Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has raised alarm over a renewed surge in violence across the state, which he said has claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands of residents.
During a high-powered condolence visit led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Governor Alia painted a grim picture of the situation in Guma, Logo, and Ukum local government areas, describing the latest attacks as “calculated attempts” to wipe out entire communities.
“On Christmas Day, and again just four days ago on Good Friday our people were brutally attacked,” Alia lamented.
“These are not random incidents. We believe they are coordinated efforts, possibly aimed at exterminating our people,” he added.
The governor revealed that the community of Anyiin, hometown of the senator representing Benue North-East, suffered yet another attack on Tuesday, resulting in at least 11 deaths.
“As of April 17, 2025, the total population loss in some affected communities is 598,” he said grimly.
Reiterating the state’s opposition to open grazing, Alia called on the Federal Government to support Benue’s anti-open grazing law, which he emphasized is vital for safeguarding both agricultural livelihoods and ancestral heritage.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, NSA Nuhu Ribadu extended the Federal Government’s condolences and pledged solidarity with the people of Benue.
“I’m here on the directive of President Tinubu,” Ribadu said. “He has sent me to deliver his personal greetings and condolences. The entire nation stands with Benue during this trying time.”
Ribadu acknowledged the recent relapse into violence following months of relative calm and stressed the urgency of coordinated efforts to restore peace.
“Benue is not just Nigeria’s food basket; it is a symbol of our collective strength. If these attacks continue in places like Guma and Sankera, it becomes a national food security issue.”
Drawing comparisons to conflict zones around the world, Ribadu warned of the dangers posed by terrorism and banditry, and urged sustained vigilance.
“Despite these challenges, Nigeria is still holding strong. No part of this country is under full control of criminal elements,” he stressed.
“The security crisis didn’t start overnight. It took over 15 years to build up to this point, and we cannot fix it all in one or two years.”
He concluded with a firm assurance: “What matters is that this government is present, responsive, and determined. We were in Plateau. We are now in Benue. Wherever there is crisis, this administration will go.”
