Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has responded to a House of Representatives Member, Phillip Agbese, urging him to focus on his legislative duties rather than criticising the state's administration.

At a press conference in Makurdi on Monday, Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, condemned Agbese's recent criticism of his administration.

The governor called on Agbese, who represents Okpokwu/Ado/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, to cease sowing discord and concentrate on his legislative responsibilities.

Alia recounted incidents, including Agbese's removal of his official portrait from his Abuja office and a viral video in which Agbese labelled his government a "den of demons".

Kula added that Agbese claimed in the media that Governor Alia skipped a peace meeting called by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, although no such meeting took place.

The statement reads in part: "We are concerned because Agbese is a citizen of this state and his behaviour is concerning. Agbese needs to be called to order. Engaging with Reverend Father Alia in this manner will not be beneficial. Alia is not interested in conflict but will defend himself if provoked.

"Agbese should focus on fulfilling his mandate and leave Governor Alia out of his political disputes. There can only be one governor in a state. Those trying to stir conflict should understand that Alia remains focused and undistracted."

As of the time of this report, Agbese had not responded to attempts to contact him for comment.