Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has strongly denounced the tragic killing of two travelers in the Agan area of Makurdi Local Government Area, describing the incident as both heartbreaking and completely unacceptable. The heinous act, which occurred when the victims were passing through the region, has sent shockwaves across the state and the nation. In an official press release issued on Tuesday in Makurdi by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia conveyed his sorrow and condemnation regarding the gruesome act perpetrated by suspected hoodlums. He emphasized that Benue State will not condone such barbarism and disclosed that five individuals have already been apprehended by security agencies in connection with the incident. The governor, visibly disturbed by the development, stated, “I am deeply grieved by the senseless killing of two innocent travelers who were journeying through Benue State from Kano. Such criminal acts are contrary to the spirit of hospitality and peace for which the people of Benue are widely respected.” He further stressed the need to uphold the state’s long-standing reputation for being accommodating and peaceful, warning that a few bad actors must not be allowed to soil the collective image of the people. “We will not allow criminals to ruin the good name of our state. These perpetrators must be swiftly identified and brought to justice. It is imperative that they face the full weight of the law without delay,” Alia emphasized. Governor Alia also extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, particularly to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, as well as the grieving families of the deceased victims. He acknowledged the pain and sorrow that the loss had caused and expressed his commitment to justice and healing. “In the course of the day, I had a conversation with my brother and colleague, Governor Abba Yusuf, to express my sympathy and to reaffirm our collective resolve to ensure that this unfortunate incident does not trigger a broader security breakdown anywhere in the country,” Alia stated. He added that efforts are already in motion to contain the aftermath of the attack and that security operatives are working diligently to prevent any further escalation. He reiterated that peace and harmony remain the top priorities of his administration and that steps will be taken to reassure residents and visitors of their safety within Benue State. The Governor concluded by urging all law-abiding citizens to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and continue to be vigilant, as the state government works round the clock to maintain order and justice.
The Zone A Peoples’ Assembly (ZAPA) has issued a strong appeal to Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, urging him to declare a state of emergency on security in response to the escalating violence and widespread displacement currently plaguing many communities. During a press briefing held in Makurdi on Sunday, ZAPA President Fanen Mondo described the ongoing attacks as a series of “coordinated and deadly strikes” allegedly perpetrated by armed herders, including some he believes to be foreign mercenaries. The affected areas include Chito in Ukum, Tor Donga in Katsina-Ala, Turan in Kwande, Aôndoana in Gwer West, Yelwata in Guma, Apa, and Agatu. Mondo emphasized that Governor Alia should not merely declare the emergency, but also personally lead the state’s security interventions while actively engaging the Federal Government to combat the deteriorating situation. “What links all these places is not just the carnage but the deafening silence — a silence from those who should be speaking out and taking action,” Mondo said. He denounced what he called political indifference by state leaders, noting that silence in the face of such attacks could be seen as tacit complicity. “Remaining silent isn’t being neutral — it’s being complicit. And the citizens of Benue understand that clearly,” Mondo asserted. The ZAPA president also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to acknowledge the support given to him by the Benue people during the 2023 general elections and take swift action. He advocated for the deployment of military personnel to the affected areas and the provision of emergency relief for displaced residents. “Benue does not need a quiet leader; we need a proactive field commander who will rise to defend our ancestral lands,” Mondo concluded.
Kindly Share:
Benue State, Nigeria — Governor Hyacinth Alia has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to addressing the escalating security challenges across the state, especially in Zone C, which includes Otukpo. Strategic Meeting with Traditional Rulers and Community Leaders Governor Alia recently met with the Och’Idoma (the paramount traditional ruler of Idoma land) and other key stakeholders in Otukpo in a high-level dialogue aimed at finding lasting solutions to the persistent violence plaguing the area. During his visit, he also paid a condolence visit to the family of a young man who was brutally murdered by unidentified attackers in his home. “We are committed to implementing strategic and practical steps that will guarantee the safety of lives and property,” Alia stated.“This is the beginning of a broader dialogue, and I call on all residents of Benue to stay united and support the efforts of the state government.” Focus on Unity and Proactive Collaboration Governor Alia emphasized the importance of unity and proactive community engagement as essential tools in defeating the current wave of insecurity. He assured the people that his administration is leaving no stone unturned in the mission to restore peace across all affected communities. Rising Security Tensions in Otukpo and Environs Despite the government’s efforts, the security crisis continues to escalate. Barely 24 hours after the governor’s meeting, a Benue Links transport bus was hijacked by armed men in the Ikobi area. Tragically, two people were killed, and the rest of the passengers were kidnapped. Similarly, just the night before, a security guard at Otobi Dam was killed in an attack suspected to have been carried out by herdsmen. These violent incidents have further intensified fears and frustration among residents. Lawmaker Calls for Community Action In response to the latest attacks, Angbo Kennedy, the lawmaker representing Otukpo/Akpa in the Benue State House of Assembly, called on constituents to begin considering self-defense strategies as the government intensifies efforts to curb the menace. “Our people must be alert and take precautions. The situation calls for community vigilance while we support government initiatives,” Kennedy said. Conclusion: A Call for Unity and Vigilance The security situation in Benue State, particularly in Otukpo, remains tense. However, Governor Alia’s recent engagements signal a renewed commitment to finding lasting peace through strategic partnerships with traditional rulers, lawmakers, and citizens. You may also like: How the Nigerian Government Is Tackling Rural Insecurity Read more about Nigeria’s internal security challenges on International Crisis Grou READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
