Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State recently exhibited misplaced aggression towards Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, during Obi’s planned visit to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in the state.

In response to the ongoing violence in Benue and Plateau states, Obi aimed to visit IDP camps in both regions on April 13 and 14. Known for his humanitarian efforts, Obi has long focused on education, healthcare, and aiding displaced communities.

While Obi received a warm welcome in Plateau State from Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who provided security and supported his visit to Bokkos refugee camps, including a N7.5 million donation, his trip to Benue met unexpected resistance. Governor Alia and his officials reportedly denied Obi’s request for a courtesy call, later issuing a statement that his security could not be guaranteed during the visit.

This hostility denied the displaced individuals in Benue the chance to receive comfort and aid from an influential visitor at a time of crisis. It also prevented them from benefiting from the support Obi could have provided, as he did in other locations.

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Governor Alia’s response is both surprising and disappointing. It was aggressive, unwarranted, and driven by political pettiness. The decision, especially coming from a Catholic priest, aimed at another devout Catholic like Obi, lacked rationality and maturity.

Benue State has endured repeated attacks by Fulani herdsmen, leading to over 6,000 deaths over the past decade. The state’s numerous IDP camps and the displacement of about 20,000 people highlight the extent of the crisis.

While the Federal Government has failed to adequately protect Benue citizens, Governor Alia’s inability to act as the state’s Chief Security Officer has exacerbated the situation. Rather than obstructing the efforts of public-spirited individuals like Obi, Alia should have welcomed their support for the displaced people of his state.

Even if Obi’s humanitarian actions were politically motivated, what harm does that cause? Leaders should prioritize the welfare of their people over petty politics, as Governor Mutfwang of Plateau demonstrated.