Alia rejects allegations of silence over Benue killings

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia, has dismissed allegations that he remained silent on the killings in Ayilamo community, Logo Local Government Area. The governor described the allegations as unfair and cheap blackmail, stating they were attempts by a struggling party to justify its likely defeat in the 2027 elections.

Governor Alia emphasized that criticism and accountability are vital elements of democracy and sound governance, but argued that political discussions and campaigns must be based on facts and an honest evaluation of records. He lamented the failures of past governors, Samuel Ortom and Michael Aondoakaa, who were in positions to address the issue but failed to do so.

The governor questioned why killings persisted during Ortom's administration, despite the "so-called signing of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Law," which the opposition now views as the sole solution to insecurity. He also accused the PDP government of operating a joint account system for local governments, a practice they now criticize, and blamed Aondoakaa for ignoring his godfather's opposition to granting local government autonomy.

Governor Alia stressed that the 2027 elections would not be determined by press releases, political theatrics, or partisan rhetoric, but by the electorate through the ballot box. He expressed confidence that on that day, his administration's records would speak louder than propaganda. According to the governor, Benue has moved past the agents of stagnation and is focusing on a future marked by development, investment, and progress.

Alia urged the public to disregard falsehoods and rejected the allegations of silence over Benue killings.