Judul : Framing Benue Killings as Religious is Misleading and Harmful - Gov Alia
link : Framing Benue Killings as Religious is Misleading and Harmful - Gov Alia
Framing Benue Killings as Religious is Misleading and Harmful - Gov Alia
By Ayox Ojo/Abuja
Benue's Governor Hyacinth Alia has once more rejected allegations that he ever denied the deaths of Benue residents at the hands of bandits and terrorists, maintaining that his previous statements were misunderstood and presented in a misleading manner.
Speaking to reporters on Friday at Government House Makurdi, following a private meeting with Nobel Prize winner Professor Wole Soyinka, Governor Alia emphasized the significance of the public comprehending the correct context and worldwide implications of terms like genocide.
He stated that conversations regarding genocide should be grounded in the United Nations' definition and historical background, pointing out that numerous individuals employ the term casually without reflecting on its roots, its meaning, or the standards that classify an event as genocide.
As per the Governor, his previous statement about the attackers "carrying out their plans religiously" was a figure of speech—akin to saying a job was done carefully—indicating steady and methodical execution, not implying any religious connotation. He noted that the misunderstanding of his words led to unnecessary confusion.
Governor Alia stated clearly:
I have never denied that my people were killed. I am strongly convinced that we face organized bandits and terrorists who aim to destroy, injure, and kill. I have consistently—indeed, religiously—expressed that their goal is to seize land. This conflict did not start as a religious issue.
He highlighted that the crisis started with disputes between farmers and herders, later turning into widespread banditry and terrorism. He pointed out that individuals from various religious backgrounds have experienced losses, so efforts to portray the killings as driven by religion were deceptive and damaging.
The leader warned reporters not to turn the tragedy into a political issue or spread misunderstandings, encouraging the media to ask for clarification when problems occur instead of increasing conflicts through incorrect interpretations.
"You journalists are brilliant thinkers and skilled practitioners. You are not instruments of mass destruction; you are tools for building a better society. When there is confusion, a single phone call can clear it up rather than causing widespread misunderstanding," he stated.
Governor Alia stated that each death in Benue deeply affects him in his role as leader and urged the public not to downplay the pain experienced by those who have been displaced.
He emphasized again that the state faced an attack, was breached, and its inhabitants were forced from their traditional homes—this explains the significant number of IDP camps currently in Benue.
The leader also cautioned against making the crisis a one-sided topic, stating:
The circumstances involve multiple sectors. Do not simplify it to religion. Both Muslims and Christians have lost their lives. Benue is the largest Christian state in the North, so there are naturally unexpressed expectations, but let us avoid turning people's suffering into a political issue.
Regarding development issues, Governor Alia stated that his government has approved multiple major road projects in Makurdi, with full construction scheduled to start next week after the initial tasks are finished.
He praised Professor Soyinka for his sincere interest in the people and for coming to observe the advancements being achieved.
In his comments, Professor Wole Soyinka cautioned Nigerian leaders to be wary of receiving assistance from foreign nations whose involvement could exacerbate the nation's security issues.
Soyinka commended Governor Alia's progress in development, remembering that during the previous federal government, Benue turned into a center for terrorists in the North Central area.
He highlighted former President Buhari's inability to prevent the killings, pointing out that he was one of the few who openly criticized the administration's neglect.
The Nobel Prize winner mentioned that he was also in Benue to check on the educational resources he provided during a previous trip, when numerous displaced children were not attending school.
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