A fresh wave of controversy has erupted in Benue State after Governor Hyacinth Alia, a Catholic priest-turned-politician, publicly stated that there is no genocide taking place in the state.
A remark that has drawn sharp criticism from some community voices and religious faithful.
The reaction gained traction after a strongly worded message, purportedly from a Catholic parishioner identifying as Chimamda, condemned the governor’s comments and expressed deep disappointment over what was described as an attempt to downplay the suffering of affected communities.
In the message, the writer said they were “confused and disappointed” that a Catholic priest could make such a statement on camera, adding that the comments felt inconsistent with the moral responsibilities associated with the priesthood.
The writer went further to say they would no longer recognize Governor Alia as a priest in a personal capacity.
While the critique accused the governor of minimising the severity of the security situation, it also expressed anguish over ongoing attacks and displacement in Benue communities, calling for honesty and accountability from public officials.
Governor Alia has previously argued that security challenges in Benue were complex and required coordinated intervention, insisting that rhetoric should not inflame tensions.
His latest remarks, however, have intensified debate over how authorities characterise the violence that has afflicted Benue for years.
Community groups, religious leaders, and civil society organisations continued to call for increased protection for rural populations, transparent reporting of attacks, and stronger collaboration between state and federal authorities to curb escalating insecurity.
The exchange reflects broader national tensions over how violence in various regions is described, addressed, and politically interpreted especially in communities that feel overlooked or misunderstood.
