A Community in Distress
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has appealed for calm in Kwande Local Government Area following protests by women over the worsening security situation in the region. The protests were sparked by repeated attacks on Kwande communities by armed herders, which have left residents in fear and despair.
Governor Alia’s Assurance
In a statement released on Saturday by his spokesman, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia expressed deep concern over the attacks and assured the people of Kwande and neighboring Ukum LGA of his administration’s commitment to addressing the crisis.
“I share your pains, and I assure you that we will step up our response and prompt, too. Read my lips. The remorseless barbarity of these assailants and their sponsors will soon be a thing of the past,” the governor vowed.
A Pledge to End Herdsmen Attacks
Governor Alia reiterated his determination to rid Benue State of armed herdsmen invasions, emphasizing that the safety of residents remains a top priority. He also called on security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
“We will ensure that the state is free from armed herdsmen invasion,” he declared, while sympathizing with victims of the recent attacks.
A Warning Against Mischief-Makers
The governor issued a stern warning to individuals using his name to stir controversy in Kwande and other parts of the state. He urged them to desist from such actions, highlighting the potential consequences of their behavior on peace and stability in the region.
Why This Matters
The rising insecurity in Kwande and Ukum LGAs underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Benue State in addressing farmer-herder conflicts. Governor Alia’s call for calm and his promise of swift action reflect the urgency of the situation and the need for effective solutions to restore peace and protect lives.
What’s Next?
Residents of Kwande and Ukum will be watching closely to see how the governor’s assurances translate into tangible action. The collaboration between the state government and security agencies will be critical in addressing the root causes of the attacks and ensuring the safety of communities.
