Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has raised an alarm, declaring that the state is under a security siege as violent attacks by unknown assailants continue to plague local communities. In an emotional appeal to the public, Alia urged residents to be more vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies in order to curb the ongoing attacks.
Governor Alia made this statement on Sunday during a Mass at the Chapel of Grace in the Government House, Makurdi. Speaking to a congregation of citizens and state officials, Alia emphasized the collective responsibility of the people of Benue in safeguarding their communities from invaders and criminals.
“We are under siege as a state, we are under attack. Those who are attacking us have a face, they have a mission, and their mission is to occupy our land. This is extremely unacceptable,” Governor Alia declared, underscoring the gravity of the security situation in the state.
In recent months, Benue State has been grappling with a wave of violent attacks by armed groups, suspected to be from external forces seeking to take over local territories. These attackers have been linked to various forms of criminal activity, including killings, destruction of property, and displacement of people.
Governor Alia’s remarks are part of a broader effort to raise awareness about the escalating crisis in the state. The governor stressed that it is not only the responsibility of the security agencies but also that of every citizen to assist in combating the threat. He urged the people to remain alert and to report any suspicious individuals or activities immediately to the authorities.
“If you hear something, say something,” Alia urged the public. “This will help our security agents to move quickly and stop the attackers before they can cause more harm.”
Alia’s call comes after a series of attacks on villages in the Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas, where dozens of people were reportedly killed and homes were razed. These violent incidents have intensified fears that the state’s security forces are unable to fully control the situation, prompting the governor to call for more support from the federal government.
Governor Alia has repeatedly called for federal intervention to help tackle the growing security challenges in Benue. On Saturday, he specifically requested full federal assistance to enable the state to effectively counter the armed groups that have continued to wreak havoc in rural areas. Alia’s appeal reflects the state’s struggle to contain the ongoing attacks, as the local security infrastructure appears to be stretched thin.
“We need more help from the federal government,” Alia emphasized, explaining that the state’s security forces are overwhelmed and that additional resources are needed to curb the violence. “We need the federal government to support us in our fight against these invaders.”
This call for federal assistance is not new. In previous months, Alia has expressed frustration over the perceived lack of adequate support from federal agencies, including the Nigerian Army and other security forces. As the violence continues to escalate, it appears that the governor’s concerns about insufficient resources to handle the situation are becoming more urgent.
Alia also addressed the issue of political exploitation of the security crisis. He warned politicians against taking advantage of the volatile situation to further their political interests. The governor’s comments suggest that some politicians may be using the security chaos for personal gain, either by inciting violence or by profiting from the instability.
“I invite all politicians to stay clear of these activities,” Alia said. “Don’t be part of those who are attacking us. We are aware of the situation, and we are working hard to uncover those responsible for the destruction in our state.”
Alia’s warning is a pointed reminder that the state’s leadership is actively monitoring the political landscape, and any individuals or groups attempting to exploit the crisis for political leverage may be held accountable. The governor’s call to action is meant to ensure that any criminal elements in politics are rooted out and brought to justice.
In a firm statement, Governor Alia condemned all forms of criminality, regardless of the perpetrators’ ethnicity or religion. He made it clear that the violence that is engulfing Benue should not be excused by the identity or background of the attackers.
“A terrorist is a terrorist, irrespective of his ethnicity or religion,” Alia declared. “Criminality is criminality, period! Anyone who engages in criminal activity is a terrorist, and they should not be allowed to thrive in our society.”
This strong stance underscores Alia’s commitment to ensuring that the rule of law is upheld in Benue State. By calling on the people to help identify criminals and provide valuable information to security agencies, the governor is rallying his citizens to stand united in the fight against crime.
In his address, Alia also expressed deep sorrow over the recent loss of life in the state, particularly during the Holy Week, when many innocent people were killed in the attacks on Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas. He appealed to the people of Benue to pray for the repose of the souls of those who have been killed, and to offer solidarity to the grieving families.
“As we celebrate the death and resurrection of Christ, let us remember those who have lost their lives in these senseless attacks. We must pray for the repose of their souls,” Alia said. “Let us also stand together as a state, support the families affected, and work towards bringing peace back to our communities.”
The governor’s plea is not just a call for prayer, but also a reminder that the people of Benue must remain resolute in the face of adversity. While the security situation remains dire, Alia’s message is one of hope and resilience.
Governor Alia concluded his remarks with a message of hope, urging the people not to be weighed down by the ongoing violence. He assured them that his administration would continue to take all necessary steps to restore peace to Benue State.
“We will go to every length, every strain, to ensure that Benue State experiences peace once again,” Alia promised. “Together, we will overcome this crisis and rebuild our state.”
As Benue State continues to grapple with ongoing security challenges, the call for vigilance, unity, and federal support remains central to the governor’s strategy. The people of Benue, alongside their leaders, must now rise to the occasion and confront the security crisis with determination and solidarity.
