reportedly presented to him by the Benue State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).
The complaint followed a road accident in Makurdi involving the vehicle, reigniting questions about the ownership and payment status of the car.

Hon. Ityav Akume Raphael, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Media (Judicial), has narrated his ordeal following a motor accident involving a vehicle he says was presented to him by the Benue State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).

According to a Facebook post by Raphael, the accident occurred on June 10, 2026, opposite Nze Oil near Food Domain in Makurdi. He alleged that a motorcycle rider collided with his vehicle after mistakenly assuming he was making a turn.

Raphael stated that while the rider escaped serious injury, a female passenger sustained injuries and was immediately taken to the hospital for treatment. He said he personally covered the medical expenses incurred.

Beyond the accident itself, Raphael used the opportunity to raise concerns about the status of the vehicle involved. He claimed the car was presented to him by ALGON Benue under the leadership of former chairman Maurice Orwough but alleged that payment for the vehicle was never completed.

According to him, the vehicle will mark one year in his possession on June 12, 2026, yet the dealer continues to demand payment and has allegedly threatened to repossess it.

Raphael further claimed that despite interventions by ALGON officials and witnesses, including Hon. Gabriel Shange, the dispute remains unresolved. He said he recently raised the matter with the current ALGON chairman at Government House, Makurdi, and provided photographs and video evidence from the vehicle presentation ceremony.

Expressing disappointment, Raphael questioned why he should be subjected to repeated pressure over a vehicle he maintains was officially presented to him.

The issue has since generated reactions on social media, where commentators have debated responsibility for payment and the treatment of public officials who receive gifts or official recognitions.

As of the time of this report, neither the Benue State Government nor ALGON Benue had issued an official response to Raphael's claims.