I am still a Reverend Father; being in governance does not take that away from me. There’s no Christian g+nocide in Benue State; we only face security challenges” — Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia

"We Don’t Have Anything like Christian Genocide Happening in Benue State" — Benue Governor, Reverend Hyacinth Alia

The Governor of Benue State, Reverend Hyacinth Alia, has stated that there is no Christian genocide in the state.

Speaking at a recent press briefing on Benue’s security situation, Governor Alia emphasized that his role as a religious leader does not conflict with his duties in government, saying, “I am a reverend father, so being in government does not take that away from me; I still remain one at the end of the day.”

He clarified that, while the state faces security challenges, they should not be labeled as genocide.

“In my state of Benue, we don’t have any religious, ethnic, racial, national, or state genocide,” Alia said. He urged referencing the United Nations’ definition of genocide when evaluating such claims to ensure accuracy.

The governor explained that insecurity in Benue has historical roots, beginning with conflicts involving farmers and gradually escalating over the years. “Yes, we have lost a number of people, and we have provided background on the challenges that date back many years,” he added.

He concluded by reiterating that Benue continues to experience security issues, but these do not amount to targeted genocide against any group. Alia emphasized the importance of measured analysis and sustained government intervention to protect communities and address the persistent security threats in the state.

Gov Alia approves implementation of unions’ demands at Benue varsityNewsGov Alia approves implementation of unions’ demands at Benue varsity.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has approved the immediate implementation of the demands made by striking workers of the Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, Benue State.

This followed negotiations between the government team led by the Secretary to the State Government, Deaconess Serumun Deborah Aber; the institution’s management, led by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simon Terver Ubwa; and the university-based unions—ASUU, SSANU, NASU, and NAAT—culminating in a Memorandum of Agreement.

The visitor to the university, Rev. Fr. Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, approved the implementation of the contentious issues that had caused industrial disharmony since 2018 with immediate effect.

This was contained in a letter dated October 31, 2025, duly signed by the Permanent Secretary (General Services) on behalf of the Secretary to the State Government.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Registrar of the institution, Barnabas Hema, he enumerated the approved demands to include “immediate and complete implementation of the newly approved minimum wage template as presented by the unions.

“Immediate payment of arrears of the minimum wage from November 2023 to date; proper placement and payment of salary entitlements to previously promoted staff of the university. This is with immediate effect, starting with October 2025 salaries.”

He said the government is committed to the payment of arrears of all deferred promotion entitlements to deserving staff.

Hema added that the accumulated promotion entitlements from 2018 would be defrayed at a later date

Shock as Governor Alia’s Aide Kidnapped by Unknown Gunmen

In a disturbing incident that has unsettled political circles, a close aide to Governor Hyacinth Alia has reportedly been abducted by unidentified gunmen.

According to Daily Post, the kidnapping occurred late Tuesday evening while the aide was returning from a private engagement. Eyewitnesses said the attackers intercepted the vehicle, forced the victim out at gunpoint, and sped away.

Since the abduction, the aide’s phone has remained unreachable, and as of the time of this report, the kidnappers have not made any contact with the family.

Security agencies have launched a full-scale investigation into the incident. Police spokespersons confirmed that a manhunt is underway, with checkpoints mounted at major entry and exit routes across the state. Surveillance footage from the area is also being reviewed in an effort to track down the culprits.

Though Governor Alia has yet to release an official statement, sources from Government House disclosed that he is deeply troubled by the development and has directed security operatives to ensure the aide’s safe rescue.

The identity of the abducted aide has not been officially disclosed, pending family notification, but sources describe him as a long-time confidant and trusted adviser to the governor.

The motive behind the abduction remains uncertain. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of political motivations, criminal activity, or personal grievances.

Citizens have been urged to remain calm and report any suspicious activity that could aid the investigation.

As the search intensifies, anxiety continues to mount, with many hoping for the aide’s safe and swift return.

Gov Alia Criticized for Plans to Erect Giant Statues of Himself in Makurdi

Reports emerging from Benue State suggest that Governor Hyacinth Alia is planning to erect giant statues of himself at major junctions in Makurdi, the state capital—a move that has sparked outrage and condemnation.

The information was first shared by Raphael Akume, the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, who confirmed the project in a social media post. For many observers, this announcement erased earlier doubts and confirmed that the self-glorifying initiative is indeed in motion.

Critics argue that the decision to spend public funds on statues amounts to a waste of resources and a betrayal of the trust of Benue people. With urgent needs in education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, and welfare, allocating funds to vanity projects is viewed as insensitive and unjustifiable.

“Governance should focus on service, accountability, and transparency—not self-glorification,” Ornguga wrote, stressing that public resources must uplift citizens rather than fuel a cult of personality.

