Benue Governor Denies Religious Genocide Claims, Emphasizes Security Situation Amid Scrutiny

Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia refutes claims of religious genocide in the state, highlighting the persistent insecurity that does not meet the international definition of genocide. He addresses concerns of alleged persecution of Christians, emphasizing that the insecurity affects both Christian and Muslim communities without discrimination.

Governor Alia dismisses claims of a jihad in Nigeria, stating that extremist groups seek to establish local Islamic states based on distorted interpretations of the Quran. The security landscape in Nigeria is further complicated by banditry, weak governance, and resource competition.

SGF George Akum stresses that insurgency and banditry are primarily driven by economic factors rather than religion, calling for unity against violent groups.