The recent statement by Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia firmly denies the existence of any religious genocide in Benue State. He emphasized that there is no religious, ethnic, racial, national, or state genocide in Benue, countering claims by some United States government officials who have tried to label Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern due to alleged religious persecution.

Governor Alia stressed that although there are security challenges in the state, these do not amount to genocide as per the United Nations' definitions. He also denied any jihadist activities in the state or across Nigeria, asserting that if such existed, he would be the first to raise the alarm. His remarks come amid broader scrutiny and allegations of targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria, which Nigerian officials have repeatedly denied, emphasizing that killings occur without discrimination among religious groups.

The governor also mentioned an interface with the U.S. embassy to clarify the situation on record, insisting that what is happening in Benue is insecurity, not genocide. Since 2009, Benue has faced violent attacks leading to mass casualties, but these are viewed by Alia as terrorism and insecurity rather than genocidal acts.