In the face of escalating violence in Benue State, Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has urged the Federal Government to provide comprehensive assistance rather than opting for a state of emergency declaration.
During his appearance on Arise Television’s “The Morning Show” on Wednesday, April 23, he emphasized that his administration is capable of restoring peace but needs enhanced resources and collaboration from Abuja.
Alia noted that the federal government had previously supplied two armoured tanks, which greatly bolstered security efforts on the ground. “Our situation has changed for the better,” he said, “but we still need emergency assistance to drive out the armed invaders—killer herders who speak foreign languages and have no right here. Let them return to where they came from, so our farmers can safely return to their ancestral lands.”
Dismissing claims that the crisis exceeds his administration’s control, the governor highlighted a significant reduction in affected areas: “We’ve brought the number of local government areas under attack down from seventeen to six. That proves we can do this. What we need now is help—that’s a fact.”
Alia called on the Federal Government to prioritize practical support—such as deploying troops, providing logistics, and sharing intelligence—over symbolic gestures.
“What we need is absolute support,” he concluded. “Calling for a state of emergency won’t solve the problem—coordinated action will.”
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli