Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has declared that the state is currently facing a serious security crisis. Speaking to worshippers after Mass at the Chapel of Grace within the Government House, Makurdi, the governor urged residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” he emphasized, calling on citizens to be proactive in safeguarding their communities. “If you see something, say something. Your vigilance can help security personnel respond swiftly and repel these invaders.”
Governor Alia reiterated his earlier appeal for full federal support to help combat the growing wave of attacks in the state. He described the situation as a siege, stating that those behind the violence have a clear objective: to occupy Benue land.
“We are under siege—our state is being attacked. These aggressors have a face, a purpose, and a plan. They pull people out of their homes and kill them just to take over our land. This is totally unacceptable,” he declared.
The governor also issued a stern warning to political actors attempting to exploit the crisis for personal gain. “This is not the time for politics. I urge politicians to stay away from activities that fuel this violence. We are putting mechanisms in place to identify and expose anyone involved in the destruction of our state,” he said.
Condemning all forms of criminal activity, Alia insisted that crime will not be tolerated in Benue or anywhere else. “A terrorist is a terrorist—regardless of ethnicity or religion. Crime is crime, plain and simple. Anyone who engages in it should have no place among the living,” he stated firmly.
Despite the challenges, the governor urged the people of Benue not to lose hope. He reassured them of his administration’s commitment to restoring peace across the state.
Reflecting on the significance of Easter, Alia highlighted the death and resurrection of Christ as the ultimate example of sacrifice. He called on citizens to pray for the souls of those recently killed, particularly the innocent victims in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas, who lost their lives during the Holy Week.