Group Faults Call For Emergency Rule In Benue

NEWSDAILYNIGERIA: The Pathfinders Arewa Project, has faulted calls by the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, ( CBCN) for declaration of a state of Emergency in Benue state by President Bola Tinubu following killings in the state recently.

Reacting to a statement by CBCN on Benue killings, the group noted that no matter how good intended the call for emergency rule in the state, setting aside democratically elected leadership cannot sustain our nascent democracy.

Addressing a Press briefing at the NUJ Kaduna on Thursday, the President Pathfinders Arewa Project, Abdulhamid Abdullahi, further lamented that the killings should not be given religious and ethnic colouration as the victims cut- across faiths.

” We acknowledge the concerns raised by the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) over the unfortunate loss of lives and persistent, security challenges in Benue State.

” The anguish of affected communities is shared by all Nigerians, and any efforts to bring peace and justice to victims deserve should be supported.

” However, the recent press statement by Bishop Leonard Kawas on behalf of the CBCN contains troubling inflammatory rhetoric and dangerously politicized narratives that must be corrected.

” The security challenges in Benue are rooted in long-standing competition over land, environmental degradation, and weak state mechanisms for conflict resolution.

” Portraying the crisis strictly through a religious or ethnic lens risks further inflaming tensions and inciting division in a pluralistic society.

” The claim that there is an ongoing campaign of “Islamisation” in Nigeria is not only unfounded but also dangerous. Nigeria is a secular state, constitutionally protected to ensure religious freedom for all.

” Such assertions, made in a foreign legislature, undermine national unity and could mislead international partners about the realities on the ground.

” They also overlook the fact that victims of violence include both Christians and Muslims, with communities across the country from Zamfara, Katsina, Borno, and Plateau, among others suffering similar tragedies.

“_Calling on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Benue State, as suggested by the CBCN, is condemnable. The current situation in Benue, as grave as it is, does not call for imposition of state of emergency.

” If state of emergency was is the solution why was it not imposed on Zamfara or Katsina or Borno states where hundreds of people have either been killed or abducted by criminal elements?

” If state of emergency was not imposed on these states, why is the CBCN advocating for it in Benue State.

” The position of the CBCN smacks of partisan politics. It seems they are being sponsored by those opposed to Governor rycinth Aira, to undermine nis efforts at addressing the cnsis. Men of God are men of integrity; they should not allow themselves to be use by politicians bent at undermining the governor.

” We are of the view that focus should be on strengthening security architecture, enhancing local conflict resolution mechanisms, and promoting inclusive dialogue among all ethnic and religious groups.

” We agree that injustice must never be tolerated. However, justice should be pursued with truth, restraint, and responsibility.

” The CBCN, as moral leaders, should help build bridges rather than reinforce stereotypes or propagate divisive narratives. While the government must indeed do more, it is incorrect to claim total “inaction.”

” Security agencies have increased deployments in affected regions, while the federal and state governments have initiated dialogues and resettlement programs.

” These efforts may fall short, but discrediting them entirely is neither fair nor productive. Constructive criticism must be accompanied with proposals that foster collective security rather than deepen mistrust.

” We call on the CBCN and other religious institutions to embrace their pivotal role in fostering peace, not panic.

” Religious leaders carry immense influence and must use their platforms to unify, heal, and de-escalate – not to amplify sectarian anxieties or lend legitimacy to conspiracy theories.

” Let us stand together to demand security and justice while preserving the unity, diversity, and constitutional integrity of Nigeria.

“We salute the efforts of the Northern Governors Forum and Nigerian security for their unwavering commitment to nation peace and security in combating insurgence in many part of the country with similar problems experience by People of Benue State. We are still advocating for one North one Nigeria to remain in symbol of UNITY IN DIVERSITY For Greater Nigeria.” he added.