Nigerian singer, rapper, and record executive Gabriel Oche Amanyi, popularly known as Terry G, has publicly called out Governor Hyacinth Alia for denying claims of religious genocide in Benue State. The controversy emerged following comments made by the governor, who also serves as a Catholic priest, about the ongoing security challenges in the state. While acknowledging the presence of violence and displacement, Governor Alia stated that the situation in Benue does not meet the international criteria for “genocide,” a statement that has sparked significant backlash from residents and observers alike.
Governor Alia’s Position on Benue Crisis
During a consultative forum organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Abuja, Governor Alia emphasized that while violence and displacement are real challenges, the incidents in Benue cannot be classified as religious genocide. He maintained that the government is actively addressing insecurity and humanitarian concerns, but he argued that labeling the situation as “genocide” would be inaccurate and potentially misleading in the international context. His comments quickly drew criticism online, with many questioning the disconnect between the lived experiences of residents and the governor’s statements.
Terry G Calls Out the Governor
In response, Terry G, a native of Benue State, expressed shock and disappointment in a viral video that has since circulated widely on social media. The singer did not mince words as he challenged the governor’s statement, questioning why authorities would deny or downplay the reality on the ground. Terry G bluntly asked: “Una go just dey cap rubbish. Reverend, for that matter, why una too dey lie? Why can’t you guys admit, for once, and apply correction? There is nothing like Christian genocide in Benue, so that means you are not hearing all the news that is going on. What kind of governor is that one now? Una go just dey cap rubbish.”
Terry G’s comments reflect growing frustration among residents who feel that the government’s official narrative fails to capture the severity of attacks faced by Christian communities in Benue State. The singer’s outspoken remarks underscore the tension between government positions and public perception, particularly on sensitive issues like religiously motivated violence.
Singer Stresses Reality on the Ground
Accompanying the viral video, Terry G shared a social media post reiterating the seriousness of the situation. He wrote: “We refuse to be quieted. The Christian community in Benue is under attack — no amount of denial can hide that reality.” His statement resonated with many Nigerians who have been following reports of kidnappings, killings, and destruction of property targeting Christian populations in various parts of the country.
The controversy arises amid rising concerns over the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria, which has gained both local and international attention. International figures, including rapper Nicki Minaj, have recently spoken about the plight of Nigerian Christians at global events, amplifying the conversation and putting additional pressure on authorities to address security challenges and human rights violations.
The exchange between Terry G and Governor Alia highlights the ongoing debate over the appropriate terminology and governmental response to violence in Nigeria. While the government continues to assert that the incidents do not qualify as genocide, citizens and observers alike are calling for more transparent reporting, protective measures, and accountability for perpetrators of religious attacks.
See below;
We refuse to be quieted. The Christian community in Benue is under attack — no amount of denial can hide that reality. pic.twitter.com/TMObiuQwGT
— Terry G 🔔 (@IamTerryg) November 20, 2025