A fresh political dispute has emerged in Benue State following recent deadly attacks on communities in Otukpo Local Government Area, with Governor Hyacinth Alia and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) trading accusations over the state’s security situation.
The disagreement followed attacks on communities in the Ugboju District of Otukpo LGA, where several people were reportedly killed and many others displaced, sparking renewed concerns about insecurity in the state.
In a statement issued by its State Publicity Secretary, Bright Antyo, the Benue PDP condemned the attacks and expressed sympathy to the affected families. The party argued that the latest incident reflected what it described as worsening insecurity and called on the state government to take stronger and more decisive action to protect lives and property.
The PDP’s 2027 governorship candidate, Chief Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), also criticized the Alia administration, saying the government should focus on addressing the security crisis rather than responding to political criticism. He urged authorities to strengthen security measures in vulnerable communities and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.
Responding to the criticism, Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, rejected the allegations and accused the opposition of politicizing the suffering of the people. The governor’s office maintained that the administration has continued to provide logistical support, intelligence collaboration, and other assistance to security agencies working to restore peace across Benue State.
The governor’s spokesman emphasized that moments of tragedy require unity and cooperation rather than political confrontation, adding that the state government remains committed to working with security agencies to improve the safety of residents.
Security remains one of the major issues dominating political discussions in Benue State as preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum.
