Former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom has accused his successor, Governor Hyacinth Alia, of hiding mass burials in the state to create the illusion of peace under his administration.
Ortom made the claim on Monday while reacting to Alia’s remarks at NKST Church, Ikpayongo, where the governor alleged that killings by armed herders had ceased since he assumed office.
In response, Ortom’s media aide, Terver Akase, issued a statement countering Alia’s claims, stating that mass burials had continued across several conflict-prone areas, including Ukum, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Gwer East, and Agatu.
“This government is only attempting to conceal the truth about the killings and mass burials,” Ortom alleged.
The former governor defended his tenure, noting his anti-open grazing policies and firm stance against herdsmen attacks despite pressure from the federal government.
He criticized Alia for focusing on discrediting his administration rather than fulfilling campaign promises.
“Being a state governor is a temporary position. Tomorrow, he too will become a former governor. Governor Alia should focus on governance instead of attacking his predecessor,” Ortom stated.
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