The Benue State Government has accused former Governor Samuel Ortom of allegedly politicising the state’s security challenges, while insisting that Governor Hyacinth Alia remains committed to addressing insecurity across the state.
The government made the claim in response to recent comments by Ortom concerning the worsening security situation in Benue. According to the state government, attempts to portray the Alia administration as inactive on security matters amount to political manipulation of a serious issue.
The administration maintained that Governor Alia has continued to engage security agencies and pursue measures aimed at protecting communities affected by attacks. It also rejected suggestions that the governor has been indifferent to the security crisis.
The exchange is significant because Benue has continued to face deadly attacks and displacement linked to conflicts involving farming communities and armed groups. The security situation has generated strong political reactions, with former and current officials frequently offering different assessments of government efforts.
The disagreement between Alia and Ortom also reflects broader political tensions in the state. While the former governor has repeatedly criticised aspects of the current administration’s handling of security and governance, Alia’s government has defended its record and highlighted measures it says are being taken to protect residents.
The government’s statement that Alia is “not sleeping” over the security situation is intended to counter criticism that the administration has failed to respond adequately to attacks. However, the competing political claims underline the need for independently verified information on security operations, casualties and the effectiveness of government interventions.
Benue’s insecurity remains a major concern for residents, particularly communities in areas repeatedly affected by violence and displacement. The issue has also attracted national attention because of its humanitarian and agricultural consequences.
Ortom governed Benue from 2015 to 2023 before Alia succeeded him. The two administrations have occasionally disagreed over governance, public resources and security.
The latest exchange underscores the continuing political dispute over how best to address insecurity in Benue, while residents remain focused on effective protection, accountability and lasting peace.
