Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has raised fresh alarm over the deteriorating security situation in the state, declaring that Benue is under siege by armed groups allegedly working with a clear agenda to displace communities and seize ancestral lands.
Speaking on Sunday, April 20, 2025, after Mass at the Chapel of Grace, Government House, Makurdi, Governor Alia called on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies without delay.
“If you hear something, say something,” the governor urged. “This is the only way we can empower our security operatives to respond swiftly and repel the invaders.”
Alia described the relentless attacks as deliberate and coordinated, warning that the scale of violence has reached an alarming level. He noted that the attackers are not just random criminals but organized elements with identifiable motives.
“We are under siege as a state. We are under attack. And those who are attacking us must have a face, a motive, and a strategy. They come, they drag people out, they kill to occupy. This is extremely unacceptable,” he said.
In a stern message to political actors, the governor warned against exploiting the crisis for selfish gain, hinting at ongoing investigations to identify those allegedly aiding the violence.
“I urge politicians to stay clear. Don’t be among those attacking us. We have put machinery in motion to dig deeper and uncover those involved in the destruction of our state,” he stated.
Governor Alia condemned all acts of criminality in strong terms, stressing that terrorism, regardless of the perpetrator’s ethnicity or religion, will not be tolerated in Benue State.
“A terrorist is a terrorist. Criminality is criminality. We will not allow lawlessness to define our future,” he said.
Despite the grim situation, Governor Alia encouraged residents to remain hopeful, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security. He also called for prayers for the victims of recent attacks, particularly those killed during the Holy Week in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas.
Drawing a spiritual parallel, he likened the state’s current ordeal to the suffering of Christ, urging the people not to lose faith in the face of adversity.
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