Benue Crisis: Hon. Avine Agbum Calls Out Governor Alia, SGF Akume Over Alleged Dealings and Silence on Killings

Benue Crisis: Hon. Avine Agbum Calls Out Governor Alia, SGF Akume Over Alleged Dealings and Silence on Killings

A prominent Benue political figure, Hon. Avine Agbum, has raised serious concerns about the ongoing violence in the state, accusing Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, of complicity through silence and alleged undisclosed agreements with elements perceived as enemies of the state.

In a strongly-worded statement titled “Governor Alia’s Cobwebs,” Hon. Agbum expressed alarm at the growing insecurity in Benue, particularly the unrelenting attacks by suspected Fulani militias. He questioned the failure of both federal and state authorities to protect the lives and property of Benue citizens, stressing that the state’s leadership must take responsibility.

“Actions speak louder than words,” Agbum said, noting that while allegations about a covert agreement between Governor Alia and certain interests have circulated, neither the governor nor his media team has issued a denial. “Our enemies are killing our people, and the armed forces look the other way,” he added.

Agbum decried the federal government’s inaction, singling out the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, which has allegedly claimed responsibility for some attacks in Benue and other parts of the country without facing consequences.

The lawmaker also took issue with the recent declaration of an “Emir of Benue State” by the Sultan of Sokoto, describing the move as provocative and unacceptable. “This joke is being taken too far. Benue is a Christian state, and every Nigerian knows this. Is this part of the agreement allegedly reached by Governor Alia and SGF Akume?” he queried.

Agbum accused SGF Akume of historically opposing the anti-open grazing law championed by former Governor Samuel Ortom, which was widely supported by the people of Benue. He demanded explanations about Alia’s alleged meetings with northern political figures, including Nasir El-Rufai, questioning what transpired during those engagements.

Referring to President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue, Agbum expressed disappointment that neither Alia nor Akume mentioned Fulani herdsmen as aggressors during their public remarks. He commended the Tor Tiv for boldly stating the truth of what he described as “genocide against the Tiv nation.”

Calling for immediate action, Agbum urged both leaders to come together and seek lasting peace. “Benue is on fire, and only the two of you can quench the flames,” he said. He called on President Tinubu to direct the Inspector General of Police to enforce the state’s anti-open grazing law.

Concluding his statement, Hon. Agbum pleaded for understanding, insisting that his message was borne out of a deep desire for peace. “Please, no hard feelings. Our people want peace,” he wrote.

The state government and the SGF are yet to issue official responses to the statement as of press time.