Metro

Backlash as Gov Alia appoints 2Baba as technical adviser amid Benue killings

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has come under fire following his appointment of Nigerian music icon, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as Tuface or 2Baba as Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach.

The announcement was made in a video that went viral on Wednesday, where members of the governor’s cabinet applauded and cheered in response to the news.

Governor Alia praised the music legend for his longstanding contributions to entertainment and humanitarian efforts, both within and outside the state.

“You have contributed a lot of quarters to different areas including outside the states,” he said.

ALSO READ: VIDEO: Gov Alia appoints 2Baba as technical adviser

He went on to appreciate 2Baba for aligning with his administration and referenced the upcoming 2027 elections.

“Let me thank you very uniquely for supporting my administration and for preparing me for 2027 and I feel it will not be out of place at all because you’re a guru of entertainment. Once you say 2face, people start dancing even without a song,” the governor remarked.

The governor expressed confidence in 2Baba’s capacity to positively impact the state through his new role.

“On behalf of the Benue State government, we want to give you some more responsibilities plus the ones you have been doing because you have the capacity to do and help us chalk the way forward to improve other people’s lives and to gain small more from your wisdom and attachments as well,” he added.

“So, I’m pleased to announce that [we are] making you Technical Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment and Community Outreach.”

However, the appointment has sparked outrage on social media, with many criticizing the decision amid ongoing violence in the state, particularly attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

One user, @realTobiAkinbo, tweeted:

“Is this man suppose to be doing this now? 😩😩😩”

Another, @Aaudochi, wrote:

“In the midst of blood of Benue people being spilled by Fulani herdsmen terrorists, all you want is entertainment?”

@iZIKUNusual posted:

“Person wey dem dey kpai kpai em people still dey give an yeye appointment .. smh🤦”

@Apostle_23 mocked the appointment, tweeting:

“Technical adviser…🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 what of head coach…”

@AdefioyeTemito1 weighed in, saying:

“The mere reason ds so called celebs don’t come out to fight for the suffering masses. They are in bed with the oppressors lowkey.”

Other reactions include:

@Player_retiredd: “Ha, Good luck to Benue people o”