Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has strongly denied allegations made by prominent Benue indigenes accusing him and his administration of harbouring killer herdsmen allegedly responsible for violent attacks and killings in Benue State.
The Governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Addra, addressed the media on Wednesday in Lafia, dismissing the claims as malicious, unfounded, and defamatory, while warning that legal action may follow if the statements are not retracted.
Key Allegations and Sule’s Response
The accusations stem from a viral video featuring Professor Zachary Anger Gundu, a former Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at Benue State University, who alleged that Governor Sule was “masking the killings in Benue State” and “forcefully taking over Tiv farmlands in Nasarawa State to hand over to Fulani herdsmen.”
Addra, speaking on behalf of the governor, expressed deep disappointment at what he described as a “series of false allegations” from “a supposed statesman,” emphasizing that the claims are baseless and without evidence.
“We are dismayed that Prof. Gundu could stoop so low and throw caution to the wind by making such unsubstantiated allegations against Governor Sule,” Addra said.
Governor’s Warning and Legal Threat
Governor Sule, who also serves as Chairman of the North-Central Governors Forum, has issued a warning, demanding an immediate public apology and retraction from Prof. Gundu. Failure to comply, he says, will result in legal proceedings.
“Let it be known that Governor Sule is pained by the killings in Benue and has always demonstrated empathy and concern. However, he will not allow his name or office to be dragged into falsehood without consequence.”
Call for Evidence
In a firm rebuttal, the Nasarawa State Government challenged Prof. Gundu to produce empirical evidence backing his allegations, particularly identifying the locations where these so-called killer herdsmen are being allegedly sheltered and the Governor’s involvement in such activities.
“We challenge Prof. Gundu to prove his allegations with verifiable facts. If he fails, legal action will be taken,” Addra reiterated.
Commitment to Peace
Governor Sule’s office reiterated his commitment to regional peace and cooperation, citing past efforts at fostering brotherhood and resolving cross-border tensions between Nasarawa and neighboring Benue State.
The administration described the ongoing allegations as divisive and dangerous, urging leaders and citizens from both states to focus on solutions, not sensationalism.