No governor in Benue’s history—from Aper Aku to Samuel Ortom—ever named public assets after themselves while in office. Traditionally, infrastructure and projects are named to honor past leaders or notable figures.

However, Governor Alia has reportedly broken this norm by naming facilities such as the “Fr Alia Quality House” at the Quality Assurance building and the “Fr Alia Complex” at the BSUTH drug collection centre after himself. Critics warn this trend risks normalizing autocratic-style branding.


Ornguga urged Governor Alia to redirect his attention to unfulfilled campaign promises. Despite receiving increased federal allocations after fuel subsidy removal, arrears of salaries, pensions, and gratuities remain unpaid in Benue—while other states have cleared theirs.

President Bola Tinubu himself recently noted in Makurdi that governors now receive enough funds to settle such obligations without borrowing.

Governor Alia also promised to return internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes within his first 100 days in office, a pledge yet to materialize.


Critics insist that resources earmarked for the statues should instead be invested in roads, welfare programs, and debt clearance. They warn that self-glorifying ventures risk alienating citizens and reducing governance to propaganda rather than service.

“The time for politicking has passed. Governor Alia has enough funds to transform Benue. What the people need is leadership, not monuments of self-adulation,” Ornguga concluded.

AAC Party Warns Against Rising Slogan 'No Alia, No Benue' As Threat To Democracy

The African Action Congress (AAC), FCT Chapter, has cautioned against the growing use of the slogan “No Alia, No Benue”, warning that it poses a direct threat to democracy and civic engagement in Benue State.

In a statement on Saturday, AAC Chairman Ande said the slogan, promoted in support of Governor Hyacinth Alia, carries a sinister undertone that undermines democratic principles by suggesting that governance in the state is inseparably tied to one individual.

He argued that such narratives promote personality cultism, stifle dissent, and risk destabilizing the state by sowing division among citizens.

Ande urged Benue people to reject the slogan, embrace civic participation, and focus on accountability and good governance instead of elevating leaders above democratic institutions.

#BenuePolitics #Democracy #AAC

Governor Alia Celebrates VP Shettima at 59

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has congratulated Vice President Kashim Shettima on his 59th birthday.

In a goodwill message on behalf of the government and people of Benue State, Alia described Shettima as a symbol of resilience, courage, and devotion to Nigeria.

He commended the Vice President’s leadership record as former Borno State governor, lawmaker, and now deputy to President Bola Tinubu, noting his contributions to peace, unity, economic reform, and good governance.

“May God bless you with renewed strength, wisdom, and good health to continue serving our dear country,” Alia prayed.

#ShettimaAt59 #BenueState #RenewedHope

Benue Speaker Dajoh Ousted After ₦117bn Scandal Linked To Governor Alia

Benue politics has been shaken after Speaker Aondona Dajoh resigned under pressure following the Assembly’s report accusing Governor Hyacinth Alia of ₦117bn financial mismanagement, contract fraud, abuse of office, and interference in the judiciary. Alfred Emberga has been installed as the new Speaker.

#BenuePolitics #CorruptionWatch #NigeriaNews #Accountability

Benue Assembly Makes U-Turn, Confirms Law Professor As Commissioner

The Benue State House of Assembly has reversed its earlier decision and confirmed the nomination of Prof. Timothy Yangien Ornguga, a law lecturer at Benue State University, as commissioner.

Ornguga’s nomination was initially rejected last week under the leadership of the former Speaker, Aondona Dajoh. However, on Tuesday, the new Speaker, Alfred Berger, announced his confirmation alongside four other nominees after reading a fresh letter from Governor Hyacinth Alia.

Governor Alia argued that Ornguga and another nominee, James Dwem, who were earlier rejected, had not been convicted of any crimes despite petitions against them. The Assembly offered no objection when Berger confirmed them without the usual voice vote.

The House also suspended ex-Speaker Dajoh for three months over what members described as his attempt to impeach the governor. The motion for his suspension was moved by Terna Shimawua (Kyan Constituency) and seconded by James Umoru (Apa Constituency).

Interestingly, Shimawua was among lawmakers Dajoh suspended last week before resigning as Speaker. Berger, in his ruling, also reduced Dajoh’s suspension from six months to three months without putting it to a vote.

Quick Digest (For Social Media)

Benue Assembly confirms Prof. Timothy Ornguga as commissioner after earlier rejection.
New Speaker Alfred Berger overturned ex-Speaker Dajoh’s decision.
Lawmakers also suspended Dajoh for 3 months over alleged impeachment plot.
Governor Alia had defended Ornguga & Dwem, saying petitions against them lacked merit.

#Benue #Politics #Nigeria #Assembly

JUST IN: Benue Assembly Suspends Ex-Speaker Dajoh After Resignation

The Benue State House of Assembly has suspended former Speaker Aondona Dajoh for three months, accusing him of attempting to impeach Governor Hyacinth Alia.

