The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia has rejected claims that the Federal Government has failed to assist the state in addressing persistent attacks on the state. Speaking in a televised interview, Governor Alia said the state has received “full support” from President Bola Tinubu and federal security agencies. He noted that the support had led to a reduction in the number of local governments under siege, from 17 to just three.
Alia explained that recent deployments of federal security personnel had forced armed attackers to retreat from occupied communities. He said the involvement of three specialised security units after the latest wave of violence significantly improved the situation. According to the governor, these efforts demonstrate the President’s awareness of and commitment to addressing the security challenges in Benue.
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Benue, one of Nigeria’s major food-producing states, has endured a spate of deadly attacks, widely attributed to suspected terrorists. On 15 June, at least 200 people, including military and civil defence personnel, were killed during an overnight raid on Yelewata community. The attack is one of several in recent months. In April, around 60 people were reportedly killed in Ukum and Logo LGAs, while another 42 were confirmed dead in May following attacks in Gwer West.
Governor Alia offered his condolences to the victims and their families, acknowledging the pain of those who lost loved ones, farmland, and shelter. He added that the recent visit by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, further demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
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