Benue Governor Accuses Lawmakers, Politicians of Sponsoring Deadly Attacks

Benue Governor Accuses Lawmakers, Politicians of Sponsoring Deadly Attacks

By IDNN Investigative Desk | North-Central Security Watch
Published: June 8, 2025

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has made a chilling allegation, claiming that serving lawmakers and Abuja-based politicians are behind the escalating wave of deadly violence plaguing the state.

Speaking during a live appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Alia said the interim report of a judicial panel of inquiry established by his administration reveals that certain high-profile politicians are sponsoring and coordinating militia groups operating across Benue.

“They’re not just instigating this. They’re funding it — buying weapons and gadgets for these killers,” Alia said.

‘They’re Keeping Killers in the Bush’

Alia stated that the attacks have evolved far beyond farmer-herder conflicts and are now a well-organized campaign executed with external support and political protection.

“These people are in Abuja — powerful, elected, and politically connected. They house these militia elements in the bush and bankroll their operations,” he said.

He promised to publish the full panel report by Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.

A Deliberate, Coordinated Siege?

Describing the nature of the violence, Alia said the attacks appear directed and calibrated, indicating military-level coordination and planning.

“We are under siege,” the governor said. “This is no longer random violence. It is designed, coordinated, and sustained.”

Fallout and Federal Implications

The accusation has sparked political uproar, especially following a rebuttal from SGF George Akume’s aide, who challenged Alia to forward the names of indicted individuals to President Tinubu and the Federal Security Council.

Analysts warn that Alia’s claims carry national security implications, as they point to the possibility of treasonous collaboration by political officeholders with armed actors.

“This isn’t just a Benue issue. If true, it shakes the very foundation of public trust in government,” said one Abuja-based security analyst.