The killing of 15 residents in Efeyi Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area, has triggered a fresh political dispute in Benue State, with Governor Hyacinth Alia and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) blaming each other over the worsening security situation.
The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, has renewed concerns about persistent violence in parts of Benue, even as residents continue to call for stronger security measures to protect lives and property.
In separate statements issued on Wednesday, the PDP and its 2027 governorship candidate, Michael Aondoakaa, criticised the Alia administration, accusing it of failing to tackle the state’s security challenges. The governor, however, rejected the accusations, saying the opposition was politicising a tragic incident.
The PDP, through its Publicity Secretary, Bright Antyo, said the governor had not shown the leadership required to address the recurring attacks across Benue communities.
The party argued that leadership is measured by decisive action, empathy and the ability to reassure citizens during difficult times. According to the PDP, many residents have not seen those qualities reflected in the government’s response to the security crisis.
The opposition maintained that repeated attacks have continued to leave communities vulnerable despite government assurances.
Michael Aondoakaa, the PDP’s 2027 governorship candidate, also criticised the state government over its handling of insecurity.
He alleged that the administration appeared more concerned about responding to critics than confronting those responsible for attacks on communities.
Aondoakaa said it was unfortunate that a government facing repeated incidents of killings, displacement of farmers and destruction of communities would view criticism as a greater problem than the violence itself.
He further argued that, despite official claims of progress, attacks on communities have continued.
Governor Alia Rejects Allegations
Governor Hyacinth Alia dismissed the criticism and accused the opposition of exploiting the deaths of innocent residents for political advantage.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor said the tragedy should unite political leaders rather than divide them.
The statement said Benue people deserve responsible leadership, compassion and constructive contributions during a period of grief instead of political accusations.
Government Highlights Security Efforts
The Benue State Government maintained that it has continued to support security agencies in tackling insecurity across the state.
According to the governor’s spokesman, the administration has provided logistical support, shared intelligence, motivated security personnel and worked closely with local vigilante groups to improve security operations and restore peace.
The government insisted that these efforts demonstrate its commitment to protecting residents despite the persistent security challenges.
Renewed Calls for Stronger Security Measures
The latest killings have once again drawn attention to the fragile security situation in Benue State, where attacks on rural communities have remained a major concern.
While political leaders continue to exchange blame, affected communities are calling for practical solutions that will prevent further loss of lives and enable displaced residents to return safely to their homes.
Security remains one of the most pressing issues in the state, with many residents urging both government and opposition leaders to focus on measures that improve safety rather than political disagreements.
