Following his appearance on Channels Television last night, governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State has come under scrutiny over remarks made concerning the state’s security situation.
In response, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, issued a statement today clarifying the governor’s position and urging the public to remain calm.
Governor Alia, known for his unwavering commitment to the welfare and safety of Benue citizens, reiterated his dedication to combating the insecurity plaguing the state.
According to Kula, the governor has consistently employed legitimate and diplomatic means to address the ongoing violence, particularly the brutal attacks on innocent civilians by suspected herders.
Addressing a key point from the interview, the governor alleged that certain politicians are complicit in fueling local violence.
He specifically referenced criminal gangs in the Sankera axis, claiming that some of these outlaws are receiving protection and encouragement from political actors based in Abuja.
The governor made a clear distinction between two categories of attackers: foreign terrorist herders invading rural areas and local armed groups operating within the state.
Kula emphasized that governor Alia’s comments were grounded in credible intelligence and reflect the harsh realities on the ground.
He recalled that the governor’s earlier assertion that many of the attackers are foreign nationals was later corroborated by the Defence Headquarters.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed that intelligence indicated foreign herders were involved in recent attacks across Benue and Plateau states.
Furthermore, the statement noted that Governor Alia, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, has access to sensitive information, including early findings from the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the recent unrest in Zaki-Biam. While full details are yet to be released, Kula urged the public to await the official report.
Concluding the statement, Kula described the governor’s forthrightness as a sign of leadership and urged citizens to disregard misinformation and remain calm.