Benue State Emergency Management Agency Reveals Extent of Attacks and Displacement
The Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. James Iorpuu, has disclosed that 17 out of 23 local government areas in the state are currently experiencing various forms of attacks. In an interview with journalists in Makurdi, Dr. Iorpuu stated that only six local government areas, namely Ogbadibo, Ohimini, Konshisha, Gboko, Ushongo, and one other, have been spared from these attacks.
The persistent attacks have resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of residents, leaving many without homes and facing financial difficulties. Dr. Iorpuu, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, emphasized the need for dredging the Rivers Benue and Niger to prevent devastating floods that occur annually in Nigeria.
Recently, the Conference of State Emergency Management Agencies in Lagos has enhanced the capacity of emergency managers in Benue, according to Dr. Iorpuu. He also commended Governor Hyacinth Alia’s performance, stating that it has exceeded public expectations. Dr. Iorpuu rejected a report that rated Alia’s administration as average, highlighting the governor’s achievement of not borrowing from any financial institution since assuming office as a demonstration of purposeful leadership and accountability.
The “Divine Mandate” group, which supported Alia’s candidacy in the 2023 election, remains proud of the governor’s record in office. Preparations are underway for the group’s second-phase campaign to promote the governor’s achievements ahead of the 2027 election year. With the state facing ongoing challenges, the government’s efforts to address these issues and promote development will be closely watched in the coming years.
