Governor Alia orders dislodgement of armed herders’ camps in Benue forests
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has directed security agencies to immediately commence coordinated operations to dislodge armed herders’ camps identified in forests around Apa, Otukpo, Gwer-West and other parts of the state.
The directive issued on Tuesday, follows recent attacks on Edikwu-Ankpali, Ikobi and Adija in Apa Local Government Area, as well as Upu village in Otukpo LGA, which reportedly left several people dead.
Governor Alia described the renewed wave of violence against innocent communities as unacceptable and increasingly “hydra-headed”.
He noted with displeasure that the criminal elements had continued to exploit forested areas as operational bases for attacks, stressing the need to flush them out without delay.
The governor reaffirmed that the protection of lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of his administration, adding that the security operation would be intelligence-driven and sustained to neutralise threats and restore confidence in affected communities.
He also disclosed that the state government is working in close synergy with federal security agencies and would not relent until lasting peace is achieved.
Governor Alia urged residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with security operatives and provide credible information to aid ongoing operations.
He commiserated with families of victims of the attacks and reiterated his administration’s resolve to confront criminality and ensure the safety of lives and property across the state.
