By Andrew Haruna | Makurdi, Benue State
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the ongoing attacks on the state, stating that the people behind the violence are not even Nigerians. He made this statement with a sense of urgency, saying, “Benue is under siege” and that the attacks have a much bigger agenda than just local disputes.
In a heartfelt interview with Channels TV, Governor Alia said the attackers speak a different language and are clearly foreign elements trying to destabilize the state. His words reflected deep concern, not only for the lives lost but also for the future of the people in Benue.
“These attackers aren’t from our communities. They don’t speak our languages. We’re dealing with something far beyond just local conflict; this is an invasion. Benue is under siege, and we need help now,” Governor Alia explained.
Land Grabbing and Foreign Aggression
The governor believes the continuous attacks are not just random acts of violence but part of a larger, well-coordinated plan to seize the state’s fertile agricultural lands. According to him, these forces have been using sophisticated tactics and, in some cases, enforcing extremist laws, which suggests a much more organized effort than simple local banditry.
“It’s clear to us now that this is about more than just violence for survival. The aim is to take our land, our heritage. This is not something we can handle alone,” Alia added.
The Need for Federal Intervention
Governor Alia has called on federal authorities to intervene immediately. With an increasing number of attacks, the situation has reached a breaking point, and the people of Benue need help. Alia has asked for heightened security measures, including a more robust security presence to protect the people, especially in areas where the attacks are most concentrated.
“We need help from the federal government. Our people are suffering, and we are watching our land being taken over by forces beyond our control,” the governor said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Governor Alia also urged local leaders and community members to come together and work with security forces to ensure the protection of Benue. His appeal for unity is a call to strengthen local resilience in the face of external threats.
Rising Displacement Crisis
The attacks have forced many Benue residents to flee their homes, leaving them in temporary displacement camps. These people are in dire need of aid, and Alia has called for humanitarian assistance to support the displaced families. Many are struggling with the harsh realities of shelter, food, and medical care.
“We have families who have lost everything. They need our help, and they need it now. We must act quickly before things get worse,” Alia said.
A Call for Unity and Action
Despite the severity of the crisis, Governor Alia has urged the people of Benue to remain united. He believes that only by working together can they face this threat and protect their homes.
“This is a moment for all of us to stand together. We cannot let these attackers take what belongs to us. We will fight for our land and for the future of our children,” Alia concluded.
The Need for Proactive Security Measures
The governor’s call for a proactive national response comes at a time when the security situation in Benue is becoming increasingly critical. He believes that national forces must coordinate more effectively to counter the foreign-backed insurgency now spreading in the state.
Governor Hyacinth Alia has made it clear that Benue is facing a serious security threat from foreign-backed attackers. His call for federal intervention, unity, and enhanced security is a plea to save his people from a grave crisis. The situation remains dire, and without a swift response, Benue may continue to face the devastating consequences of external aggression aimed at taking away the state’s land and resources.
