The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected allegations by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) that governor Hyacinth Alia has been negligent in addressing security challenges in the state, describing the claims as misleading, politically motivated and a distortion of facts.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the APC’s State Publicity Secretary, Benedict Yawe, said the opposition party’s criticism failed to reflect the realities of the state’s security situation and the measures implemented by the Alia administration since assuming office.
The APC noted that Governor Alia inherited a state grappling with persistent attacks, displacement of communities and entrenched insecurity.
According to the party, rather than engaging in blame games, the governor prioritised collaboration with security agencies and key stakeholders to tackle the challenges.
The party highlighted the establishment of the Benue Civil Protection Guard as one of the administration’s major interventions. It described the initiative as a grassroots security structure designed to complement conventional security agencies through intelligence gathering and community surveillance.
According to the APC, the state government has also continued to provide logistical and operational support to security agencies while maintaining regular consultations with military authorities, security chiefs, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to strengthen security coordination across the state.
The party dismissed the NDC’s allegation that the government had failed to support security agencies, insisting that there was visible cooperation between the state government and security institutions.
The APC further argued that security conditions had improved in several communities previously affected by violent attacks. It cited the resumption of farming activities, the revival of local markets and the gradual return of displaced persons to their communities as evidence of progress.
While acknowledging that security challenges remain, the ruling party cautioned against politicising the issue for partisan gain.
“At a time when the state is making determined efforts to consolidate peace, it is regrettable that some political actors have chosen the path of sensationalism instead of constructive engagement,” the statement said.
The APC reaffirmed Governor Alia’s commitment to protecting lives and property, pledging continued collaboration with security agencies and stakeholders to sustain peace and improve safety across the state.
The party also urged the NDC to avoid statements it said could undermine public confidence and instead support efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in Benue State.