In a recent turn of events in Benue State, former Governor Chief Samuel Ortom has accused his successor, Governor Hyacinth Alia, of politicizing the ongoing insecurity plaguing the region. Ortom expressed his shock and disappointment after watching a video clip where Alia claimed that since assuming office, armed attacks and killings have ceased in the state. The former governor also alleged that Alia spread falsehoods about him, including downplaying a 2021 assassination attempt on his life, and painting a picture of absolute peace under his administration, contrasting it with the previous leadership.
Allegations and Contradictions
Ortom, through his media aide Terver Akase, criticized Alia’s statements made at NKST Church Ikpayongo in Gwer East Local Government Area, a region heavily impacted by violence. He recounted the numerous mass burials that occurred during Alia’s tenure, particularly in areas like Ukum, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Kwande, Gwer East, Gwer West, Guma, Makurdi, Agatu, and Otukpo. Ortom emphasized the stark difference in their approaches, highlighting his own efforts to confront injustice and protect Benue lands from pastoralist encroachment, while suggesting that Alia is trying to conceal the ongoing attacks and killings within the state.
In response to Ortom’s accusations, Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alia, defended his boss by challenging the former governor to visit Guma, a community deeply affected by armed assaults during his own administration. Kula asserted that relative peace has indeed returned to the state under Alia’s leadership, despite isolated incidents in certain areas. He maintained that the governor’s claims of improved security were grounded in reality, urging Ortom to witness the resilience of the people in rebuilding their lives amidst the challenges they have faced.
Calls for Accountability and Reconciliation
Ortom called on Governor Alia to apologize to the people of Benue for his alleged insensitivity in denying the existence of ongoing attacks and the resulting trauma experienced by many residents who have lost loved ones. The former governor’s plea for accountability underscores the importance of acknowledging the struggles and sacrifices of those affected by the violence that has plagued the region for years. As the political rhetoric intensifies between the two leaders, the focus remains on addressing the root causes of insecurity and fostering unity within the community to ensure lasting peace and stability.
In the midst of these political maneuvers and accusations, the people of Benue State continue to navigate the challenges posed by insecurity, seeking reassurance and tangible solutions from their leaders. The divide between Ortom and Alia reflects a broader societal struggle for truth, justice, and effective governance in the face of persistent threats to peace and security. As the debate rages on, the voices of the people caught in the crossfire serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of political gamesmanship and the urgent need for genuine leadership that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens.
