The Benue State Government has expressed worry over what it described as the continuous, cynical, and shameful weaponisation of the recent armed herders' attacks on innocent communities in the state by some opposition elements, especially the candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, the state described the action as an irresponsible act done for political gain.

It stated that the blood of citizens of the state being spilled, the grief of bereaved families, the trauma of survivors, and the many other losses require compassion, urgent action, and unity, not sarcastic profiteering.

It lamented that Aondoakaa and his followers displayed heartlessness for seizing upon human suffering to score cheap political points and level unfounded accusations aimed primarily at fanning the embers of discord when solidarity and calm are most urgently needed.

"At a moment like this, what our people expect and deserve is responsible leadership and constructive oversight.

"Confirmation by security chiefs abounds to the effect that Governor Hyacinth Alia's administration is consistently providing tangible support to security agencies through logistical assistance, intelligence collaboration, personnel motivation, and coordination with local vigilantes to protect communities and restore peace," the state government said.

It said every responsible citizen who genuinely cares for the people knows these efforts deserve recognition and measured scrutiny based on facts, not opportunistic blame designed to advance election year agendas.

"We are sincerely alarmed by a recurring pattern in which some political actors, especially those in the opposition led by Michael Aondoakaa and Herman Hembe, who for years offered neither public empathy nor substantial solutions when the violence first escalated, suddenly appear at the forefront of every crisis with political statements and accusations," the state said.

It slammed groups and individuals exploiting the suffering of children, women, elders, and ordinary families for partisan headlines.

"As a matter of fact, if, as some have insinuated, there are actors sponsoring violence to create political advantage, we strongly urge the relevant security agencies to thoroughly investigate such allegations, including any claims involving Michael Kaase Aondoakaa of the PDP and Herman Hembe of the Labour Party.

"We demand that the relevant independent security authorities investigate these allegations swiftly and transparently.

"Anyone found to be inciting, funding, or otherwise enabling attacks on innocent people to score heartless political points must be held fully accountable under the law."

The state called on all political leaders of good conscience, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, faith leaders, the media, and citizens to reject this cynical politicization and put the welfare and safety of the people of Benue above partisan interests.

It called for solidarity, facts, and action, not opportunism, highlighting that the administration of Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia stands with the victims and survivors and remains committed to working for truth, justice, and lasting peace in Benue State.