Governor Alia Accuses Benue Indigenes Of Importing Herdsmen To Cause Trouble
Makurdi, Benue State – The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has alleged that some indigenes of the state are importing herdsmen from neighbouring countries like the Niger Republic to destabilise his administration.
The governor made this claim on Sunday at the Chapel of Grace, Government House, Makurdi, while addressing the people of the state.
He said he received a security report that some Benue indigenes wrote letters inviting herdsmen to come to the state, in order to bring down his administration.
He described this as unacceptable and warned that those behind this plot would not go unpunished.
He appealed to the people to remain calm and assured them that the security agencies would ensure their safety.
He also said that the herdsmen who had come into the state would gradually return to where they came from.
He urged those who were not ready to join hands with his administration to improve the state to leave the state.
He said he was committed to ensuring the development of the state and the welfare of the people.
He thanked the people for their prayers and support, and expressed confidence in the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The governor’s statement came amid reports of renewed attacks by bandits in some parts of the state.
On Wednesday night, four people were killed by bandits at Ikobi in the Apa Local Government Area of the state.
The bandits reportedly invaded the village and shot indiscriminately at the residents.
A community leader, Atule Amodu, confirmed the incident and called for more security presence in the area.
The state government and the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria in the state were said to be on the verge of reaching a truce.
A peace meeting was held on Thursday, where both parties discussed strategies to restore harmony in Benue communities.
The meeting was attended by members of Miyetti Allah from the state, the 23 local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and security advisers to the governor.
