Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has appealed to the Federal Government for immediate and increased assistance, insisting that what the state requires is meaningful support not the imposition of emergency rule.
Appearing on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Wednesday, Alia addressed the ongoing security issues in Benue, affirming that while the situation is challenging, it remains under control. He stressed that the solution lies in enhanced federal backing, not drastic political measures.
“What we need is emergency help, not emergency rule,” the governor said. “We’ve seen some progress since the Federal Government deployed two armored tanks, but that’s just the beginning. We need full-scale support to resettle displaced residents and push out the armed invaders.”
Alia alleged that many of the attackers are non-Nigerians who do not speak the local dialects, underscoring the urgency of reclaiming ancestral lands and restoring farming activities.
“They should return to wherever they came from and let our people farm in peace,” he added. “There’s absolutely no need for a state of emergency.”
Dismissing suggestions that the state’s security situation is beyond his control, Alia highlighted significant improvements under his leadership. He noted that the number of affected local government areas has dropped from 17 to six since he assumed office.
“That’s a clear sign that we’re making headway,” he said. “We just need more support to finish the job. That’s the reality on the ground.”
Advertisement