The Benue State National Assembly Caucus has dismissed recent claims by Governor Hyacinth Alia that some of its members are behind ongoing attacks in the state, describing the allegation as “baseless, reckless, and irresponsible.”
Governor Alia, in a national television interview, accused unnamed National Assembly members based in Abuja of sponsoring violence by allegedly supporting and sheltering armed groups in the state’s bushes, as well as financing their operations.
“They are not just instigating these people,” the governor claimed. “They are harbouring them, taking care of their bills, and even buying gadgets for them.”
In a swift response delivered at the National Assembly on Thursday, the caucus rejected the accusation. Speaking on behalf of the group, Senate Minority Leader and senator representing Benue South, Comrade Abba Patrick Moro, said the governor’s remarks were unfounded and dangerous.
“This is a serious accusation without a shred of evidence,” Moro said. “It is not only misleading but also an attempt to deflect responsibility and politicise insecurity.”
The senator added that members of the caucus had consistently worked to support peace and stability in the state, and urged the governor to focus on governance rather than making inflammatory statements.
