David Akachukwu
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A new round of public outrage has erupted over how Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, handled the recent deadly incident in Yelewata, located in Guma Local Government Area.
The violent attack, which took place early on Saturday, June 14, and is suspected to have been carried out by armed herders, has once again stirred unrest across the state.
Criticism intensified after the governor’s official response, which was posted on Facebook more than a day after the incident. The message, released through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, has been widely condemned—particularly by youth groups, who labeled the statement as “insensitive,” “too late,” and lacking substance.
“You can build all the roads and skyscrapers you want, but if your people are being slaughtered with no protection, then it’s meaningless,” said Terna Avaan, a resident of Makurdi. “The governor has one job, protect lives and property. On that count, he has failed us.”
In the statement, the governor expressed sorrow over the tragic event and confirmed that coordinated efforts involving both local and national agencies had been initiated to address the security crisis.
However, many residents dismissed the message as repetitive and ineffective. “It’s the same copy and paste condolence message every time. When will real action take the place of empty press statements?” asked Terver Fidelis, echoing frustration expressed by many on social media.
Humanitarian worker Benjamin Igber accused the governor of failing to take direct responsibility for the security failures. “It’s unbelievable that a reverend father would deflect responsibility onto fellow Benue citizens instead of tackling the root cause. His silence is dangerous,” he stated.
Tordue George, a communications expert, also took issue with the timing and handling of the government’s public communication. “Why should a statement about such a grave issue come 28 hours later? Mr. CPS, your sluggish and poorly coordinated communication efforts are damaging the governor’s credibility,” he remarked.
The administration, through its press office, announced that federal tactical teams had been deployed to prevent further violence. The governor also extended condolences to the victims’ families and pledged to work closely with traditional leaders, local authorities, and security forces to strengthen intelligence operations and community safety.
“The government is in constant consultation with federal and local security players to boost surveillance and preempt further attacks,” Kula noted. “Joint patrols are being intensified across vulnerable areas.”
In a show of solidarity, Deputy Governor Barr. Sam Ode paid a visit to Yelewata to evaluate the damage and reassure locals that the government is committed to restoring peace and seeking justice for the victims.
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Despite these efforts, skepticism remains among residents. Vershima Paul voiced doubts over the government’s strategy. “Federal troops alone cannot solve this. What measures is the state government taking to empower local vigilantes? People are dying daily while we wait for Abuja,” he said.
Former Senate President David Mark also condemned the violence, calling on both state and federal governments to take decisive action. “This is beyond politics. It’s about human lives. Benue has suffered enough. Security must become an urgent priority, not just another bureaucratic process,” he said.
Responding to the crisis, Hon. Engr. Thaddeus Tyopav Orkpe, a House of Representatives hopeful for the Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, expressed his sorrow over the tragedy in a separate interview.
“The heinous attack in Yelewata is heartbreaking. My deepest condolences go to the bereaved families and the entire community. This is a moment of mourning and reflection.”
As the government continues to call for calm and urges residents to avoid retaliatory actions, groups of grieving youth took to the streets wearing black in protest, demanding justice and accountability.
The CPS reiterated the government’s stance, stating that Benue remains fully committed to achieving lasting peace, justice, and a secure environment for all its citizens.
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Jonathan Nwokpor
