President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday claimed that political enemies of Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, are working against his success amid the ongoing security crisis in the state.
Speaking during a stakeholder meeting in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, Tinubu responded to concerns raised by the paramount ruler of the Tiv Nation, Tor Tiv V, His Royal Majesty James Ayatse, who alleged that the security challenges in the state had been politicized.
"The value of human life is greater than that of a cow. And it is only when you open the door for conflict that the political enemy will come in," Tinubu stated, addressing Governor Alia directly.
The President continued with a candid assessment of political opposition: "Political enemies don't want you to succeed. Governor, are you just realizing that? No matter what I do, they will still abuse me."
Tinubu also reflected on his own experience with criticism, saying, "I read newspapers and listen to television whenever I have time. I usually see those who abuse me and the kind of abuse. I learnt lessons from the political ones too."
Security Concerns in Benue
The President's visit comes amid escalating security concerns in Benue State, which has witnessed repeated violent clashes often characterized as farmer-herder conflicts. During the same visit, Tinubu reportedly ordered service chiefs and the Inspector General of Police to pursue those responsible for killings in the state.
The International Society for Rights and Civil Advocacy (ISRCA) has previously described the Benue crisis as an indication of terrorism rather than simple clashes between herders and farmers, highlighting the complex nature of the security challenges facing the state.
In a related development during his visit, the President also reportedly discussed ranching as a potential solution to the recurring conflicts, asking the governor to provide land for this purpose.
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