(DDM) – Catholic priests in Benue State have openly rejected Governor Samuel Alia’s assertion that the ongoing violence in the state does not constitute genocide.
DDM gathered that the clergy described the attacks, killings, and destruction of property as systematic and targeted, bearing all the hallmarks of a calculated genocide.
They warned that dismissing the reality on the ground risks further escalation of violence and endangers innocent lives.
The priests called for urgent intervention by federal authorities and security agencies to protect communities from repeated attacks.
They emphasised that hundreds of lives have been lost in recent months, with entire villages burned and displaced residents struggling for survival.
According to the clergy, the violence predominantly targets farmers and rural communities, suggesting a pattern consistent with ethnic and communal persecution.
The priests argued that denial by government officials undermines accountability and emboldens perpetrators of these atrocities.
They urged the governor to acknowledge the severity of the crisis and collaborate with national and international bodies to halt the killings.
Observers say Benue State has a long history of communal clashes, often over land, resources, and ethnic divisions, but recent incidents suggest a more organized pattern.
Reports indicate that attackers, often armed herders or unidentified groups, have repeatedly invaded villages, leaving destruction in their wake.
The Catholic Church in the region has documented incidents, calling attention to the humanitarian and security crises unfolding across the state.
The priests stressed that beyond loss of life, the attacks have displaced thousands, disrupted farming activities, and exacerbated food insecurity.
They highlighted that children, women, and the elderly are among the most vulnerable victims of these assaults.
Political analysts note that Governor Alia’s dismissal of genocide claims has sparked outrage among religious and civil society groups.
They argue that acknowledging the problem is a critical step toward seeking solutions and preventing further bloodshed.
The clergy also called on international human rights organizations to intervene and provide support to affected communities.
They emphasised that systematic documentation of attacks is crucial for future accountability and reconciliation efforts.
Security agencies have reportedly increased patrols, but critics claim responses remain inadequate in preventing repeated attacks.
The Catholic priests concluded that Benue’s suffering cannot be ignored or minimized and that urgent, decisive action is necessary to save lives.
They warned that failure to act now could entrench cycles of violence and create long-term instability in the state.
The situation continues to draw national attention, with calls for both government acknowledgment and comprehensive measures to protect civilians
