There is no Christian genocide in Benue State – Gov Alia

Benue State Governor, Reverend Hyacinth Alia, has dismissed reports claiming there is an ongoing Christian genocide in the state, insisting such narratives are inaccurate and misleading.

Addressing journalists on the security situation in Benue, Alia stressed that his identity as a cleric does not blur his responsibilities as governor. “I am a reverend father, so being in government does not take that away from me; I still remain one at the end of the day,” he said.

According to him, while Benue has grappled with serious security challenges, tagging the situation as genocide is incorrect. “In my state of Benue, we don’t have any religious, ethnic, racial, national, or state genocide,” the governor clarified, urging Nigerians to rely on the United Nations’ definition of genocide rather than emotional interpretations.

Governor Alia explained that the state’s troubles did not begin today, noting that what is being witnessed is an escalation of decades-old farmer-related conflicts. “Yes, we have lost a number of people, and we have provided background on the challenges that date back many years,” he added.

He maintained that although Benue remains affected by insecurity, it is not a targeted attack on Christians or any particular group. The governor called for calm, insisting that what the state needs is continued intervention, not sensational labels.

Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace, strengthening security operations, and protecting communities across Benue.