The motion was moved by Terna Shimawua (Kyan Constituency) and seconded by James Umoru (Apa Constituency).

Notably, Shimawua was among lawmakers suspended by Dajoh last week before his resignation.

Current Speaker Alfred Berger reduced the suspension period from six months to three without a vote.

Other Assembly Decisions

The House made a U-turn by confirming Timothy Yangien Ornguga as Commissioner, despite being rejected by Dajoh last week.

Governor Alia defended Ornguga and James Dwem, saying neither had been convicted of crimes.

The Assembly also lifted suspensions on three officials:

Grace Adagba (SUBEB Chair)

Maxwell Ogiri (Otukpo LG Chair)

Michael Uper (Secretary, State Lottery Board)

#BreakingNews #BenueAssembly #Dajoh #Politics #Nigeria

Newsbrief: Benue Assembly Speaker Resigns, Berger Elected Replacement

Aondona Dajoh has resigned as Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, citing the best interest of the state. His resignation, dated August 24, 2025, was followed by the election of Alfred Berger, representing Makurdi North, as the new Speaker in an emergency plenary session that reversed his earlier suspension.

Governor Hyacinth Alia denied any involvement in the events leading to Dajoh’s resignation. Berger pledged to collaborate with lawmakers to advance the state’s development agenda. The assembly had also recently confirmed six commissioner nominees but rejected one, Timothy Ornguga, over petitions questioning his credentials.
#BenueAssembly #SpeakerResigns #AlfredBerger #BenuePolitics

Benue Assembly Backs Governor Alia, Speaker Dajoh with Vote of Confidence

The Benue State House of Assembly has reaffirmed its support for Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia and Speaker Rt. Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, passing a vote of confidence on both leaders during Wednesday’s plenary session.

The motion, raised by Douglas Akya of Makurdi South Constituency, praised the governor for respecting the rule of law and acting swiftly on the Assembly’s resolutions. He noted Alia’s dedication to improving the welfare of Benue citizens by addressing the concerns presented to him.

The lawmakers also applauded Speaker Dajoh’s leadership, commending his role in ensuring the smooth running of the 10th Assembly.

In a firm statement, the House condemned alleged attempts by “non-state actors” to destabilize the Assembly through moves to impeach the Speaker without just cause. Members declared their unwavering loyalty, stressing that any external interference in the Assembly’s internal affairs would be resisted.

The resolution underscores a united front between the legislature and executive in advancing peace and development across Benue State.


#BenueState #GovernorAlia #SpeakerDajoh #VoteOfConfidence #BenueAssembly #Leadership #PeaceAndProgress #NigeriaPolitics

Benue Governor Honours Super Falcons Star Francisca Ordega with N50M, House & Street Naming

In a grand show of appreciation, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has rewarded Super Falcons forward, Francisca Ordega, with ₦50 million, a fully furnished three-bedroom flat, and the renaming of a street in her honour.

The gesture comes in recognition of Ordega’s outstanding contributions to Nigerian football and her role in inspiring young athletes across the state and nation.

Governor Alia praised her dedication, resilience, and the pride she has brought to Benue and Nigeria on the global stage.

#FranciscaOrdega #SuperFalcons #BenueState #HyacinthAlia #NigerianFootball

News Brief: Gov Alia Orders Crackdown On Killers Of Two Benue Youths

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the killing of two Igede youths along the Awajir-Oju road, describing the attack as unjustifiable and a threat to the state’s fragile peace.

In a statement, the governor also addressed a separate violent incident in Nyifon community, Mbaikyongo Ward, Buruku LGA, allegedly sparked by a boat mishap-related dispute with youths from Mbayaka community.

Alia has given security agencies 48 hours to identify and arrest the perpetrators, emphasizing that no group has the right to invade or harm another community.

He directed full collaboration between security forces and traditional leaders to restore calm and prevent future clashes.

“Benue is achieving security stability, and I will not tolerate any actions that threaten the peace we strive to maintain,” said Alia.

Source: Channels Television

#Benue #SecurityAlert #HyacinthAlia #IgedeYouth #CommunityClashes #PeaceInBenue

Governor Alia Condemns Brutal Killings, Orders Immediate Arrest of Perpetrators Within 48 Hours

Benue State, Nigeria – Governor Hyacinth Alia has strongly condemned the gruesome killing of two Igede youths along the Awajir-Oju road, as well as a separate violent attack on the Nyifon community in Buruku Local Government Area.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the Governor revealed that the two victims were travelling from Oju on a motorcycle when they were ambushed and murdered in cold blood.

