The Benue State Government has strongly rejected allegations by Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi that thugs linked to the state government prevented him from accessing Yelewata to sympathise with families affected by the 2025 attacks.
The state government described the allegation as unfounded and accused Obi of attempting to drag Governor Hyacinth Alia and the people of Benue into what it suggested could be an internal political dispute within the NDC.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the government denied having any knowledge of the alleged incident involving Obi.
Kula also questioned whether Obi visited Makurdi, the state capital, on Tuesday, citing what he described as previous instances of inaccurate claims about the state.
“Let it be known that Mr. Peter Obi is not a threat to Governor Alia in any way. Even if he actually visited the state, and we realized that he is a threat to anyone, the security agencies are there to handle the issue, not thugs. “The Statement read in part
Kula described Governor Alia as a peace-loving Reverend and said the governor is opposed to the use of thuggery.
He stressed that the administration does not engage, support or deploy thugs as instruments of governance or security.
According to the CPS, the governor remains committed to the rule of law and relies on recognised security agencies to maintain peace and order across Benue State.
The government also questioned how a presidential candidate could visit the state without relevant security authorities being formally informed of his movement.
Kula said such a visit would ordinarily require security coordination involving the Commissioner of Police and other relevant security agencies.
The state government said it was difficult to understand why Obi allegedly linked the incident to the Benue State Government and Governor Alia.
“If Mr. Obi is confronted with disagreements or internal political challenges within his party structure in Benue State, those issues should be resolved within the party rather than being conveniently transferred to the State Government.”He added
The Alia administration said it would remain focused on governance and would not be distracted by what it described as attempts to create political controversies.
It said its priorities remain improving security, delivering good governance and enhancing the welfare of residents across Benue State.
The government also urged the public to disregard allegations connecting it to any incident involving Obi.
“Benue remains open to legitimate visitors, political actors and all Nigerians who come in peace. “The Statement concluded
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