IDOMA VOICE EDITORIAL: ‘No Alia, No Benue’: A Dangerous slogan that Benue must reject

Political slogans are not new in Nigerian democracy. They often emerge as rallying cries to galvanize support and inspire loyalty ahead of crucial elections. However, when such chants begin to threaten the unity, stability, and collective identity of a people, they must be confronted with absolute clarity.

The rising chorus of “No Alia, No Benue” among supporters of Governor Hyacinth Alia is one of such dangerous chants — reckless, divisive, and unacceptable.

This slogan is not just a boast of political confidence; it is a direct assault on the existence of Benue State as a collective heritage of Tiv, Idoma, Igede, and all ethnic nationalities that call the state home. It suggests, disturbingly, that without one man, Benue should cease to exist. That narrative is an invitation to chaos, a threat to public peace, and a call to anarchy.

Governor Alia must not allow such destructive rhetoric to flourish in his name.

Benue is bgger than any individual, including Governor Alia.

Benue State has existed long before Alia came into office, and it will remain ong after his tenure expires, whether in 2027 or beyond. Governance should be a unifying mission, not a tool to breed division or political militancy.

It is especially troubling that this chant comes at a time when the governor is already facing backlash over perceived nepotism, lopsided appointments, and uneven distribution of government projects.

Recently approved road contracts have seen the Tiv-speaking zones A and B receive the lion’s share, while Zone C (Idoma Nation) continues to feel marginalized and neglected.

Key appointments in the administration also tell a similar story, a pattern that fuels ethnic resentment and the painful feeling that some citizens matter more than others in their own state.

These are real grievances. Ignoring them while stoking political fanaticism is a recipe for crisis.

The chant “No Alia, No Benue” implies that any outcome short of a second-term victory for the governor could plunge the state into war. This is a dangerous mindset that powerful politicians in Nigeria have used in the past to unleash violence and bloodshed.

Benue cannot walk that path.

Governor Alia must rise above the noise, call his supporters to order, and publicly disown this reckless slogan. Leadership is not about how loudly supporters chant your name, it is measured by the peace, inclusiveness, fairness and unity you promote.

Idoma Voice calls on Governor Alia to:
– Address the growing perception of ethnic bias in governance
– Ensure equitable distribution of projects and appointments across all zones
– Publicly condemn and stop the “No Alia, No Benue” chant
– Remind supporters that Benue belongs to all its people, not one political ambition

Benue is a proud state. A land of honour. A home for all.

Benue must never be reduced to a political slogan. Benue must not be threatened into fear. Benue must not be conditioned to survive only under one individual.

Let it be known:
There was Benue before Alia.
There will be Benue after Alia.

The unity of our people must remain untouchable.