Priest slams Alia over Benue genocide denial
“You Are a Total Disgrace to the Catholic Priesthood” — Priest Blasts Governor Alia Over Benue Genocide Denial
A Nigerian Catholic priest has strongly condemned Governor Hyacinth Alia’s recent remarks denying that genocide is taking place in Benue State. The priest accused Alia of betraying both his faith and his people, calling his position a “total disgrace to the Catholic priesthood.”
Governor Alia, who is himself a former Catholic priest, stated that while Benue faces serious insecurity, the crisis does not meet the United Nations’ definition of genocide. He asserted that the violence there is rooted in clashes between herders and farmers, not in targeted ethnic or religious extermination. (Vanguard News)
In his response, the priest said Alia’s refusal to acknowledge the suffering of Christian communities is morally bankrupt. He argued that the governor’s religious title gives him a special responsibility to speak out—and to protect victims—but that Alia has instead chosen to minimise their pain. For the priest, Alia’s comments represent not leadership, but a denial of reality that further wounds already traumatised families.
This clash comes amid growing national and international debate about persecution of Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Many observers are urging that the truth of what is happening in Benue be heard clearly—and that the governor’s dual role as clergyman and politician gives him extra influence to shape that narrative.
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