A wave of criticism has erupted against Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, following what many residents describe as an inadequate response to the deadly attack in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area.
The brutal massacre, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 14, allegedly carried out by suspected armed herdsmen, has left the community devastated with reports indicating that up to 107 bodies have been recovered.
Delayed Response Sparks Outrage
Governor Alia's statement, issued more than 28 hours after the incident via a Facebook post signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, has been widely condemned by residents, particularly youth groups who labeled it as "insensitive" 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."
In his statement, Governor Alia acknowledged the pain caused by the attack and directed "a multi-pronged response involving both local and federal authorities." However, many citizens expressed skepticism about these assurances.
"It's the same copy and paste condolence message every time. When will real action take the place of empty press statements?" questioned Terver Fidelis, one of many angered residents expressing frustration on social media.
Accusations of Politicizing Security Crisis
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 stated.
Communications analyst Tordue George criticized the government's media strategy, questioning why a statement about such a grave issue took nearly 28 hours to be released.
Government's Response Measures
Through his spokesperson, the governor announced the deployment of tactical units from federal security outfits to deter future attacks. He also extended sympathy to 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.
Public Reaction and Protests
Despite these assurances, locals remain doubtful. Vershima Paul questioned the effectiveness of federal troops alone: "What measures is the state government taking to empower local vigilantes? People are dying daily while we wait for Abuja."
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 emphasized.
House of Representatives aspirant for the Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Thaddeus Tyopav Orkpe, expressed his condolences: "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 have taken to the streets dressed in black, symbolizing mourning and demanding accountability. Reports indicate that protesters have blocked the Abuja-Makurdi highway in demonstration against the killings.
The Yelewata massacre represents another tragic chapter in Benue State's ongoing security challenges, with citizens increasingly demanding more effective protection from their government.
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