Gov. Alia: Insiders Aiding Killers in Fresh Wave of Benue Attacks
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has raised serious concerns about a disturbing resurgence of violence in several parts of the state. Speaking in a recent interview with Channels Television, Governor Alia revealed that the nature of the attacks suggests internal collaboration within affected communities.
“A thief does not break into a community unless someone from within shows him the way,” Alia stated, expressing frustration over what he termed as “carnage.”
According to the governor, while the conflict was initially framed as a farmer-herder crisis, the pattern of violence has drastically changed. He noted that the assailants no longer bring cattle, but instead arrive heavily armed with sophisticated weapons such as AK-47s and AK-49s.
Local Governments Under Siege Again
Governor Alia disclosed that upon assuming office in 2023, his administration inherited a state reeling from conflict across 17 local government areas (LGAs). Through intense efforts, the violence was reduced to six LGAs, including:
Gwer West
Logo
Ukum
Katsina-Ala
Apa
Agatu
Guma
Despite previous gains, the governor lamented that some of these areas especially Guma, which had enjoyed over a year of peace are now witnessing renewed bloodshed, particularly during the current farming season.
External Threats, Unfamiliar Faces
The Benue governor also highlighted the role of foreign infiltration, pointing out that some of the attackers speak unfamiliar languages and are believed to be crossing into Nigeria from neighboring Cameroon.
“They no longer speak Hausa or Fulani. Their language is foreign. This is not the typical herder-farmer issue we knew,” he explained.
Benue shares borders with Cameroon, Taraba, and Nasarawa States, making it vulnerable to cross-border incursions. Governor Alia stressed the urgency of intensified border security and community vigilance.
Benue Needs You
This crisis affects us all from food security to the future of our communities. Now is the time for citizens, leaders, and security agencies to act with unity and resolve. Stay informed, demand action from your representatives, and support organizations working to protect displaced persons and restore peace in Benue.
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