The Benue State Government has accused opposition politicians of exploiting the recent armed herders’ attacks on communities in the state for partisan political gain, urging political leaders to prioritise unity and support for victims over electioneering.
The government said attempts to politicise the security situation were insensitive to the plight of affected communities and could undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace, insisting that the killings and displacement demanded compassion, collective action and practical support for victims rather than political point-scoring.
The position was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday, by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Tersoo Kula, who described the alleged actions of the opposition as “cynical” and “heartless”, saying the security challenges confronting the state required cooperation instead of partisan rhetoric.
According to the statement, the government accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Herman Hembe, of making public comments aimed at scoring political points rather than supporting efforts to restore peace.
The government maintained that Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration has consistently supported security agencies through the provision of logistics, intelligence sharing, personnel motivation and collaboration with local vigilante groups to protect communities and strengthen security across the state.
It said security agencies had acknowledged the administration’s support, adding that the government’s efforts should be assessed based on facts rather than what it described as politically motivated accusations.
The government also called on security agencies to investigate allegations that some individuals might be sponsoring violence for political advantage, including claims involving Aondoakaa and Hembe.
It maintained that anyone found culpable should be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Benue State Government appealed to political leaders, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, religious leaders, the media and residents to reject the politicisation of the security crisis and work collectively towards achieving lasting peace in the state.