Prof. Chidi Odinkalu’s recent reaction regarding Gov. Hyacinth Alia’s response to the ongoing violence in Benue State, unveils a disturbing insensitivity towards the casualties of these attacks.
It is therefore necessary to clarify that it will be more rational if the focus remains on the plight of the people suffering from these unprovoked terrorists attacks, rather than on sneering at the Governor and his approaches.
It is no longer news that Benue, with the appellation of the Food Basket of the Nation, is awfully bleeding from the dreadful wounds viciously inflicted as a result of relentless attacks by armed herders. Many innocent lives have been lost, and thousands of families have been displaced.
Gov. Alia, has on various occasions, openly acknowledged the limitations of his efforts in providing necessary supports through logistics and manpower to federal security forces, which are evidently overstretched.
More importantly, the Governor has not shied away from naming the perpetrators of these heinous acts. He has consistently pointed out the active involvement of criminal elements among Fulani herdsmen, who have resorted to hiring mercenaries to aid in their land-grabbing ventures. This distinction is vital; it reflects an understanding that not all members of an ethnic group are complicit in violence.
It is a statement of fact that the attacks are primarily carried out by some criminal herders, and Gov. Alia, as a well-educated priest, discerns the pitfalls of generalization. Stereotyping a whole ethnic group does not generate solutions to the crisis at hand. Rather, it enhances division and distracts from the urgent need for comprehensive support from the federal government and the international community.
In the present unfortunate circumstances, what truly matters is the reality of the terrorists attacks on the natives of Benue State. Whether the perpetrators are Malians, Nigeriens, or come from elsewhere, the focus should be on empathy and solutions rather than on vindictive criticisms.
It is quite disheartening to see personalities like Chidi Odinkalu, who should align in solidarity with the victims of these attacks, prefer to choose performative critique. This will take us away from the genuine issues befalling the people of Benue.
All we require at this trying moment is to redirect our efforts towards healing and finding effective solutions for those affected by this unrelenting violence.
Sir Tersoo Kula, MNIPR,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State.
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