Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has again issued a fresh warning over escalating security challenges in the state, declaring that Benue is “under attack” and urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperative with security agencies.
The governor raised the alarm while addressing worshippers at the Chapel of Grace, Government House, Makurdi. He called on residents to be proactive in reporting suspicious activities, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.
“If you hear something, say something. It will enable security agents to move swiftly and stop these invaders,” Governor Alia said.
According to a statement by his Principal Special Assistant on Media and Content Creation, Isaac Uzaan, the governor expressed deep concern over ongoing violent attacks, describing them as calculated attempts to displace communities and seize ancestral lands.
“We are under siege as a state. We are under attack. And those attacking us are not ghosts—they have faces, motives, and missions. They drag people out, they kill to occupy. It is completely unacceptable,” he stated emphatically.
Governor Alia also took aim at political actors he accused of taking advantage of the crisis for selfish gain, warning that such actions would not go unpunished.
“I want to advise the politicians: don’t be part of those attacking our people. We have mechanisms in place to uncover those complicit in the destruction of our state,” he warned.
Condemning all forms of criminality regardless of background or affiliation, he reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism and violence.
“A terrorist is a terrorist regardless of their ethnicity or religion. Crime is crime. Anyone who commits it is a terrorist and should not be among the living,” he declared.
Despite the grim situation, the governor urged Benue residents to stay strong, assuring them of his government’s commitment to restoring peace and security across the state.
Drawing on the significance of Easter, Governor Alia encouraged prayer and reflection, especially in honor of those recently killed in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas.