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Posted By Admin On June 15th, 2025

A fresh wave of criticism has trailed the response of Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, following the horrific killings in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area.

DAILY POST reports that the brutal attack, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 14, and is believed to have been perpetrated by suspected armed herdsmen, has reignited tensions across the state.

The governor’s reaction, issued over a day after the incident via a Facebook post signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, has drawn widespread condemnation from residents, particularly among youth groups who deemed the response as “insensitive,” “delayed,” and lacking depth.

“You can build all the roads and skyscrapers you want, but if your people are being slaughtered with no protection, then it’s meaningless,” said Terna Avaan, a Makurdi resident. “The governor has one job, protect lives and property. On that count, he has failed us.”

Governor Alia’s statement read: “Governor Hyacinth Alia acknowledges and shares in your pain and grief caused by this vicious attack on your community by criminal elements suspected to be armed herdsmen. He has directed a multi-pronged response involving both local and federal authorities.”

But many citizens say they’ve heard it all before. “It’s the same copy and paste condolence message every time. When will real action take the place of empty press statements?” queried Terver Fidelis, one of many angered residents venting on social media.

Benjamin Igber, a humanitarian worker active in conflict-prone areas, accused the governor of politicizing the ongoing security crisis. “It’s unbelievable that a reverend father would deflect responsibility onto fellow Benue citizens instead of tackling the root cause. His silence is dangerous,” he said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Tordue George, a communications analyst, faulted the government’s media strategy. “Why should a statement about such a grave issue come 28 hours later? Mr. CPS, your sluggish and poorly coordinated communication efforts are damaging the governor’s credibility,” he remarked.

The governor, through his spokesperson, announced the deployment of tactical units from federal security outfits to deter future attacks. He also extended sympathy to the victims’ families and promised collaboration with traditional rulers, local stakeholders, and security operatives to improve intelligence gathering and community protection.

“The government is in constant consultation with federal and local security players to boost surveillance and preempt further attacks,” Kula noted. “Joint patrols are being intensified across vulnerable areas.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Barr. Sam Ode visited Yelewata to assess the situation firsthand, assuring residents of the government’s resolve to pursue justice and restore calm to the troubled area.

Despite the assurances, locals like Vershima Paul remain doubtful. “Federal troops alone cannot solve this. What measures is the state government taking to empower local vigilantes? People are dying daily while we wait for Abuja,” he said.

Joining the chorus of concerned voices, former Senate President David Mark described the massacre as unacceptable and urged both state and federal governments to act decisively. “This is beyond politics. It’s about human lives. Benue has suffered enough. Security must become an urgent priority, not just another bureaucratic process,” he said.

Also reacting, House of Representatives aspirant for the Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Thaddeus Tyopav Orkpe, told Daily Independent:

“The heinous attack in Yelewata is heartbreaking. My deepest condolences go to the bereaved families and the entire community. This is a moment of mourning and reflection.”

As the state government appeals for calm and cautions against reprisals, angry youths flooded the streets clad in black, symbolizing mourning and demanding accountability.

“Benue State remains unwavering in its pursuit of justice, peace, and a secure future for its citizens,” the CPS reaffirmed.

Source: https://dailypost.ng/2025/06/15/yelewata-massacre-benue-youths-accuse-gov-alia-of-paying-lip-service-to-killings/