BENUE STATE – Governor Hyacinth Alia has moved to clarify his recent statements regarding the persistent killings in Benue State, following a public backlash that described his initial comments as insensitive to the plight of affected communities.
The Governor’s earlier remarks, made at a forum in Abuja, had sparked widespread criticism, with many Nigerians expressing frustration on social media and radio stations. Some called for ecclesiastical sanctions against the Catholic priest-turned-politician, while others urged Benue residents to vote him out in the next election cycle.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kulas, Governor Alia asserted that his comments had been misinterpreted and were never intended to downplay the severity of the violence.
“It is important for the public to understand that my administration is fully aware of the pain our people are going through. Any suggestion that I attempted to downplay the killings is incorrect,” the Governor stated.
He explained that his initial position was meant to emphasize the need for coordinated security operations and accurate reporting, rather than to undermine the suffering of victims.
The clarification comes amid calls from various quarters for the Governor to exercise the restraint expected of a religious leader. Many Nigerians had argued that his background as a Catholic priest should inform a more compassionate and measured public response.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing lives and property, noting that the state government has strengthened its collaboration with security agencies to ensure prompt responses to attacks. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to work with local communities to enhance intelligence gathering.
The Governor appealed for calm and unity among residents, assuring that the state would continue to push for stronger federal support, including increased military deployment to restore peace in troubled areas.
While several socio-cultural groups had earlier criticized Alia for what they described as a “soft stance” on the killings, some community leaders have now urged stakeholders to prioritize collective action over political rhetoric following the Governor’s clarification.
It remains to be seen whether the statement will fully assuage public anger, but the administration has reiterated its commitment to ending the cycle of violence and restoring lasting peace across Benue State.
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