The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, and Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, have shared opposing views on the recent wave of violence in Benue State, where over 80 people were killed in just five days.
Speaking during a television interview and during Ribadu’s visit to the state, Governor Alia said Benue is under “constant siege” from what he described as terrorists and armed militias. He claimed these attackers are not Nigerians and speak unfamiliar languages, suggesting they may be foreign nationals.
“These are not our traditional herders,” the governor said. “These people come fully armed. They don’t look or sound Nigerian. Some locals even believe they’re from Mali and other places.”
Governor Alia said the attacks have been devastating, especially in the Sankera region, which includes Ukum, Katsina-Ala, and Logo LGAs. He described the killings as “highly coordinated” and claimed the attackers may be operating from hideouts in neighbouring Taraba, Nasarawa, and even Cameroon.
As part of efforts to fight back, the state government has purchased 100 Hilux vehicles and 600 motorcycles to support security agencies. Still, the governor insists more help is needed from the federal government.
“We need urgent intervention. This is a new and dangerous phase,” he said.
However, NSA Ribadu disagreed with some of Alia’s claims. Speaking during a condolence visit to Benue, Ribadu acknowledged that the security challenges were serious but stressed that “no part of Nigeria is controlled by terrorists.”
He urged Nigerians to be patient, saying the federal government is doing its best.
“Many countries around the world are facing the same issues. We are not alone,” Ribadu said. “The situation is difficult, but we’re not losing the fight.”
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The clash in opinions comes amid worsening Benue killings and insecurity in the Sankera axis, where dozens of communities have been destroyed and thousands displaced. Traditional rulers and local leaders say their people are under attack and are calling on the federal government to do more.
Chief Orkaa Kaave, traditional head of Ukum, said invaders are trying to take over their ancestral lands.
“They come with AK-47s and cattle but no families. This is not normal herding,” he said. “We cannot live with murderers.”
In Gwer West LGA, over 598,000 people have reportedly been displaced, while in Agatu, traditional ruler Chief Godwin Onah said more than 2,800 people have been killed since the crisis began.
Frustrated local farmers are now calling for permission to defend themselves.
“If the government won’t protect us, we will protect ourselves,” said Adah Eddy, a farmer from Apa LGA.
Meanwhile, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) has distanced itself from the violence, calling the killings “pure criminality” and saying its members are also victims.
Experts warn that unless the government acts quickly, the Benue killings and insecurity could spark a humanitarian and food crisis.
The current violence has roots in the long-running conflict tied to the late militia leader Terwase “Gana” Akwaza, whose deadly legacy still lingers in the region through splinter groups.
Despite past amnesty offers, including one renewed by Governor Alia in 2023, none of the militants have surrendered—raising serious concerns about the future of peace in the area.
As Benue continues to battle insecurity, many residents say it’s time for the country to face the hard truth and take decisive action before more lives are lost.
