By Amos Aar
A PUBLIC disagreement has arisen between Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and former Chairman of the Nigerian Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, regarding the governor’s assertion that the herders responsible for violent attacks in Benue are foreigners from Mali.
Prof. Odinkalu contested Governor Alia’s claim, questioning its geographical and linguistic accuracy.
He noted that Hausa-speaking individuals predominantly originate from Niger rather than Mali, implying that the governor’s statements may be an attempt to shift accountability.
Odinkalu further suggested that such remarks demonstrate a lack of empathy for the victims of the attacks.
In response, Governor Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, issued a statement last weekend defending the governor’s position and criticizing Odinkalu’s remarks as insensitive.
Titled: “Chidi Odinkalu’s Scorn Toward Victims of Benue Attacks is Unfortunate,” the statement expressed dismay over what it described as Odinkalu’s dismissive attitude toward those affected by the violence.
Kula emphasized that the primary focus should remain on addressing the suffering of Benue’s citizens rather than engaging in criticism of the governor’s approach.
“Benue State, renowned as the Food Basket of the Nation, continues to endure severe devastation due to relentless attacks by armed herders,” Kula stated.
The statement further clarified that Governor Alia has repeatedly acknowledged the challenges in providing adequate logistical and manpower support to federal security agencies.
Additionally, the governor has highlighted the involvement of criminal elements among Fulani herdsmen, some of whom have reportedly enlisted mercenaries to facilitate land seizures. Kula stressed that this distinction is crucial, as it underscores that not all members of an ethnic group should be held responsible for the actions of a few.
“At this critical juncture, the paramount concern should be the ongoing terrorist attacks against the people of Benue,” Kula asserted.
He added: “Whether the perpetrators are from Mali, Niger, or elsewhere, the priority must be empathy and constructive solutions rather than divisive criticism.”
He expressed disappointment that public figures like Odinkalu, who should stand in solidarity with victims, have instead chosen to engage in what he termed “performative critique,” diverting attention from the urgent need for resolution.
The Benue State Government called for a collective effort toward healing and implementing effective measures to curb the violence.
It warned against ethnic stereotyping, noting that such generalizations exacerbate divisions rather than foster solutions.
Meanwhile, Governor Alia’s characterization of the assailants as foreign militants has drawn mixed reactions among Benue residents.
Some have questioned the distinction, arguing that the governor’s primary duty is to protect all citizens, regardless of the attackers’ origins.
“If the governor implies that he lacks the authority to mobilize military action against foreign aggressors, has he formally sought the president’s intervention?” asked a concerned Benue citizen who spoke anonymously. “The governor must take decisive action before the situation worsens.”
The government reiterated its commitment to pursuing lasting peace while urging unity and constructive dialogue in addressing the crisis.