In a separate incident, youths from Mbayaka community in Kusuv allegedly launched an attack on Nyifon community following a dispute related to a boat mishap. Governor Alia described both attacks as “unfortunate and totally unjustifiable,” stressing that no individual or group has the right to invade or harm another community.

He has directed security agencies to immediately swing into action, collaborate with traditional rulers, and ensure that the culprits are apprehended within 48 hours.

Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while urging communities across the state to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement during ongoing investigations.

#GovernorAlia #BenueState #IgedeYouths #NyifonAttack #JusticeForVictims #StopTheViolence #SecurityAlert #PeaceInBenue

JUST IN: Benue Governor Dissolves Executive Council, Appoints New Chief of Staff

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has officially dissolved the state’s Executive Council and appointed Moses Atagher as the new Chief of Staff. The major shake-up marks a new phase in Alia’s administration.

#BenueState #GovernorHyacinthAlia #ExecutiveCouncilDissolved #MosesAtagher #NewChiefOfStaff

Brief: Remi Tinubu Donates ₦1bn To Benue IDPs After Deadly Attack
By Donatus Anichukwueze | Updated July 29, 2025

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has donated ₦1 billion through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to support families displaced by the deadly herders’ attack on Yelewata community in Benue State, which claimed over 100 lives in June.

During her condolence visit to the Benue State Government House, Mrs. Tinubu presented the cheque to Governor Hyacinth Alia, stating that the funds aim to help affected families rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

“As a mother, I know these are difficult times. But hope is not lost,” she said, reaffirming RHI’s commitment to “a better life for families.
#RemiTinubu #BenueAttack #IDPSupport #RenewedHopeInitiative #BenueState #HerdersAttack

Tinubu arrives Brazil for BRICS Summit.

President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to participate in the 17th Summit of Heads of State and Government for the Global South and Emerging Economic Bloc.

The block includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, also called the BRICS.

The President’s flight touched down at the Galeao Air Force Base tarmac at 8:45 pm local time on Friday, where the Galeao Air Force Base Commander coordinated the Guard of Honour.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed this in a statement he signed Saturday titled ‘President Tinubu Arrives In Rio De Janeiro For BRICS Meeting’.

Brazil’s Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Carlos Sergio Sobral Duarte, and the Deputy Minister for Trade Promotion, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Culture, received President Tinubu.

Tinubu is in Brazil at the invitation of President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva.

The Nigerian leader will attend a bilateral meeting hosted by President Lula on Saturday, July 5, ahead of the summit on June 6 and 7.

At the BRICS Summit, the President will participate in a plenary session and deliver an address on Nigeria’s ongoing reforms to reposition the economy for global competitiveness.

He will also meet with investors to capitalise on the country’s opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy.


The summit’s theme is “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.”

Deliberations will centre on health, Artificial Intelligence, governance, and Climate Change issues.

Ahead of the Leaders’ Summit, the political negotiators of BRICS brainstormed over aligning more commitments to combat socially determined diseases, artificial intelligence governance, and climate finance.

Their focus was on providing concrete solutions to the structural challenges faced by the Global South.

State Governors participating in the summit with the President are Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger).

13 ABDUCTED BENUE LINK PASSENGERS RESCUED.

Thirteen passengers of Benue Links Transport Company who were kidnapped last week at Eke in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State have regained their freedom following a coordinated rescue operation by security operatives and local vigilantes.

Naija News reports that the Chairman of Okpokwu LGA, Adah Inalegwu, confirmed the development on Sunday while speaking to Channels Television.

According to Inalegwu, the victims were rescued in batches. He revealed that two of the passengers were freed on Saturday after security personnel intensified search operations across the forested region.

He added that local youths from neighbouring Kogi State were also mobilised to support the operation, putting additional pressure on the abductors.

Inalegwu also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for providing logistical support that strengthened surveillance and tracking efforts.

The rescued passengers are currently undergoing profiling and medical checks and are expected to be reunited with their families soon.

Naija News had earlier reported that suspected gunmen, last Sunday, attacked a Benue Links commercial bus, robbing passengers and abducting several victims into the nearby bush.

The incident occurred at Eke community, along the Otukpo-Otukpa road, at about 6:30 pm, throwing the area into panic.

The attackers laid an ambush for the bus, which was conveying passengers and bore the registration number 14B-143BN.

Alia Suspends Special Adviser, Commits To Intergrity, Accountability.

The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia has directed the immediate and indefinite suspension of Mkor Aondona, Special Adviser on Documentation, Research, and Planning, following his arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged involvement in sextortion, cyberbullying, and blackmail.


A statement by his Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula said the Governor’s decision is in line with his unwavering commitment to uphold integrity, discipline, and accountability in public service.

He said any official of his administration found wanting in matters of criminality or ethical misconduct will face the full weight of the law.