Benue Gov Alia Assures Prompt Response to Herdsmen Attacks

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has assured residents that his administration is responding swiftly to the recent wave of violent attacks by suspected armed herders across the state.

Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Alia acknowledged the challenges facing security agencies but stressed that the military has continued to offer support despite being overstretched.

Benue State has in recent weeks witnessed renewed attacks allegedly perpetrated by herders.

Just days ago, over 200 people were reportedly killed during an assault on Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area.

Similarly, on Sunday night, suspected herders launched another deadly attack on Tse Yange, a Tiv-dominated community in Obi Local Government Area of neighbouring Nasarawa State. The attackers reportedly killed the village head and abducted several residents during the raid.

Commenting on the security situation, Governor Alia said:
“There have been very prompt responses to the attacks we’ve been experiencing. If we leave sentiments out of this equation, we will better appreciate the narrative.

“Granted that the military is stretched—I am not making excuses for them—but we have received enormous support.

“You can truly understand the situation if you are in the state and are aware of the different stages and levels of attacks we have faced. There have been very prompt responses,” the governor maintained.

He assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with federal security agencies, is working tirelessly to safeguard lives and property amid the escalating tension.