Benue State Government has warned residents including public and private parastatals against using unapproved portraits of Governor Hyacinth Alia, in their offices.

In a statement on Monday, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, stated that the new official portrait had been unveiled, threatening that defaulters of the directive would be punished.

The statement noted, “The office of the governor, with dignity, once again announced the unveiling of the official portrait of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. The only authorized version of the governor’s portrait is the one shown in this release. Take note that the use of any unofficial portrait may result in sanctions, including but not limited to fines or other penalties. Operational immediately, all citizens, organisations and MDAs are requested to cease the use of any portrait of the governor that does not originate from this official release.”

According to the state government, the portrait produced by an esteemed photographer captured more the picture of the governor with his real facial looks that epitomises the essence of leadership and commitment to residents of the state.

It stated that the directive was aimed at ensuring that the dignity and integrity of the governor were preserved and respected.

“The official portrait is on display at various state buildings and is available for public viewing on the official state website,” it added.

Residents, including business owners, unions, and organisations, were therefore urged to cooperate and embrace the governor’s leadership.