Benue Governor Vows Decisive Action Against Insecurity, Urges National Unity
Makurdi, Nigeria — Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has announced a decisive state-led offensive to eradicate insecurity, describing it as a critical threat that must be completely eliminated. Speaking at an Iftar dinner for Muslim faithful at the Government House in Makurdi on Wednesday, Governor Alia commended federal government support for state security efforts and stressed that lasting peace requires collective responsibility and prayer.
The Iftar gathering, held during the concurrent observance of Ramadan and Lent, was framed by the governor as a powerful symbol of interfaith unity. He noted that this rare convergence offers a divine opportunity for shared prayers to restore peace and drive socio-economic progress in Benue and across Nigeria.
Governor Alia acknowledged the significant security challenges his administration inherited but asserted a proactive and determined stance. “While insecurity remains a concern, we are resilient in our commitment to confronting it decisively,” he stated. “We have started cutting the head of this monster called insecurity, and it must die.” He urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information, assuring that strategic actions to protect lives and property would continue statewide.
Beyond security, the governor outlined an economic vision centered on transforming Benue into an attractive destination for investment. He called for collaboration among all stakeholders, emphasizing that collective love for the state must supersede personal or political differences. “You don’t need to like me. But think Benue, love Benue, and join hands to make Benue great again,” he said, inviting people of good conscience to partner with his administration.
The event underscored a message of unity amidst religious diversity. Governor Alia appealed for mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose, arguing that socio-economic recovery is impossible without national cohesion. The convergence of Ramadan and Lent, he suggested, provides a unique moment for interfaith harmony through collective prayer.
The governor’s remarks signal a dual-track approach: a hardline security push coupled with a plea for societal unity to foster an environment conducive to investment and development. With Benue long grappling with communal conflicts and banditry, the success of this strategy will depend on sustained tactical action and the level of public cooperation he has requested.
