Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has sounded the alarm over a disturbing development in the state, where, according to him, certain local individuals are orchestrating the importation of herdsmen from neighboring countries such as Niger Republic. This move, he asserts, is aimed at undermining his administration and destabilizing the state. The governor disclosed this alarming information during an address at the Chapel of Grace in Government House, Makurdi, the state’s capital.
In a late Sunday statement released by Donald Kumun, the Principal Special Assistant on Print Media, Governor Alia implored residents to maintain their composure while assuring them that security forces are actively working to safeguard the community. He revealed that these nefarious elements had gone as far as writing letters to invite the herdsmen into the state.
This revelation comes in the wake of a tragic incident where bandits launched an attack in Ikobi, Apa Local Government Area, resulting in the deaths of four individuals. The assault, which took place on Wednesday night, has heightened tensions and concerns over security in the region.
In response to the escalating violence, a peace meeting was convened on Thursday, bringing together representatives from the state government, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, local government chairmen, traditional leaders, and the governor’s security advisors. The session aimed at forging a path towards reconciliation and peace in Benue communities.
Governor Alia expressed his deep concern over the actions of these Benue citizens, emphasizing the detrimental impact of their activities on the state. He vowed that those found culpable of facilitating the influx of herdsmen for the purpose of destabilization would face the full extent of the law. The governor’s message was clear: the time for electioneering is over, and the focus must now shift to governance and the development of Benue State.
Furthermore, Governor Alia urged those unwilling to support the progress and development of the state to reconsider their presence in Benue. He reassured the public of his administration’s commitment to peace and stability, emphasizing that the security forces are prepared to ensure the safety of the populace. The governor remains optimistic that the herdsmen will eventually return to their countries of origin and that those responsible for inviting them will be brought to justice.
In closing, Governor Alia expressed gratitude to the citizens of Benue for their unwavering support and called on them to continue standing with his administration and that of President Bola Tinubu.