The Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. James Iorpuu, disclosed that attacks are currently affecting 17 of the state’s 23 local government areas. In an interview with journalists in Makurdi, he noted that only six areas—Ogbadibo, Ohimini, Konshisha, Gboko, Ushongo, and one other—have been spared. These persistent assaults have displaced hundreds of thousands of residents, leaving many homeless and facing financial hardship.
Dr. Iorpuu, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, stressed the urgent need to dredge the Benue and Niger Rivers to prevent the annual floods that devastate the region. He highlighted that the recent Conference of State Emergency Management Agencies in Lagos has strengthened the capacity of emergency managers in Benue.
The executive also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia’s performance, saying it has exceeded public expectations. He dismissed a report that rated the governor’s administration as average, pointing to Alia’s record of not borrowing from any financial institution since taking office as evidence of purposeful leadership and accountability. The “Divine Mandate” group, which supported Alia’s 2023 candidacy, remains proud of his record and is preparing a second‑phase campaign to showcase his achievements ahead of the 2027 election.
With ongoing challenges, the state’s efforts to address security, displacement, and development will be closely monitored in the coming years.
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