A social media user, Franc Utoo, has sparked controversy with a strongly worded post accusing Governor Hyacinth Alia and his associates of mortgaging Benue land and the future of the people to “Fulani Islamist terrorists.”
In the post, Utoo claimed that the primary mission of the alleged group is conquest, occupation, and entrenchment of an evil ideology. He stated that some individuals are working for the defence of faith, homeland, and future generations, warning against “moles and traitors” selling out the people for personal gain.
The post, which included a video clip of the author, has attracted significant reactions online, with many users divided along political and ethnic lines.
Such incendiary statements often heighten tension in Benue State, which has a long history of farmer-herder conflicts. No official response has been issued by the state government as of the time of this report.
Security agencies have previously warned against hate speech and incitement capable of threatening public peace.
