Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has accused Abuja politicians of orchestrating banditry and killings in the Sankera axis, including Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo LGAs. He called for a thorough investigation and reiterated his administration's commitment to securing the affected areas and protecting residents.
In a startling revelation, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has accused influential politicians in Abuja of orchestrating the banditry and killings plaguing the Sankera axis of the state, which includes Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo Local Government Areas (LGAs). Speaking after a thanksgiving service at the Chapel of Grace, Government House Makurdi, Governor Alia expressed deep concern over the recent violence that claimed numerous lives and triggered widespread fear and protests.
The Governor lamented that these homegrown bandits, influenced and supported by political figures, have taken up arms against their communities. Governor Alia emphasized his administration's efforts to extend olive branches to the bandits, offering education, skills training, and support to help them reintegrate into society and abandon their violent ways.
Despite these efforts, the involvement of political elements has complicated the situation, making it difficult to restore peace. Governor Alia called for a thorough investigation by a Judicial Panel of Inquiry to uncover the facts and hold those responsible accountable. He reiterated the government's commitment to securing the affected areas and protecting the residents from further harm.
The Governor's allegations have sparked a heated debate, with many citizens and civil society groups echoing his concerns and demanding immediate action to address the root causes of the violence and bring the perpetrators to justice.