Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has clarified that his remarks at an event organized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on October 19, 2025, in Abuja were misconstrued.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dr. Peter Egbodo, the government explained that the governor’s comments were intended to emphasize that the ongoing killings in the state should not be viewed solely through a religious lens.
The statement reads:
“For clarity, the governor’s remarks were not an attempt to minimize the harsh realities on the ground or dismiss the pain of families who have lost loved ones.
“His Excellency fully understands the weight of every life lost in Benue State and continues to approach the state’s security challenges with the urgency and seriousness they require.
“It is important to note that his position—that the killings should not be framed strictly as religious—was made to promote accurate reporting, responsible public discourse, and effective intervention.
“Misrepresenting the nature of the crisis could undermine the multi-sectoral strategies currently being implemented.
“What the governor intended to convey is that the conflict is multifaceted, involving criminality, land disputes, and targeted violence that require strategic, intelligence-based responses beyond religious classifications.
“This clarification does not suggest indifference to the suffering of Christian communities or any other groups affected by these brutal attacks.
“On the contrary, the governor remains deeply concerned about the safety and dignity of all residents—Christians, Muslims, traditional worshippers, and every law-abiding citizen.
“In recent times, the governor has intensified coordination with security agencies, supported displaced persons through relief and resettlement efforts, advocated for greater security intervention at national and international levels, and initiated long-term measures to address the root causes of violence.
“He continues to mourn with affected families, visit impacted communities, and deploy all available government resources to restore peace.
“The administration acknowledges the trauma experienced by communities under attack and remains committed to protecting every life without bias or exception.
“We urge the public to interpret the governor’s remarks within the broader context of his consistent commitment to securing Benue State.
“This government stands firmly with the people and will not relent until the cycle of violence is completely halted.”
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