Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
A growing controversy has erupted in Benue State following sharp criticism leveled against Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia by Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, a prominent clergyman known for his vocal stance on insecurity and killings targeting Christian communities in the region.
According to accounts shared widely on social media, including a detailed post by Daniel Gbenda, Rev. Dachomo recently visited Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area at the invitation of philanthropist Alex Babir (also referred to as Alex Barbir). The purpose of the visit was to dedicate and bless newly rebuilt houses constructed by Babir to resettle internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had been forced to abandon their ancestral homes due to persistent violence and insecurity.
During an interview surrounding the event, Rev. Dachomo reportedly accused the Benue State governor of negligence in addressing the ongoing killings and of denying what he described as a “Christian genocide” in the state. The pastor went further, offering a public prayer asking God to judge the governor accordingly.
The remarks quickly drew fierce reactions, particularly from ardent supporters of Governor Alia. Many took to online platforms to label Rev. Dachomo a “fake man of God,” with some accusing him of being politically sponsored by interests in Abuja or motivated by partisan agendas rather than genuine spiritual concern. Critics suggested his comments were politically tainted and that his sense of reasoning had been “deeply affected by politics.”
In defense of the clergyman, supporters and commentators argued that Dachomo has long been at the forefront of speaking against insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the targeting of Christians, through sermons, prayers, and public statements. They pointed out that he has consistently raised his voice on the issue long before the current administration and described the backlash as an unfortunate example of how deeply politics has polarized discourse in Benue State.
The controversy also highlighted the broader humanitarian efforts of Alex Babir, who reportedly relocated from his comfort zone to Yelewata to personally oversee the rebuilding of homes for displaced families. Some online voices expressed disbelief that even such tangible acts of goodwill could be dismissed or politicized, with questions raised about the extent to which political loyalty now influences public perception of good deeds.
The debate has reignited discussions about the state of insecurity in Benue, with references to recent killings in areas such as Kwande and other communities. Commentators lamented the lack of unity, the mocking or downplaying of tragedies in different parts of the state, and the ongoing failure to achieve lasting peace as Benue marks its 50th year of existence. Many expressed sorrow that the state remains “bleeding” and “in shambles” despite its potential.
While the incident has exposed deep divisions, it has also underscored the intersection of faith, humanitarian action, governance, and politics in Benue State, leaving observers to ponder the impact of such public confrontations on community healing and collective progress toward security and development.
