Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has accused his successor, Governor Hyacinth Alia, of covering up mass burials in the state to create a false impression of peace under his administration.
Ortom made the allegation on Monday in response to Governor Alia’s recent statement at NKST Church, Ikpayongo, where he claimed that attacks by armed herders had stopped since he took office.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Terver Akase, Ortom dismissed Alia’s claims, insisting that violent attacks and mass burials were still occurring in conflict-prone areas such as Ukum, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Gwer East, and Agatu.
“This administration is merely trying to hide the reality of ongoing killings and mass burials in Benue State,” Ortom asserted.
The former governor defended his tenure, highlighting his anti-open grazing policies and firm stance against herdsmen attacks, despite pressure from the federal government.
He criticized Alia for allegedly prioritizing political attacks over governance, urging him to focus on fulfilling his campaign promises.
“Governorship is not a lifetime position. Tomorrow, he too will become a former governor. Instead of attacking his predecessor, Governor Alia should focus on delivering good governance to the people,” Ortom stated.