By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Pathfinder Arewa Project (PAP) has said that the controversy following Governor Hyacinth Alia’s remarks on the killings in Benue State stems largely from a misunderstanding of his position and the emotionally charged context surrounding the issue.

In a statement on Friday in Kaduna, PAP Chairman, Abdulhamid Jakadan, said the governor’s comments—made during a National Human Rights Commission consultative forum in Abuja on November 20—were intended to emphasize accuracy and responsibility in describing the security situation. While Governor Alia acknowledged the severity of the violence in the state, he said it does not meet the legal definition of genocide, a stance that drew reactions from some groups and individuals.

Jakadan said many responses did not take into account the legal, diplomatic and policy weight that comes with applying the term “genocide.” According to PAP, such classifications typically require extensive evidence, formal processes, and may involve significant national and international implications.

“Alia’s position is not a dismissal of the suffering people have endured,” PAP noted. “It reflects the need for precision, particularly when such classifications influence policy decisions and long-term interventions.”

The organisation said that security challenges in Benue involve a range of contributing factors, including criminality, land-related disputes, banditry, tensions between farmers and herders, and vulnerabilities created by limited security resources. PAP argued that framing the crisis solely in religious terms does not capture its complexity and may hinder efforts to implement effective and inclusive solutions.

The group also emphasised that Governor Alia has consistently expressed a commitment to ensuring that all affected communities receive attention and support, regardless of background. It noted that adopting a broad, non-sectarian approach can help foster unity and support peacebuilding initiatives.

PAP further cautioned that emotionally charged interpretations of the crisis could escalate tensions or complicate ongoing government and community efforts aimed at stabilisation and recovery.

The statement commended what it described as the governor’s balanced approach to addressing insecurity, adding that such an outlook aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen security and support affected populations.

“It is possible to insist on justice, support victims, and still advocate for careful use of sensitive terminology,” PAP stated.

The group concluded that long-term recovery in Benue will depend on restoring security, supporting displaced families, rebuilding affected communities, and ensuring accountability for criminal actions.