Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese: A Voice of Truth and Action in Benue’s Insecurity Crisis

Benue State has been gripped by continuous violence, with armed attacks displacing hundreds and leaving a path of bloodshed. While many leaders have politicized the situation, Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese, a federal politician, has emerged as a brave and passionate advocate for truth, accountability, and swift action. His contributions not only revealed Benue’s governance shortcomings, but also presented tangible remedies to slow the tide of insecurity.
For months, the Benue State government, led by Governor Hyacinth Alia, minimized the gravity of attacks, frequently presenting them as “farmers-herders clashes” rather than addressing the systemic brutality against communities. This narrative was disrupted when Hon. Agbese repeatedly raised concerns, claiming that the issue was considerably more serious, a purposeful terror campaign aimed at uprooting indigenous peoples.
His efforts culminated in a watershed moment when the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, stated unequivocally during President Bola Tinubu’s visit that the killings were not communal confrontations, but rather a deliberate land-grab by armed herders. This revelation exposed the governor’s false claims and compelled a national reckoning over Benue’s misery.
Hon. Agbese has been unwavering in keeping the state and federal governments accountable. In legislative debates, he chastised the security apparatus for its ineptitude, pressing President Tinubu to take quick action rather than permitting endless deliberations with no actual outcomes.
He emphasized the frightening incident in Otukpo, where assailants operated freely, describing it as “something only imaginable in a movie.” His determination on telling the truth, even at the risk of personal political repercussions, has made him a target of those who profit from the situation. Despite this, he remains undeterred, stating that he would rather lose everything than keep silent while lives are lost.
Unlike many politicians who merely mourn, Hon. Agbese has continuously provided remedies.
1. Improving Security Coordination: He echoed President Tinubu’s request for more collaboration between federal and state security organizations.
2. Local Government Autonomy: He stressed that the emasculation of local governments, which have been denied finances and authority, has exacerbated instability by crippling grassroots security organizations.
3. Full Implementation of Anti-Open Grazing Law: He supported the Tiv Traditional Council’s ultimatum for herders to leave Benue, arguing that ranching remains the most sustainable alternative.
4. Community-Driven Security: He called for state policing and community intelligence networks to allow for faster responses to attacks.
Hon. Agbese appeared on TVC News the day before President Tinubu’s visit to Benue, advising stakeholders to “call a spade a spade” and refrain from politicizing the debates. His worries were verified when the governor’s deceptive narratives crumbled under Tor Tiv’s scathing evidence.
While Governor Alia shifted blame and evaded responsibility, Hon. Agbese openly recognized that leaders, including himself, had failed the people. This uncommon display of accountability contrasted sharply with the governor’s deflective tactics.
The Advantages of Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese’s Contributions to Security in Benue State and Nigeria
Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese’s initiatives in Nigeria’s security situation, particularly in Benue State, have resulted in substantial policy changes and increased public awareness. His strong attitude has helped to shift narratives, demand accountability, and provide practical answers. The following are the primary benefits of his contributions:
1. revealing the true nature of Benue’s insecurity.

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– Ending Government Denialism: Prior to Agbese’s actions, the Benue State government frequently dismissed attacks as mere “clashes.” His relentless campaigning prompted a shift in the narrative, resulting in national recognition of the seriousness of the issue.
– Tor Tiv’s Revelation: His pressure helped lead to Tor Tiv’s historic revelation during President Tinubu’s visit, which revealed Benue’s systematic killings and land-grabbing goal.
2. Holding Government Accountable – Challenging Federal Inaction: By openly criticizing security agency shortcomings and pressing President Tinubu to act, Agbese influenced the federal government to reconsider its stance.

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– Exposing State Government Failures: His warnings against politicizing insecurity were confirmed when Governor Alia’s deceptive narratives failed during the presidential visit.
3. Offering practical security solutions
– Advocating for State Policing: Agbese has been a vocal supporter of constitutional revisions that would allow for state policing, potentially improving local responses to attacks.
– Strengthening Anti-Open Grazing Laws: His backing for the enforcement of Benue’s anti-grazing law has fueled calls for ranching as a long-term solution.
– Calling for Local Government Autonomy: He emphasized how weak local governments contribute to insecurity and advocated for their financial and operational empowerment.
4. Increasing national and international awareness.
– Media Engagements: His appearances on platforms such as TVC News exposed Benue’s situation to a larger audience, raising demand for intervention.
– Parliamentary Advocacy: His statements in the House of Representatives guaranteed that Benue’s insecurity remained a national legislative priority.
5. Inspiring Civic Courage and Leadership via Leading by Example. Unlike many politicians who avoid difficult conversations, Agbese’s openness to accept leadership failings establishes a baseline of accountability.
– Encouraging Citizen Participation: His outspokenness has inspired more Nigerians to demand action from their leaders.
6. Potential Long-Term Impact – Policy Influence: His ideas, such as state policing and improved security coordination, may influence future government actions.
– Preventing Future Manipulation: By demonstrating how insecurity is politicized, he has made it more difficult for politicians to manipulate facts for personal gain.
Hon. Agbese’s contributions have gone beyond hyperbole, resulting in genuine change in awareness, accountability, and policy deliberations. While long-term security improvements require ongoing efforts, his bold advocacy has established the groundwork for success. Benue and Nigeria require more leaders like him, who value truth and action over political expediency.
Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese’s unflinching dedication to truth and justice has reshaped leadership in Nigerian security debate. His courage in confronting institutional flaws, suggesting alternatives, and emphasizing humanity over politics has earned him the admiration of Benue residents and Nigerians in general.
As the nation grapples with growing violence, leaders like Agbese demonstrate that integrity and action, not grandstanding, are what the people actually require. Benue’s hope for long-term peace may rest on such bold voices refusing to let the world turn away.
Okanga 12 Disciples – Motto: Continuity and Progress
Mission: 4+4=8.