Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia is facing mounting criticism following his appointment of award-winning Nigerian musician Innocent “2Baba” Idibia as Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach—a move that has sparked a wave of backlash amid escalating insecurity in the region.
The announcement, made in a now-viral video shared on Wednesday, was met with cheers and applause from members of the governor’s cabinet. Governor Alia, visibly enthusiastic, lauded 2Baba for his enduring contributions to the entertainment industry and his philanthropic work, both within Benue and across Nigeria.
“You’ve made remarkable contributions across various sectors, not just in Benue but nationally and internationally,” Alia said during the announcement. He also commended the music icon for his public endorsement ahead of the 2027 general elections, noting that 2Baba’s influence could be instrumental in promoting unity and civic engagement.
While the governor expressed confidence in the artist’s ability to support grassroots initiatives and boost the state’s cultural presence, the timing of the appointment has provoked outrage, particularly across social media platforms.
Critics argue that the decision appears tone-deaf in light of the persistent violence and deadly attacks in Benue communities, especially those attributed to suspected Fulani herdsmen. With dozens of lives lost in recent weeks and thousands displaced, many residents and commentators have voiced frustration that government focus seems diverted from urgent security challenges.
“This is not the time for celebrity appointments,” one commenter wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “We are burying our people every week. What we need is protection, not entertainment.”
Others questioned whether the appointment was politically motivated, especially given the governor’s reference to 2Baba’s early endorsement for 2027.
Despite the backlash, some supporters defended the move, highlighting 2Baba’s longstanding advocacy for peace and his efforts through the 2Baba Foundation, which has previously launched campaigns against violence and voter apathy.
The Benue State government has yet to respond officially to the criticism. Meanwhile, pressure is mounting for the administration to prioritize security and provide a more detailed roadmap for addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis in affected areas.
As the debate intensifies, Governor Alia’s leadership is under fresh scrutiny, with many questioning whether symbolic gestures like this appointment can coexist with the urgent realities of a state in distress.
