Benue Under Siege – Gov Alia Blames Politicians for Terror Crisis
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has raised alarm over the escalating wave of violence sweeping across the state, declaring that Benue is currently under siege by terrorists and organized criminal groups—not merely herders involved in traditional farmer conflicts.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, June 6, Governor Alia described the recent spate of deadly attacks as “well-coordinated and deliberate acts of terrorism,” which go far beyond the commonly cited clashes between farmers and herdsmen.
“We are under siege,” he said firmly. “These attacks are not random. The intelligence we’re getting shows they are calculated, planned, and executed by trained assailants.
Every day, we receive intel, and over 60 percent of it turns out to be accurate.”
The governor emphasized that the attackers operate with tactical precision and usually strike in the dead of night, leaving no trace. “This is not ethnic violence. It is guerrilla warfare. It’s terrorism,” he added.
According to Alia, the attacks have intensified in recent weeks, affecting several local government areas across Benue State and resulting in numerous fatalities and widespread fear among residents.
He further accused unnamed political figures of aiding and abetting the violence. Alia alleged that certain politicians, including some currently serving in the National Assembly, are complicit in harboring and funding these violent groups.
“These are people who should be protecting the citizens. Instead, they are reportedly paying the bills of those hiding in the bushes and supplying them with weapons and gadgets,” Alia stated.
The governor said an interim report from a judicial panel he established has already implicated several “big names,” and he expects the full report by next week.
“We constituted a panel to investigate both internal and external sources of these attacks. The interim findings are disturbing.
Some powerful individuals are not just encouraging this violence—they are sponsoring it for political gain. This is totally unacceptable,” he said.
Governor Alia vowed to take firm action once the final report is submitted, insisting that his priority is the safety and welfare of the people of Benue.
“I’m here to serve the masses, not political interests. Once I receive the full report this week, we will take decisive action to hold those responsible accountable,” he concluded.
Benue Under Siege – Gov Alia Blames Politicians for Terror Crisis